Global Decline of Humanities Programs

The significant decline in humanities programs at prestigious universities, including Harvard, signals a troubling global trend in education. Many institutions are cutting back on courses in history, literature, and other liberal arts subjects, reflecting a shift in focus towards STEM fields perceived as more economically viable. For instance, in Australia, the tuition fees for humanities degrees have dramatically increased to discourage enrollment, while fees for STEM programs have been significantly reduced. This prioritization raises concerns about the accessibility of humanities education, potentially reserving these subjects for wealthier students and compromising the diversity of academic inquiry.