12A:Why does it matter?

In this modern day and age there seems to be an ongoing fuss about a topic known as Liberal Arts Education. The first thing one might wonder is “what exactly is a Liberal Arts Education?” .If you Google it you most likely will get the Wikipedia definition which states “The liberal arts are those subjects or skills that in classical antiquity were considered essential for a free person to know in order to take an active part in civic life.” . Such a description might leave some people (like me) unsure of the important meaning and value of a Liberal Arts Education. However, after reading several pieces discussing this issue I became more familiar with its significance.

It is widely known that information and knowledge can be provided to anyone with all the technology that is readily available. Therefore, as Tony Wagner, the Harvard education specialist, suggests “what you know matters far less than what you can do with what you know”. This brings me to the most essential aspect of a Liberal Arts Education which is critical thinking. It is important for students to learn how to think and analyze different sides of subjects and issues because unlike practical skills which are easily taught on the job this is an area that requires previous experience and proficiency in. It allows students to become good at solving problems and at communicating with other individuals who might propose different opinions and perspectives. The other benefit of a Liberal Arts Education is that it provides a broad diversity of subjects which gives students the chance to explore various different types of Arts, Literature, Mathematics, Sciences, and etc. and how they relate with humanity and life significance. This in turn allows the opportunity for us to discover new interests and determine what we truly have a drive for and what we want to do for the rest of our lives.

All being said it is apparent that a Liberal Arts Education does seem to offer beneficial skills and preparation. It helps students develop ability to communicate efficiently, think critically, solve problems, and plenty more. The good thing is that not only does it advance them for their careers but it also helps them grow as a person and prepares them for life in general. The things they acquire can often be applicable in a multitude of different situations.