Modern challenges like AI and global weather crises can stir up fear and controversy. But that’s for the scientists to sort out, right?
Not exactly. The humanities play a powerful, often overlooked role in technology and science. Trends in these fields can create ethical, moral, environmental, and philosophical dilemmas. The humanities equip us to navigate them—and open doors to diverse, impactful careers.
Let’s explore how humanities graduates can help tackle some of our greatest global challenges.
The scientific advances of this century have provided a staggering amount of data and technology. But we need humanities graduates to navigate the ethical, cultural, and human dimensions of these advances.
Some of today’s biggest challenges require an expert understanding of human behavior, ethics and values. Let’s examine two critical issues that show why we need humanities experts at the table.
AI is transforming the world with applications (and implications) for virtually every field. It’s given us new ways to heal, teach, learn, automate, and analyze. But there’s a dark side.
AI is controversial because it:
These aren’t just technical concerns—they’re ethical ones. And they’re not new. From the earliest days of computers, people have worried about information security. Now the stakes are even higher.
With AI offering clear benefits but raising ethical questions, our path forward isn’t clear. Ideally, we’ll need to establish policies that balance our technology needs with ethical guidelines.
Enter: humanities experts.
Humanities scholars excel in critical thinking, problem-solving, empathy, communication, and historical perspective. These critical skills are often absent in technology development and implementation.
Members of major humanities groups have contributed to crucial AI guidance:
2024 was the planet’s hottest year on record. 2025 began with the hottest January ever recorded. Hurricanes are growing so powerful that scientists now debate adding a Category 6. While debates rage about the source of climate challenges, one thing is clear: Extreme weather patterns are the new normal.
Addressing climate change isn’t just about technology—it’s about changing behaviors, building consensus, and making moral choices. We know the planet is warming: The hard part is getting 8 billion people to change how they live.
A humanities-based policy offers some critical insight. It asks:
Humanities graduates are tackling these questions on the job. Their work turns complex data and bold science into action most of us can understand—and join.
Working with national and global organizations, humanities professionals are becoming thought leaders in environmental responsibility:
Digital Humanities: Where Technology Meets Human Values
When you think of humanities, do you picture dusty books and ancient philosophy? Think again. Today’s humanities programs use cutting-edge technology to solve modern problems.
Technology advances all fields, including humanities. Digital humanities blends everything from literature and history to media, computer science, and, yes, AI. The result? Fresh ways of thinking. What started as a mix of arts and technology has grown to include machine learning, data science, and critical digital studies.
Here’s how it works in practice:
Humanities professionals work alongside technologists, scientists, and policymakers during development. They help ensure innovations have ethical, sustainable foundations before problems arise.
We all want to help the world overcome its challenges. An academic background in humanities can translate into real careers with real impact. Humanities graduates become:
Each role helps build a more ethical, sustainable future.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Find more careers here.
Ready to tackle global challenges with human-centered solutions?
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Humanities is your path forward. Our multidisciplinary program deepens your understanding of human cultures while developing the critical thinking skills employers demand.
You’ll learn to bridge the gap between technology and humanity, preparing for careers that make a real difference.
“Any form of art is a form of power; it has impact, it can affect change – it can not only move us, it makes us move.” — Ossie Davis, actor and activist October is Art and Humanities Month in the United States, a celebration that provides the perfect opportunity to consider how art helps…
Why pursue an education in humanities? Contrary to common perceptions that a humanities degree is less practical than a STEM degree, the skills you’ll develop through a humanities education are crucial for navigating the complexities of today’s world. According to the US. Department of Labor, the most desired soft skills include oral and written communication,…
When you think of adding artwork to your walls of your home, you might envision the iconic graphics of pop art or the nature-inspired strokes of impressionist pieces. No matter the style of art you’re after, you’re sure to find something to express yourself in the deep catalog of works available to the modern masses. …