| dc.description.abstract | The nature of, and relationships between Society, the University and University
Academics are briefly explored. Three cultures, or broad disciplines, are seen within the university: engineering/science, humanities and commerce. In light of this, consideration is given to the manner in which the three disciplines interact. The development of modern scientific thought is assessed, especially the influence that the humanities have had upon science. The growing status of commerce in society, and the interdependence of commerce upon engineering, science and the humanities are also briefly reviewed. Modern universities are very vocationally oriented, and while this is good in the shortterm, there is potential for universities to focus on producing work ready graduates rather
than providing a broader education, as such, they are in danger of losing touch with one
of the unique rôles they play in an increasingly secular world: that of “Critic and Conscience of Society”. The human capital within the university is both extraordinarily knowledgeable and diverse, comprising the greatest concentration of scholars within a society. Unfortunately, the increasing specialization that is required of university staff has decreased interdisciplinary collaboration. The humanities are generally well insulated
from science and engineering in discrete academic silos. Further, there is often minimal interaction between engineering and the sciences, let alone the arts… There are
nonetheless opportunities, through which change may be effected, and this dissertation
provides the rationale that underlies a successful, long-running course on professional ethics, wherein humanities and biological perspectives are being provided to
undergraduate engineers in two countries. | en_US |
