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Bitcoin Halving: A History of Economics Shift & Financial Independence – Crypto Times

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Bitcoin Halving, a much-anticipated event in the crypto ecosystem, is being monitored closely by crypto enthusiasts across the globe as the price of the super volatile currency Bitcoin (BTC) is expected to set new benchmarks.

A short history of halving has shown us that the price of BTC and other cryptocurrencies have grown exponentially in a short time post the halving event. Trade analysts say that the halving events have the potential to disrupt markets, surge or plunge digital currencies and bring a shift in the economics of the crypto ecosystem.

In this article, we look at the history of halving and how the events unfolded to take BTC to newer heights through bullish sentiments and innovations.

Halving is a programmed event where the reward for mining BTC gets slashed by 50% for every new block created by the miners. As per the algorithm developed by makers of BTC and blockchain technology, a total of 21 million BTCs could ever be generated and the fee for generating BTCs and creating blocks gets reduced by %)% every time a total of 2,10,000 blocks are formed, which usually takes four years. Such a mechanism was introduced to remain intact the scarce value of BTC through controlled demand and supply.

Since its launch in 2009, Bitcoin has experienced three halving events, occurring approximately every four years. The first was in 2012, followed by 2016, 2020, and the upcoming in 2024.

The first Bitcoin halving took place after the network had confirmed 210,000 blocks, resulting in miners rewards being reduced from 50 to 25 BTC per block. At the moment of the halving, Bitcoin was priced at approximately $12 in the market. Following the halving, a bullish trend emerged, propelling Bitcoins price to $1,000 by the subsequent year.

The second Bitcoin halving occurred on July 9, 2016, at block 420,000, reducing the block reward to 12.5 BTC, coinciding with a market price of around $650. Following this event, Bitcoin witnessed another significant surge in value, with its price soaring to almost $20,000 within the subsequent 18 months, marking an extraordinary increase of 3,000%.

Following the third Bitcoin halving on May 11, 2020, occurring at block 630,000 and reducing the block reward to 6.25 BTC, the cryptocurrency demonstrated remarkable resilience amidst global economic uncertainty, with its price experiencing a surge. By April 2021, Bitcoin surpassed $69,000, reflecting an impressive 690% increase from its pre-halving value, which was approximately $9,000.

The upcoming fourth halving of Bitcoin is expected to occur on 19th April 2024, marked by the 840,000th block and a reward reduced to 3.125 BTC. At the current trading price of approximately $70,000, there is anticipation for a substantial surge in value post-halving.

Although the exact price surge is challenging to predict, historical patterns suggest a significant upward momentum, potentially propelling Bitcoin to new highs, with projections ranging from surpassing $100,000 to reaching $200,000 in the subsequent years, fueled by increasing institutional adoption and mainstream acceptance.

Based on the historical data available, there appears to be a diminishing rate of increase in Bitcoins price following each halving event, with the growth rate reducing by a factor of approximately 3.5 to 3.9 compared to the previous halving cycle.

Applying this observed pattern, one might infer that for the 2024 halving, Bitcoins price could potentially experience an uptick of around 200% from its trough.

However, its essential to recognize that past performance is not indicative of future results, and various factors can influence Bitcoins price dynamics, including market sentiment, adoption trends, regulatory developments, and macroeconomic conditions.

Presently, the circulating supply of Bitcoins exceeds 19 million, leaving less than 2 million BTC to be mined before reaching the maximum cap of 21 million. Nevertheless, due to the mechanism of Bitcoin halving, the process of mining these remaining 2 million Bitcoins will extend over approximately a century.

The final Bitcoin halving is projected to occur in the year 2140, coinciding with the completion of the mining of the entire 21 million BTC supply.

As we near Bitcoins fourth halving, the crypto community is on the edge, eagerly waiting for the changes it will bring. With each halving, Bitcoin solidifies its status as the digital equivalent of gold, its limited supply mirroring that of precious metals.

History shows us that after these events, Bitcoin often experiences dramatic price increases, challenging traditional market rules. But beyond its financial gains, Bitcoin represents something more profound: a decentralized ideal, offering financial freedom in an uncertain world.

As we look ahead to the post-2024 halving landscape, one thing is clear: Bitcoins story is just beginning. Its a testament to human innovation, a revolutionary force capable of reshaping economies, empowering individuals, and transforming our understanding of money itself.

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Bitcoin Halving: A History of Economics Shift & Financial Independence - Crypto Times

Former ‘Real Housewives’ Star Reveals Son Has Died at 35 – The Daily Beast

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Former Real Housewives of Orange County star Lauri Peterson has revealed that her 35-year-old son Joshua-Michael Waring has died.

Peterson took to Instagram Saturday to pay tribute to her son, who she said died on Easter Sunday. She did not explicitly reveal how he passed away but noted his well-documented history of substance abuse.

It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday. No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss, she wrote. Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great.

Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life. I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness, she wrote.

Peterson was a main cast member on the first four seasons of The Real Housewives of Orange County and then appeared off and on until season 8.

She gave birth to Joshua-Michael in 1988, followed by daughters Ashley and Sophie.

Waring also leaves behind his young daughter, Kennady.

Her fellow Bravolebrities paid tribute to Joshua-Michael on her Instagram post.

Lauri I am so sorry. This is heartbreaking. You tried so hard to save him, and by sharing Joshs story you would up educating people around the world about the tragedy of addiction for those who are touched by it, Bravo boss Andy Cohen wrote.

Oh Laurie, my heart breaks for you so much. I know how much you fought for him and always wanted nothing but the best for him. May the Lord surround you with his angels and give you strength through this incredibly hard loss. I love you friend , Gretchen Rossi wrote.

My heart breaks for you, i know how hard you worked to be his advocate . Big hug and prayers for your family at this sad time, Jeana Keough wrote.

In February, Waring was arrested on suspicion of punching a security guard in California.

In June 2016, he was charged with three counts of attempted murder for the shooting of 35-year-old Daniel Lopez. After spending four years in prison he entered a guilty plea and was sentenced to time served.

Waring also had multiple arrests on drug possession counts.

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Former 'Real Housewives' Star Reveals Son Has Died at 35 - The Daily Beast

Real Housewives star Lauri Peterson announces heartbreaking death of her son, 35 – HELLO!

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Lauri Peterson, a former Real Housewives of Orange County star, has announced thetragic death of her son Josh, who died on March 31 at the age of 35. Lauri shared the news on Instagram alongside a series of beautiful pictures of Josh throughout his life, and with his daughter Kennady, whom Lauri adopted due to his drug addiction.

In the post, Lauri thanked those who had made an impact on Josh's life and supported Lauri through this journey.

"It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday. No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss," she wrote.

"Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great."

Lauri continued: "Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life. I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness."

Lauri shared that Josh "received the most joy, pride and purpose through his daughter Kennady and watching her grow and thrive over the years," and wrote that she prayed that he had now "found the peace you deserve".

Kennady is now in the fifth grade, and lives with Lauri and her husband George, whom she married in 2007.

Over the years, Josh had been in the headlines for various legal troubles, including most recent in 2022 when he was found in possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years in prison.

He had spent four years in prison for attempted murder after shooting a man named Daniel Lopez outside of a sober living home in 2016. Daniel survived the attack.

Lauri always insisted that Josh had been set up by police. In 2018 she wrote on social media: "After keeping silent for nearly 2 years in regards to my son's arrest, I am going to begin laying out the facts of his case and how easily it is to be falsely accused!"

Lauri quit the Real Housewivesfranchise in 2008 after Josh, who had struggled with a heroin addiction, relapsed and was sentenced to eight months in jail.

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Real Housewives star Lauri Peterson announces heartbreaking death of her son, 35 - HELLO!

RHOC Alum Lauri Peterson’s Son Josh Waring Has Passed Away at 35, See Her Sweet Tribute to Him – Reality Blurb

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Very heartbreaking news to report asJosh Waring, the son of the Real Housewives of Orange County alum Lauri Peterson, has passed away at the age of 35.

Just moments ago, Lauri took to her Instagram page to announce that Josh died on Easter Sunday.

It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday, shared Lauri on April 6.

She continued, No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss. Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great.

Lauri then went on to describe the kind of person Josh was.

Even during adult hardship, Josh continued to maintain his sense of humor, continued to be optimistic, continued to be kind to others, defended those that were unable to defend themselves and continued to love his family so so much! He received the most joy, pride and purpose through his daughter Kennady and watching her grow and thrive over the years, she wrote.

Lauri also shed some light on substance abuse issues, something Josh struggled with throughout his adult life in addition to his run-ins with the law, as she thanked those who tried to help him over the years.

Thank you to all of the people that have tried to help Josh along the way. I am witness to many Angels on earth. Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life. I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness, shared Lauri.

Lastly, she shared some sweet words for her son.

She wrote, Josh I love you so much and I will miss you terribly! I will forever be your Mama Bear & Mama Dukes and every time the clock turns to 11:11, I will expect your call to tell me to make a wish! What will I wish for now? My heart is with you and I pray you have found the peace that you so deserve. Heaven has gained the coolest angel and you have gained your freedom at last sweet boy. Love always and forever, Mom Joshua-Michael Phillip Waring 12/20/88-3/31/24.

Lauri welcomed Josh in 1988, followed by daughters Ashley and Sophie. Josh is also survived by his young daughter, 11-yr-old Kennady.

RIP Joshua.

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RHOC Alum Lauri Peterson's Son Josh Waring Has Passed Away at 35, See Her Sweet Tribute to Him - Reality Blurb

Frontline Forum Part 1: Challenges and Opportunities to Enhance Psoriasis Management – Dermatology Times

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As the understanding of psoriasis continues to evolve, the imperative of personalized care has gained prominence, reshaping the traditional paradigms of treatment. In the recentDermatology Timescustom video series Advancements in Psoriasis Care: Navigating Emerging Therapies and Guidelines, experts in the management of skin conditions discussed the latest developments in plaque psoriasis management. The panel discussion included Linda Stein Gold, MD, of Henry Ford Health in Detroit, Michigan; Mona Shahriari, MD, of Yale University School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut; Michael Cameron, MD, of Cameron Dermatology in New York, New York; Leon Kircik, MD, of Derm Research, PLLC, in Louisville, Kentucky; and George Han, MD, of Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. The conversation shed light on the evolving paradigms, evidence-based approaches, and need for individualized care in managing thiscondition (Table).

Stein Gold emphasized the challenges posed by complex treatment regimens and said, The use of complex regimens with multiple topical agents can lead to lower adherence and less effective treatment. This sentiment underscores the critical need to streamline treatment approaches to enhance patient adherence and optimize treatment outcomes.

The panelists also highlighted the impact of treatment complexity on patient adherence, with Cameron noting, The more complex the regimen is, the lower the adherence, which means were less effectively [managing] the disease. This insight underscores the direct correlation between treatment complexity and patient adherence, emphasizing the need for streamlined andpatient-friendly regimens.

Furthermore, Shahriari said, Its really a matter of simplifying the treatment regimen. This sentiment underscores the need to reevaluate treatment approaches and streamline regimens to enhance patient adherence andtreatment efficacy.

In the realm of psoriasis management, the emergence of steroid phobia and evolving patient preferences has sparked critical discussions among health care professionals. Kircik highlighted the growing trend of steroid phobia among patients, stating, There is now this trend that nobody wants to be on steroids. This observation underscores the shifting attitudes toward steroid-based treatments and the impact on patient-provider discussions regarding treatment options.

The panelists also addressed the concerns surrounding patient preferences for nonsteroidal treatment options, with Stein Gold emphasizing the need to consider alternative therapies, stating, I think of steroids as a short-term solution to a long-term problem. Its really a Band-Aid. This sentiment underscores the evolving perspectives on steroid-based treatments and the need to explore nonsteroidal alternatives to address patient preferences and concerns. Additionally, Cameron provided insights into the prevalence of steroid phobia, saying, I find that [for] most of my patients, whether they [have] mild, moderate, or severe [disease], I dont want them using steroidslong term.

Psoriasis management guidelines serve as a critical resource, providing evidence-based recommendations for the management of psoriasis. Stein Gold addressed the limitations of current treatment guidelines and said, The problem is the guidelines are not for psoriasis. Theyre being done for atopic dermatitis right now. This observation sparked a conversation about the need for updated and comprehensive guidelines that align with the evolving landscape ofpsoriasis management.

The panelists also addressed the implications of treatment guidelines on patient care, with Kircik emphasizing the need for individualized treatment approaches, stating, We are looking for new topicals that are steroid freeor nonsteroidal.

Shahriari expressed the importance of defining disease severity in treatment guidelines and noted, I think we need to talk more about the definitions of mild, moderate, [and] severe psoriasis. This perspective highlights the need for clear and comprehensive definitions of disease severity to guide treatment approaches and optimize patient outcomes.

The panel noted that guidelines are often used against providers by attorneys and insurance companies and can be prescriptive rather than informative. The entire panel agreed that guidelines should be based on a review of the literature and provide a comprehensive overview of available treatments rather thanspecific recommendations.

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Frontline Forum Part 1: Challenges and Opportunities to Enhance Psoriasis Management - Dermatology Times

First supercomputer that simulates entire human brain switching on in 2024 – Study Finds

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PENRITH, Australia DeepSouth, the worlds first supercomputer designed to simulate the entire human brain, is now just months away from activation. Developed by researchers at the International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems (ICNS) at Western Sydney University, DeepSouth boasts the capability to mimic brain networks on the scale of an actual human mind.

DeepSouth employs a neuromorphic system, which replicates human biological processes. By utilizing hardware, it efficiently simulates large networks of spiking neurons, achieving an impressive 228 trillion synaptic operations per second. This rate is comparable to what scientists believe the human brain could achieve. The researchers at ICNS are optimistic that by replicating brain functions, they can gain a deeper understanding of its workings and subsequently design more effective AI systems.

Professor Andr van Schaik, the Director of ICNS, highlights that DeepSouth is distinct from other supercomputers due to its unique design. Specifically engineered to function like networks of neurons (brain cells), it requires less power and achieves greater efficiencies. This approach stands in stark contrast to traditional supercomputers, which, optimized for conventional computing tasks, consume a considerable amount of power.

Progress in our understanding of how brains compute using neurons is hampered by our inability to simulate brain like networks at scale. Simulating spiking neural networks on standard computers using Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and multicore Central Processing Units (CPUs) is just too slow and power intensive. Our system will change that, Prof. van Schaik says in a media release.

This platform will progress our understanding of the brain and develop brain-scale computing applications in diverse fields including sensing, biomedical, robotics, space, and large-scale AI applications.

Prof. van Schaik believes that the DeepSouth system will pave the way for advancements in smart devices, such as mobile phones and sensors used in manufacturing and agriculture. Moreover, it is expected to contribute to the development of AI applications that are both less power-intensive and more intelligent. Additionally, the system will enhance our understanding of the workings of the human brain, both in healthy and diseased states.

The ICNS team at Western Sydney University has been instrumental in the development of this groundbreaking project, working in collaboration with experts across the neuromorphic field. This includes partnerships with researchers from the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, and the University of Aachen in Germany.

The name DeepSouth was thoughtfully chosen, serving as a tribute to IBMs TrueNorth system, which spearheaded the effort to create machines that simulate large networks of spiking neurons. It also honors Deep Blue, the first computer to win a world chess championship. Additionally, the name reflects its geographic location, down under in Australia.

DeepSouth is scheduled to become operational by April 2024.

Artificial Intelligence: By mimicking the brain, we will be able to create more efficient ways of undertaking AI processes than our current models.

Super-fast, large scale parallel processing using far less power: Our brains are able to process the equivalent of an exaflop a billion-billion (1 followed by 18 zeros) mathematical operations per second with just 20 watts of power. Using neuromorphic engineering that simulates the way our brain works, DeepSouth can process massive amounts of data quickly, using much less power, while being much smaller than other supercomputers.

Scalability: This systems design allows easy expansion by adding more hardware for larger systems or downsizing for portable or cost-effective applications.

Reconfigurable Design: Leveraging Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) allows hardware reprogramming, enabling the addition of new neuron models, connectivity schemes, and learning rules. DeepSouths remote accessibility through a Python-based front end simplifies usage without intricate hardware knowledge.

Commercial Availability: DeepSouth relies on off-the-shelf hardware, ensuring continual enhancements and easy replication at global data centers. This approach overcomes challenges associated with custom-designed hardware, which is time-consuming and costly.

South West News Service writer Dean Murray contributed to this report.

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First supercomputer that simulates entire human brain switching on in 2024 - Study Finds

DeepSouth Supercomputer: A Revolutionary Project to Simulate the Human Brain – Medriva

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In a groundbreaking feat of technology and neuroscience, a supercomputer designed to simulate the entire human brain is set to be operational in 2024. This ambitious venture, known as the DeepSouth project, promises to replicate human brain functions and behaviors, with the potential to revolutionize our understanding of neurological disorders, artificial intelligence, and cognitive processes.

DeepSouth, the worlds first human brain-scale supercomputer, is being developed at Western Sydney University. Once activated, it will be capable of 228 trillion synaptic operations per second. This astonishing rate of operations rivals the estimated rate at which the human brain processes information. Interestingly, the human brain accomplishes this feat while using a considerably small amount of power. Understanding this efficiency is one of the key ambitions of the DeepSouth project.

The DeepSouth supercomputer takes a neuromorphic approach to replicate the human brain. This means it is designed to emulate large networks of spiking neurons, closely imitating the biological processes that occur in our brains. The project involves a collaboration of scientists and researchers from various fields, all working together to develop a supercomputer capable of mimicking the complex functions of the human brain, including consciousness and emotions.

The supercomputers potential applications extend far beyond academic curiosity. It is expected to be a game changer for the study of neuroscience, offering unprecedented insights into how our brains work. This could lead to significant advancements in diagnosing, managing, and treating neurological disorders.

Moreover, the supercomputer holds promise for the field of artificial intelligence (AI). By understanding how the human brain processes vast amounts of information so efficiently, engineers could design more efficient AI systems. This could dramatically improve a wide range of technologies, from autonomous vehicles to voice recognition software.

DeepSouths potential impact extends to diverse fields such as sensing, biomedical, robotics, space, and large-scale AI applications. The supercomputer could revolutionize these sectors by providing a deeper understanding of human cognition and its efficient processes. In essence, the DeepSouth project brings us a step closer to fully understanding the brains complex mechanisms, a frontier that remains largely unexplored in science.

With the DeepSouth supercomputer set to be operational by April 2024, the countdown to this remarkable scientific achievement has begun. As we approach this milestone, the anticipation surrounding the project continues to build. While its too early to predict exactly what the DeepSouth project will uncover, one thing is for sure this pioneering venture stands to significantly advance our understanding of the brain, its processes, and its potential.

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DeepSouth Supercomputer: A Revolutionary Project to Simulate the Human Brain - Medriva

Students need to stop turning their backs on liberal arts degrees – North Texas Daily

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The pressure to pursue a STEM major in college has steadily grown over the years, causing the arts and humanities to be overshadowed in exchange. The liberal arts are a necessary pillar of education that deserves to be valued and maintained.

The number of jobs requiring STEM qualifications has surged by 34 percent over the past decade, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Students have been told sciences are the future of our world and the most practical thing to study in college. Following that advice is usually at the disparagement of a liberal arts education, calling it a "useless degree."

The notion of a useless degree is misperceived because any form of education and learning will never be useless, and a liberal arts education is valuable. Most people who belittle arts and humanities usually do so from a place of ignorance. They misconstrue the liberal arts as being associated with the modern political idea of liberalism, or the opposite of being conservative.

Rather, the term liberal arts refers to the Latin word liberalesmeaning "free," as opposed to "subjugation" or "enslavement." The term was used during the Middle Ages to distinguish from the servile arts, which were vocational careers such as medicine, engineering and business. The liberal arts were considered the education of a free person in society unconstrained by the sole purpose of production, with the ability to learn liberating knowledge.

The fundamentals of a liberal arts education are grounded in the idea of broad interdisciplinary teachings that serve to create critical thinkers who recognize the interconnectedness of all knowledge. This form of education should be applied and taught to all majors, and would especially benefit the sciences. Being able to relate formulas and numbers to the arts and humanities would help foster creativity, innovation and remind students of the human aspect of their disciplines.

Instead, universities and their federal funding are adopting a hard stance on turning colleges into vocational schools, investing more within their STEM departments and phasing out the arts. The National Endowment for the Humanities budgetwas only$180 million in 2022, and the National Science Foundations budget lapped that number by 50 times, according to The New York Times. The future of higher education is now blindsided with the prospect of creating a world of scientists and business professionals, approaching students as cogs needed to fit within the business world framework instead of as learners.

Even politicians are pushing toward the death of liberal arts education. Miguel Cardona, the current secretary of education, said Every student should have access to an education that aligns with industry demands and evolves to meet the demands of tomorrow's global workforce. Insinuating the sole reason for education is to meet industry demands instead of self-fulfillment or the development of moral virtues, qualities philosophers like Socrates and Aristotle intended education to create for individuals.

What these advocates of a strict STEM paradigm fail to recognize is that only some are suited for science and math. Whether it is because they do not find enjoyment within the numbers or they simply do not have the predisposition for a mathematical aptitude, no one should feel pressured by industry demands or STEM job qualifications.

Students should pursue whatever major they are passionate about or what brings them enjoyment. The construct that some majors are better than others or prepare you for life better needs to be reevaluated. Most majors within the arts and humanities focus on the human aspect of their disciplines and are well-versed in soft skills such as communication, adaptability and creativity. Eighty-nine percent of recruiters in LinkedIns 2019 Global Talent Trends report claimed people who did not get hired lacked these skills.

Although many value the sciences as being more vital to society than the arts, the need to value the cultivation of culture and the understanding between people that the liberal arts establish must always remain a priority within education. After all, what is the point of doctors saving lives and engineers crafting towers if there is not music to be heard or art to witness?

That begins with universities and federal organizations recognizing the importance of a liberal arts education and implementing more funding and opportunities for liberal arts colleges. Core requirement courses must extend to include more classes within the humanities and arts for STEM majors to foster a holistic education rather than a technical one.

Steve Jobs said it best: Technology alone is not enough. It is technology married with liberal arts, married with the humanities, that [] make[s] our heart sing.

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Students need to stop turning their backs on liberal arts degrees - North Texas Daily