Why Science Needs the Humanities

It's welcome news that the 2016 federal spending bill has increased financing for the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, among others. Funding for these agencies and the research they support has been flat for years.

"But revolutionary innovation depends on more than robust financing," writes NYIT President Edward Guiliano, Ph.D., in a Washington Post op-ed on Feb.5. "It also requires doctors, engineers, and researchers to embrace the humanities. Indeed, the world's biggest challenges—whether economic, environmental, technological, or physical—demand critical thinking, empathy, cultural literacy, and creativity. These skills are cultivated through an education that embraces the humanities."

The desire to improve the human experience through science is often inspired by the humanities, adds Guiliano. He cites several examples across higher education, including NYIT's minor in Medical Humanities. He also references "Through the Lens," a quarterly photography contest that helps NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine students to think creatively and build sensitivity from different perspectives.

The Washington Post op-ed is part of an NYIT thought-leadership campaign designed to help generate awareness and build reputation for the university on topics of national relevance.