why are the humanities important?

An article from the Stanford Humanities Center states, “The humanities can be described as the study of how people process and document the human experience.” This quote refers to the way humans use philosophy, literature, art, music, history and language as a form of expression. These subjects allow a stronger connection between themselves, others, and the world.

The humanities are what make us human and help identify what it means to be human. Without humanity, the basis of art or philosophy would be meaningless.

An article by Sarah Churchwell states, “If we agree that the humanities do not matter, or fail to challenge this assessment, we are colluding in the very practices that reduce our humanity, that impinge upon all the other ways in which we can enrich our lives, our abilities to express our creative individuality.” This quote describes how if we as a people do not realize the importance of the humanities, our lives will not be satisfactory, and in a sense become less human. Essentially, without the involvement of the humanities in your life there is a high possibility of missing out on “the good life”.

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Want to learn more about the Stone House Center for Public Humanities and how the humanities are helping our community? Click here to learn more.

Sources:
http://shc.stanford.edu/what-are-the-humanities
https://www.timeshighereducation.com