Liberal arts degrees teach the student how to think, and without that skill, society itself begins to stagnate. An engineering degree may teach a person how to correctly instruct a bridge, but it does nothing to teach people how to interact with each other or how we ought to solve the deeper, more meaningful problems of life. STEM teaches a person how to build and what to do. Liberal arts teach why it’s done, and lays the groundwork for innovation and creativity. It allows an otherwise close-minded person to consider alternatives for approaching a complex issue.  

By proposing to cut funds to liberal arts in North Carolina, Gov. McCrory makes it clear that he doesn’t value the ability to think or consider consequences. Rather, he values short-term, ultimately meaningless results that inevitably lead to negative long-term consequences. I appreciate that Technician realizes the value of liberal arts and the folly of the governor’s plan and is willing to devote the time to speaking to the N.C. State student body.