Definition of liberal arts

The term "liberal arts" originates from the medieval Latin phrase "artes liberales," which translates to "free arts" or "disciplines worthy of a free person." This phrase refers to a specific set of subjects considered essential for developing the intellectual and moral qualities necessary for civic participation and leadership in a free society. During ancient times, these subjects included grammar, rhetoric, dialectic (or logic), arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy. They were known as the "seven liberal arts" and were considered foundational for a liberal education. The term "liberal" in this context does not refer to political ideology but instead points to the idea that these arts were for free individuals, meaning those who were not bound in servitude or enslaved. As such, the liberal arts were facilitative of developing the cognitive, moral, and intellectual abilities necessary to engage in meaningful civic and personal pursuits. In modern times, the definition of the liberal arts has evolved, and the specific subjects encompassed by the term have expanded to include fields such as literature, history, philosophy, and social sciences. This expansion reflects the changing societal values, priorities, and intellectual pursuits over time. In summary, the word "liberal arts" derives from the medieval Latin term "artes liberales," which refers to a group of subjects essential for cultivating the intellectual and moral qualities required for active citizenship in a free society.