The Indispensability of Arts in School Education
Art is not insignificant; it is the only way to express things we do not fully understand. This article delves into the critical role arts play in education and life beyond. We will explore why schools should prioritize arts, its benefits, and the importance of artistic expression in cognitive development.
Understanding Human Conception
Human conception can be categorized into three groups: perfect formal understanding, partial understanding, and no understanding. These categories help us understand how we perceive the world and our place in it. Perfect formal understanding includes concepts like numbers and flow charts, and logical, defined processes such as mathematical formulas. On the other hand, partial understanding includes complex fields like the game of chess, the economy, quantum mechanics, and your job at the office. These have consistent patterns and predictive power, yet they are too multifaceted to fully comprehend. The no understanding category encompasses the arts, where questions make no sense, yet they are crucial to leading a good life.
The Role of the Arts in Expression
Art uniquely addresses the unanswerable questions that challenge our understanding. For instance, questions such as what is the color of hatred, when should you quit your job, and what does pain sound like, cannot be answered in a scientific or logical manner. Science class teaches us about the scientific method, starting with descriptive processes and hypothesis testing. However, the arts fill in the gap: where do our hypotheses come from?
Art is the first step in expressing the unknown, converting dark, abstract concepts into something tangible. When you run out of ideas, the arts provide a foothold. This is especially crucial for children, who must be taught how to express themselves. Otherwise, they risk life-long confusion and loss of self.
The Brain and Cognitive Development
The brain's role in our lives is beyond doubt. However, the question about the importance of arts in education is as vital. If arts are absent, it is fundamentally incomplete. Arts train the brain to be imaginative, a skill that is indispensable in life. We invent and discover things precisely because we can imagine. Only the arts teach imagination.
Beyond Cognitive Development
One might argue that the benefits of arts are limited to cognitive development; however, the impact extends much further. Musicians, creators of cartoons and anime, chefs, and many others who profit from creative work have made significant contributions to society. Creative fields are economically and socially crucial.
Furthermore, it is essential to include cooking classes in school. Cooking not only fosters creativity but also encourages practical skills and a healthy relationship with food. A well-rounded education should include these less traditional subjects, as they contribute significantly to a child's overall development and future success.
In conclusion, the arts are indispensable in education. They not only enhance cognitive abilities but also provide a critical avenue for expression and creative thinking. Schools must continue to prioritize arts to help students navigate the complexities of life and achieve their full potential.