Innovation stems from liberal arts from "summary" of In Defense of a Liberal Education by Fareed Zakaria
Fareed Zakaria argues that the liberal arts are crucial for fostering innovation in society. He believes that a broad-based education, which includes subjects such as history, philosophy, literature, and the arts, is essential for developing the critical thinking skills and creativity needed for innovation. Zakaria points out that many of the most innovative thinkers in history have had backgrounds in the liberal arts. For example, Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, credited his study of calligraphy as a source of inspiration for the design of the Macintosh computer. Jobs believed that his exposure to the arts helped him think differently and approach problems from new perspectives. Furthermore, Zakaria argues that the liberal arts encourage interdisciplinary thinking, which is essential for innovation. By studying a wide range of subjects, students are able to make connections between different fields and come up with innovative solutions to complex problems. This ability to think across disciplines is what drives progress and innovation in society. Zakaria also emphasizes the importance of the humanities in fostering empathy and understanding in individuals. By studying literature, philosophy, and history, students are able to develop a deeper appreciation for the human experience and a greater sense of empathy for others. This understanding of different perspectives is essential for innovation, as it allows individuals to see problems from multiple angles and come up with creative solutions.- Zakaria makes a compelling case for the value of the liberal arts in fostering innovation in society. By providing students with a broad-based education that includes the humanities, we can develop the critical thinking skills, creativity, and empathy needed to drive progress and innovation in the world.
