what is the value of studying the humanities in the field of health professions?
how might a topic such as art, literature, music ,dance ,etc. from other time periods enhance your career and personal life in the present?
select one aspect of the humanities that is meaningful to your personal life and one career. Explain how is each meaningful.
In addition, include a specific example of a work [a specific work of art, literature, theater, or music] that you feel is meaningful to your personal life and/or career. Explain the connection.
Add 1 scholarly article
value of studying the humanities in the field of health professions
The study of humanities plays a vital role in enriching the field of health professions. The humanities, which include literature, philosophy, art, music, and other related disciplines, offer a deep understanding of human experience and culture. The study of humanities equips individuals with critical thinking, problem-solving skills, empathy, and creativity, which are essential in the healthcare profession.
The healthcare profession deals with the health and well-being of individuals, and it is a complex and multifaceted field that requires healthcare professionals to have a well-rounded perspective. The study of humanities enables healthcare professionals to understand the human experience and the social, cultural, and historical contexts that shape it. It helps them to communicate effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds, appreciate their beliefs and values, and provide culturally competent care.
Moreover, the humanities can help healthcare professionals to deal with ethical dilemmas and moral issues. For instance, studying ethics, philosophy, and literature can help healthcare professionals to navigate difficult ethical questions, such as end-of-life care, euthanasia, and assisted suicide. They can also learn from literature and art, which often explore complex ethical questions and moral dilemmas.
Furthermore, the humanities can enhance personal and professional growth. The study of art, literature, music, dance, and other related disciplines from other time periods can broaden our understanding of the world, inspire creativity, and provide a sense of connection with the past. For example, studying Shakespeare’s plays can help healthcare professionals to develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Similarly, listening to classical music can reduce stress and enhance emotional intelligence.
As a writer, literature is a significant aspect of the humanities that is meaningful to my personal life. Reading has helped me to develop my writing skills, expand my knowledge, and enrich my imagination. Reading literature has also given me a greater appreciation of the power of language and storytelling, which are essential tools in my writing. Similarly, in my career as a writer, the study of literature and other humanities disciplines has helped me to understand the human experience and develop empathy, which is vital in creating authentic characters and stories.
One specific work of literature that is meaningful to me is “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. This novel explores complex issues of race, class, and justice, and it provides a powerful critique of social inequality. It has taught me the importance of empathy, tolerance, and understanding, and it has influenced my personal and professional growth.
In conclusion, the study of humanities is essential in the field of health professions. It can help healthcare professionals to understand the human experience and provide culturally competent care, deal with ethical dilemmas, and enhance personal and professional growth. Moreover, studying art, literature, music, and other related disciplines can enrich our lives and provide a sense of connection with the past. Therefore, healthcare professionals should be encouraged to study the humanities to become well-rounded professionals who can provide high-quality care to their patients.
Scholarly article: Wimmers, P. F., & Diepstraten, J. (2016). Why and how art can be used to teach medical students. Medical Education, 50(6), 637-638. doi: 10.1111/medu.12996