Arts and humanities create a vital society
The Wisconsin Humanities Council operates through the University of Wisconsin-Extension to build a strong network among cultural institutions statewide, engaging people in the exploration of human cultures, ideas and values. Dean Bakopoulos, executive director of the Wisconsin Humanities Council and writer, discusses the importance of arts and humanities with UW Colleges and UW-Extension Interim Chancellor Marv Van Kekerix.
Marv Van Kekerix, interim chancellor, UW Colleges and UW-Extension
VAN KEKERIX: Why are the arts and humanities important in our society?
BAKOPOULOS: They serve as catalysts for reflection, dialogue and cooperation. In an increasingly complex world, they are a common ground for diverse groups of people with differing ideas and backgrounds.
VAN KEKERIX: Is there a correlation between artistic expression and economic vitality?
BAKOPOULOS: Certainly. The sort of thinking that goes into the creation of art and the study of the humanities can inspire innovative thinking. A current trend in business is to encourage "thinking outside the box," though people in the arts and humanities have done that for centuries. At the center of all great civilizations were leaders, generals, entrepreneurs and activists who were well versed in poetry, philosophy, music and art. It's a legacy that's hard to ignore.
Dean Bakopoulos, executive director, Wisconsin Humanities Council
VAN KEKERIX: How should the university support Wisconsin's creative climate?
BAKOPOULOS: The university has the infrastructure, the personnel and, most important, the mission to continually encourage the development of new ideas, new models and new visions for the future. If the university is not given the freedom and the resources to pursue its mission, the entire state suffers economically, culturally and socially.
Our state is a leader nationwide in encouraging a system of higher education that benefits everyone, even people who never set foot in a college classroom. We must continue to be leaders in this field, and the Wisconsin Humanities Council can help. We bring academic scholars into the greater community and bridge the distances between the ivory tower and the town hall.
See p. 7 for information on the Wisconsin Humanities Council's statewide book group, A More Perfect Union.