Letter: Liberal arts in Britain
Your views
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.As a graduate of one of the institutions described (Williams '86), I was delighted to come across Peter Smith's article ("Long live the liberal dinosaur", Education +, 17 April). Since arriving in the UK in December 1992 to take up a position as a research fellow, I have been frustrated by the lack of knowledge about or appreciation for the liberal arts system. In spite of my best efforts, I fear that my British friends and colleagues are still mystified by the fact that I arrived at university without any declared major and "wasted" my time there studying subjects of no obvious marketable value to a biologist. Equally puzzling, I suspect, is my decision to take up a teaching post at such an institution (Allegheny College) upon my return to the United States this summer.
I fear Dr Smith may face an uphill battle in his attempt to import ideas from a country more frequently associated with McDonald's and Baywatch, but I wish him every success!
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments