The Humanities in American Life.

Overview & Synopsis

A profile of the humanities in American education and public life is presented, and means for strengthening them over the next decade are recommended. The humanities are examined in terms of education, cultural institutions, and public and private funding. Broad definitions of literacy, vocationalism, and the purposes of education at all levels are proposed. The capacities of museums and libraries for interpreting our cultural heritage are noted, and it is urged that the gap that often separates the humanities from science, technology, and the electronic media be bridged. Formal collaboration between educational and cultural institutions are recommended, as are new roles for private corporations, which have the greatest capacity to provide new support for the humanities. It is suggested that strengthening the humanities is essential to improve the quality of education in the elementary and secondary schools. Humanities at the postsecondary level are addressed in terms of undergraduate education, graduate education for the professions, graduate training in the humanities, and research and scholarship. Vocational education, adult basic education, and continuing education are also covered. Additionally, foundations, corporations, and the National Endowment for the Humanities are considered as sources of support. (SW)