In an era of rapid technological acceleration and scientific growth, a recurring question echoes through social media platforms and even university departments: What is the "use" of the humanities?
The answer is strikingly simple and yet incredibly profound. While science provides the tools to build the future through technology, the humanities provide the wisdom to ensure that the kind of future created is worth living in. In a world of "how", humanities provide the ever-necessary "why".
The challenges we face in the modern era cannot be solved by algorithms alone. To understand the minefields of the world's most pressing issues, we need more than data - we need perspective.
Navigating the human experience is something which only a human can do, no matter the incredible pace at which technology like artificial intelligence is moving. In order to truly understand the world we live in, we need to understand its people, and we can do this with the help of subjects like history, philosophy, music and literature. This is becoming increasingly necessary as a way to highlight marginalised voices and forgotten experiences, bringing to light new ideas which can help to shape our future.
Not only this, but critical thinking in the age of A.I. is also becoming more and more valuable. Studying humanities subjects can provide people with that insight, offering us the chance to refine our skills in applying individual judgement, detecting bias, interpreting ambiguity, and much more. All of this is especially important because, even in a world where technology is constantly advancing, machines do not possess these fundamental skills which the study of the humanities nurtures in those who take time to learn these important subjects.
But disciplines like history, literature or philosophy are not just academic subjects to be ruminated upon in dark corners of ancient libraries. They are instead a record of what human minds have imagined, accomplished and endured. They allow us to step into the shoes of others, fostering important skills like empathy. This is becoming increasingly important in a world divided by conflict, and the ability to understand different perspectives and collaborate is something which is required to bridge these differences and work together for growth.
More than this, the humanities are essential if we are to work together to ensure that our world is fair and benefits everyone. Whether it is climate justice or medical ethics, the humanities provide the frameworks to wrestle with moral grey areas, providing insight where there is no correct mathematical answer. TORCH is delving right into the heart of these issues, transcending disciplinary boundaries to bring humanities research into the centre of scientific and public life.
