I believe that Computer Science has a place in "The Liberal Arts Education"-- that is I think an understanding of how computers are made, programming and algorithms should be a part of what a "well educated" person knows regardless of their particular area of focus.

This is not the case at present and one can be considered "well educated" a know nothing about computers.

1/

I believe that Computer Science has a place in "The Liberal Arts Education"-- that is I think an understanding of how computers are made, programming and algorithms should be a part of what a "well educated" person knows regardless of their particular area of focus.

This is not the case at present and one can be considered "well educated" a know nothing about computers.

1/

The concept and philosophy of the liberal arts education is the (I think) sensible idea that everyone* should know a little about the 'greatest hits' of human knowledge.

Obviously what is considered a 'greatest hit' could be contentious. Should everyone read Shakespeare? Does everyone need to know a little algebra? Should everyone be able to read? Should everyone be able to critique art?

2/

*Sometimes this is contracted to only include the ruling class. I see no reason to do this.

@futurebird - Should everyone have some familiarity with Unix?

@futurebird
I recall a computer 'scientist' at getting very upset when I queried whether he could legitimately be styled a scientist.

Have any computer scientist ever made a fundamental discovery or a new insight into some system? Perhaps best described as engineers.

He was affronted to be dubbed an engineer. Another person at the workshop was listening in and said they were happy to be called an engineer. This lead onto another discussion of whether someone working with quantum mechanics should be called an engineer.

Can't remember what the workshop was about. Possibly conflict in the workplace. I feel I contributed....