At some point, we concluded that thinking was insufficient. that the only things worthy of respect are those that generate profits, write software, or run on machines. The only indicator of intelligence is that “usefulness.” The growth of STEM supremacy, or the idea that math, science, technology, and engineering are superior to or far more important than the humanities, has affected more than simply how we view schooling. It altered our perception of humanity.
When someone asks, “What can you do with a humanities degree?” they are really asking, “How can your knowledge be monetized?” Because value is determined by output rather than comprehension in a capitalist society. However, it is impossible to automate or market what the humanities have to offer. They instruct us in critical thinking, questioning, and reading the world outside of data and numbers. Studying literature, philosophy, psychology, or history does not make a person “less employable” rather, it makes them more human. The sad thing is that we have confused practicality with wisdom.
Today’s educational systems promote application and memorization rather than inquiry, curiosity, or introspection. The capacity to repeat and apply what has been heard without criticism is gradually replacing critical thinking. Generations of people who are capable of reciting definitions but lack reasoning skills have been produced by us. Who can analyse a formula but not an emotion? Who can “solve for x” but not for why? Lol. And we wonder why society is split politically, emotionally, and morally, it’s because we’ve trained minds, not souls.
The fascination with STEM is more about hierarchy than science itself, even though science is important and wonderful. Value in the world we’ve created is based on what can be measured. However, the humanities serve as a reminder that certain facts are only imagined, felt, or written. A civilization devoid of philosophers, psychologists, artists, and historians’ turns into a soulless machine. The humanities are also necessary for science because no one will criticize its morality, analyse its effects, or humanize its findings. Acquiring knowledge is not a contest. Every discipline has a voice in this dialogue.
As a Humanity Babe, I believe thinking is still revolutionary. I think we need people who can ask challenging questions, sit with ambiguity, and recognize connections that others miss. The world needs more people who can reason, empathize, and envision new ways of being, not just more engineers or physicians. Considering that not everyone will become a doctor. And it’s alright. The objective was to raise conscientious people, not to create flawless experts. The humanities can help us remember how to think if the world ever seems too robotic.
I've always felt this way but never knew how to articulate those thoughts. I thoroughly enjoyed this🤞🏼❤None' buh facts!