The pattern of slashing liberal arts programs at U.S. universities has become an alarming trend, raising serious questions about the future of education and its role in sustaining a vibrant democracy. From coast to coast, academic institutions are making deep cuts to humanities, fine arts, and social sciences programs, casting a shadow over the traditional model of higher education grounded in the breadth of human knowledge and inquiry.
In 2023, West Virginia University axed its world languages department, downsized its education department by a third, and significantly cut programs in art history, music, architecture, and natural resource management. Concurrently, Lasell University, a small private institution in Massachusetts, terminated five majors, including English and history. Ohio witnessed several of its prominent educational establishments, such as Kent State, the University of Toledo, Miami University, Youngstown State, Baldwin Wallace University, and Marietta College, announcing reductions in liberal arts programs.
However, the academic devastation in the Buckeye State is far from being an isolated incident. A cursory Google search unveils a mounting intellectual wreckage spanning the nation. The University of New Hampshire shuttered its art museum indefinitely, the University of Tulsa axed history degrees, and the chancellor of the University of Wisconsin system has directed all 25 of its campuses — collectively enrolling over 160,000 students annually — to brace for cuts in liberal arts programs.
Donald Trump revealed his deep-seated arrogance and overt manipulation with his infamous 2016 statement, “I love the poorly educated.” Electoral outcomes and survey data consistently demonstrate that the least educated Americans, particularly white ones, reciprocate this affection for him with almost cult-like devotion, viewing him as a leader, authoritarian figure, and cultural icon all rolled into one. While it may be tempting to dismiss the hillbilly-Deadhead atmosphere at Trump rallies, it is crucial to recognize how the more educated populace is undermining their nation by shunning the essential tools needed to uphold the framework of liberal democracy.
Republican officials and pundits have successfully promoted ignorance as a virtue among their supporters, as evidenced by a 2022 Pew Research survey showing that 76 percent of Republicans view colleges negatively, while 76 percent of Democrats see them positively. This highlights the danger of trusting highly educated individuals who denigrate education.
A crucial question arises: why do they advocate for widespread ignorance? Democracy relies on an informed citizenry to function properly, as without it, the door opens to despots and demagogues who exploit base emotions. Thomas Jefferson likened information to the “currency of democracy,” yet America now faces the risk of bankruptcy due to the erosion of informed discourse.
Amidst pervasive partisan discord, a disheartening consensus emerges: a growing antipathy towards the liberal arts, transcending political divides. While overt animosity towards higher education is primarily attributed to Republicans, a significant portion of students and administrators are increasingly questioning the relevance of programs deemed lacking in immediate job market applicability. Recent statistics reveal a stark reality: merely 10.2 percent of college students pursue majors in humanities disciplines, with history and political science majors comprising just over 1 percent.
Amid the relentless pursuit of success in today’s competitive landscape, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the preservation of a democratic governance system. Representative government is intricate and frequently progresses at a measured pace. It necessitates ongoing engagement with intricate ethical dilemmas, the delicate balance between personal liberties and societal obligations, and the harmonization of advancements driven by fresh insights and ideas with the merits of established norms and traditions.
Relevant articles:
– Ignorance and democracy: Capitalism’s long war against higher education
– As West Virginia University cuts humanities, I’m frustrated and afraid – The Washington Post, The Washington Post, Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT
– Valpo U faculty react as administration considers program cuts; ‘In my view, we’re selling our soul’, Chicago Tribune, Sun, 10 Mar 2024 11:00:35 GMT
– Is West Virginia University’s gutting of liberal arts a sign of more to come?, The Week, Mon, 21 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT