It is a "unfortunate misconception" that studying the humanities is less valuable than pursuing subjects such as science or business, because while career-focussed degrees may boost earning power, a grounding in the humanities can offer both education and enrichment. Writing on TH Online, Kathy Koecke-Byerly, who holds bachelor's degrees in both English and philosophy, said it is important for students to get involved with the humanities, as learning about cultural rather than scientific subjects aids personal and academic development. Ms Koecke-Byerly stated that studying these areas expanded her own horizons - classical literature showed her the "common threads" of human nature woven through numerous written works, while philosophy taught her logic and the ability to look at things in new ways. "It's broadened my ability to consider perspectives beyond my own," she said. "Anyone can tap into the enrichment offered by the humanities." Humanities subjects can include languages, language arts, literature, fine arts and philosophy, she added.  |