Can Outcomes Save the Liberal Arts?

By Brian C. Mitchell. One of the great battles ongoing in American higher education centers on the continued vitality and relevance of a liberal arts education. Nearly every American has seen some video variation of an underemployed liberal arts graduate at a fast food window asking: "Would you like biggie-sized fries with that?" 
Historically, the defense of the liberal arts was much more high minded and cerebral. For those of us who made it, the argument was plausible and a feel good moment where we spoke of liberal arts graduates who were well-rounded and productive citizens. Many of us still make it. We meant it. And, best yet perhaps, it was and still is true. More...