Resisting chaos: the power of the humanities as a problem‐solving system

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this essay is to argue the importance of the humanities as a problem‐solving “system”, one which has for thousands of years provided humankind with the tools to make reasoned decisions about complex problems in an ever‐changing world.

Design/methodology/approach

This essay places the idea of complexity within a historical and philosophical context.

Findings

The rise of new technologies has resulted in the notion that human beings are no longer capable of addressing complex problems. Too dogmatic a reliance upon technology, however, instead of leading to clarity, can lead to chaos and confusion.

Social implications

One of the few remaining “big structures” which retains a significant degree of public trust is higher education. If we continue to devalue the one area of study – the humanities – which has as its ultimate purpose precisely the analysis of “complex issues” – in favor of quasi‐human systemic solutions or an alteration of the “epistemology” of education, we will surely render ourselves irrelevant.

Originality/value

This is an original approach and an original piece of work.

Citation

Katopes, P. (2011), "Resisting chaos: the power of the humanities as a problem‐solving system", On the Horizon, Vol. 19 No. 2, pp. 140-146. https://doi.org/10.1108/10748121111138344