The Liberal Arts in the Twenty-first Century: Exploring the Future of a Tradition

The western tradition of education is rooted in the concept of the "Liberal Arts." What are they, and what role does the Liberal Arts concept play in the past and future of our society? In what ways has the Liberal Arts tradition been eroded by trendy educational fashions? How is the Liberal Arts tradition threatened by forces-social, educational, and religious-that oppose this ideal? What is the unique calling and mission of the denominational, church-related Liberal Arts college?

Richard Terrell, a professor Art for 39 years at Doane College, Crete, Nebraska, addresses these issues from the perspective of his teaching in liberal arts colleges for 44 years, in which he taught courses in studio art and the history of art as well as interdisciplinary studies. A frequent panelist on issues of free expression, the arts, and issues of religion in society, Terrell offers a concerned critique of contemporary trends in higher education and a firm affirmation of the integrity of the historic vision of education rooted in the Liberal Arts ideal.