The Problem with Rules: Essays on the Meaning and Value of Liberal Education (The Malcolm Lester Phi Beta Kappa Lectures on Liberal Arts and Public Life)

There is a constant drumbeat of commentary claiming that STEM subjects―science, technology, engineering, and math―are far more valuable in today’s economy than traditional liberal arts courses such as philosophy or history. Many even claim that the liberal arts are "under siege" by neoliberal politicians and cost-conscious university administrators. In a forceful response, The Problem with Rules establishes the essential value of the liberal arts as the pedagogical pathway to critical thinking and moral character and argues for more not less emphasis in higher education.

John Churchill asserts that the liberal arts are more than decorative frills. Drawing from the philosophy of Wittgenstein to craft a cogent, inspired argument, Churchill insists on the liberal arts’ indispensable role, providing in this book a clarion call to politicians, university administrators, and all Americans to recognize and actively support and nurture the liberal arts.

The late John Churchill was Executive Secretary of Phi Beta Kappa from 2001 to 2016 and Professor of Philosophy at Hendrix College.