What is the Goal of a Classical Liberal Arts Education?

A Look at the History and Purpose of This Time-Honored Approach to Education

By Scott Wilson BA

In an era where technology and specialization reign supreme, it's easy to question the relevance of a classical liberal arts education. However, this time-honored approach to education has endured for centuries for a reason. It aims to cultivate individuals who are intellectually curious, critically aware, and capable of adapting to a rapidly changing world.

The classical liberal arts tradition, rooted in ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizes the study of the "seven liberal arts": grammar, rhetoric, logic, arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy. These subjects were considered essential for the development of a well-rounded individual who could participate effectively in society.

Over the centuries, the liberal arts curriculum has evolved to encompass a broader range of subjects, including literature, history, philosophy, and the natural sciences. However, the core goal of a classical liberal arts education remains the same: to prepare students for a life of intellectual inquiry, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making.