This post includes content written by AI.

Photo bypexels-cottonbro-studio-7095726

In a recent proposal that has captured the attention of many in Mississippi, State Auditor Shad White has advocated for a paradigm shift in how the state funds higher education. White's proposal suggests stripping public funding from programs that don't align with the state's economic goals, including certain liberal arts degrees, to focus solely on fields that directly feed into Mississippi's workforce. The call comes at a time of ongoing debate around education reform and has largely been framed as a fiscally responsible move to optimize return on investment for taxpayers.

While this argument may resonate with fiscal conservatives who view higher education through the lens of immediate economic benefit, a more nuanced examination suggests that there's more to the equation. Devaluing liberal arts may appear to be a pragmatic move on the surface, but this line of thinking overlooks the broader societal and economic contributions that the arts and humanities bring.

The Proposal in Context

Shad White's recommendation comes in line with a broader conservative movement that advocates for career-focused education. According to a Mississippi Today article, White insists that taxpayer money should be spent on "majors that matter," highlighting degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) and business as priority areas. In an official statement on his website, White argues that by funneling resources into programs directly aligned with the state’s economic needs, Mississippi can improve its competitive advantage and job market.

While this sounds like a straightforward approach, the underlying assumptions require scrutiny. The definition of what constitutes "majors that matter" is up for debate, and the economic metrics by which success is measured may not capture the full scope of the arts' impact.

The Underestimated Economic Value of the Arts

A major counter-argument to White's proposal involves challenging the assumption that arts and humanities don't contribute to the economy. According to a report from the National Endowment for the Arts, the arts contributed $877.8 billion to the U.S. economy in 2017. The report states that the arts sector is an economic powerhouse, growing at a rate that outpaces the economy as a whole.

Moreover, the economic benefits of the arts are not limited to ticket sales for performances or purchases of artwork. Studies, like those from the University of Pennsylvania, indicate that the arts have a spill-over effect on local economies. For example, people attending art events often dine out, pay for parking, or shop locally, thereby boosting various sectors of the economy. This post includes Amazon affiliate links, if you purchase anything through these affiliated links, the author/website may earn a commission.

American Flag 3x5 ft Deluxe Super Tough Series, Heavy Duty Spun Polyester, All Weather US Flag USA High Wind with Embroidered Stars, Sewn Stripes, Durable United States Flags Outdoor Outside $25.99

Photo byAmazon

The Broader Impact of the Arts

Beyond immediate economic gains, the arts contribute to societal well-being in ways that are not easily quantifiable. According to a Florida Department of State report, art improves educational outcomes, enriches cultural experiences, and promotes social cohesion. They are essential for fostering creativity and innovation, skills highly sought after in all types of employment, from marketing and management to engineering and healthcare.

Let's consider the cultural capital the arts provide. By studying literature, philosophy, history, and the fine arts, individuals cultivate a deeper understanding of human experience, which contributes to empathy, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These are not only good qualities for citizens to possess but are also invaluable in almost any professional environment.

The Political Angle

It is worth acknowledging that Shad White's call to defund certain liberal arts programs is not solely an educational proposal; it is also a political maneuver. By appealing to fiscal conservatives who are part of his base, White is shoring up support for future political ambitions. But this political calculus risks compromising the long-term well-being and intellectual fabric of Mississippi for short-term gains.

At first glance, Shad White's proposal to reallocate higher education funding in Mississippi may seem like a sensible approach to improve the state's economy. However, the value of the arts goes beyond mere numbers or immediate workforce demands. The arts and humanities enrich our lives in complex ways and offer benefits that extend from the individual to the community and, indeed, to the entire state's economy.

By overlooking these broader contributions, the proposal to defund certain liberal arts degrees fails to consider the long-term implications for Mississippi. Before making drastic changes to higher education funding, it's essential to look beyond short-term economic metrics and consider the full scope of what higher education — in all its diversity — brings to the table.