Eastern’s University Hour series continued on April 2 with a conversation about the liberal arts with communication Lecturer John Murphy. "Defending Liberal Arts in the STEM Age—A University Testimony " sparked a meaningful dialogue about the crucial role of the liberal arts in a world that is experiencing a rapid expansion in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.

Citing a 2011 essay by former Eastern President Elsa Núñez titled “Liberate the Liberal Arts from the Myth of Irrelevance,” Murphy and others in the audience argued that liberal arts are not a luxury, but a necessity. The discussion emphasized the importance of critical thinking, communication, ethical reasoning, and adaptability in a world dominated by misinformation and algorithmic decision-making.

A central theme of the discussion was the notion of a divide between STEM and the Arts. Multiple students and faculty agreed that STEM and arts (STEAM) can work together to better reflect the needs of today’s students and society, especially in the context of challenges like the rise of artificial intelligence, ethical dilemmas in science, and declining public trust in media and institutions.

The discussion turned to the role of media in shaping public discourse and educational priorities. Murphy criticized the rise of "news deserts" as local media organizations continue to close at alarming rates and rising polarization within the media, highlighting the critical skill of media literacy — another cornerstone of the liberal arts.

“Every message has an agenda,” he said. “More than ever, we need multiple sources, critical thinking, and open conversations like this to cut through the noise.”

Another theme was the financial pressure facing students. Many attendees shared stories of juggling work, debt, and full-time classes, leaving little time to explore the humanities or engage in the open-ended inquiries that liberal arts promote.

Others noted how rising tuition has changed the way students and parents view college. “People are asking what kind of job a degree will get them,” said one audience member.  “And that’s understandable. But it’s also short-sighted. Your career will evolve. Liberal arts prepare you to evolve with it.”

While acknowledging the pressures to study career-driven majors, Murphy emphasized that Eastern’s mission as Connecticut’s designated liberal arts university is more critical than ever, arguing that studying the arts and humanities makes for well-rounded, creative, and adaptable members of society.

“This isn’t a factory,” he said of Eastern. “It’s the creation of art that happens to use technology. The human element is what makes the difference. That’s why Eastern is here.”