Elif Shafak’s recent article in ‘The Observer’ really struck a chord with me. It’s a powerful reminder of why the humanities – literature, arts, history, philosophy – aren’t just nice-to-haves, but essential for a healthy society.
Shafak draws on Jules Verne’s forgotten dystopian novel, ‘Paris in the Twentieth Century’, where a poet is ridiculed for his “useless” skills in a world dominated by business and technology. Verne, known for his uncanny predictions, paints a bleak picture of a future devoid of human connection and empathy.
The article challenges the notion that the humanities are in decline, citing the steady readership of fiction worldwide. It emphasises the importance of “kairos” – deep time focused on meaning – over the fleeting “chronos” of our fast-paced world. Literature, Shafak argues, nourishes our need for meaning and connection, just like food and water.
However, the crux of the issue is that the humanities are under threat. Universities are shifting focus to “high-income disciplines,” devaluing subjects that foster critical thinking, empathy, and cultural understanding. As Shafak points out, cutting funding for culture has serious social and political consequences.
Empathy, that ability to “feel into” another’s existence, is crucial for a harmonious society. Literature allows us to step outside ourselves and connect with others, fostering understanding and breaking down barriers.
Shafak also connects the humanities to broader issues, such as climate change, water scarcity, and women’s rights, reminding us that everything is interconnected. A society that values only profit and technological advancement risks losing its sense of purpose.
Verne’s father wanted him to be a lawyer, but Verne’s heart was in storytelling. We need to encourage young people to pursue their passions, whether it’s law, math, or poetry. As the saying (often attributed to Verne) goes, we need to “dream with our eyes open,” combining imagination with knowledge and critical thinking.
The humanities aren’t a luxury; they’re a necessity. They equip us with the tools to navigate a complex world, connect with others, and build a more just and compassionate future. Let’s not let Verne’s dystopia become our reality.
The ability to sacrifice your needs on behalf of others is fundamental to manhood, as is honour. 