The Power of Art in an Age of Science and Technology

In a world that values science and technology, where does creativity fit in?
Modern society celebrates groundbreaking scientific discoveries and technological innovations, yet art—one of the oldest and most profound forms of human expression—is often dismissed. But art is essential. It offers much more than beauty or entertainment. It nurtures psychological well-being, fosters creativity, builds empathy, strengthens human connection, and can spark change by challenging perspectives and evoking emotions. Without art, we risk becoming a society that prioritizes function over meaning.

Growing up as an introverted, creative child, I can’t count how many times I heard, "There’s no money in art," or, "Study science or business and do art on the side." While this advice isn’t inherently wrong, it reveals a lot about where our values lie. When choosing a college degree, should you study the arts or focus on the sciences? With the career opportunities and financial stability offered by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), pursuing the arts often feels like a joke and art programs are typically the first to be cut when budgets are tight. Society places more value on science and business degrees than on art degrees. But why? I think it's because science is measurable, factual, and quantifiable, while art is often seen as vague, subjective, and difficult to measure.

Despite the challenge of quantifying its value, the impact of art is undeniable. Numerous studies highlight the psychological benefits of working with your hands—an act deeply rooted in our human nature. For thousands of years, manual tasks were crucial for survival. But today, in a technology-driven world, many of us barely move throughout the day. We push buttons instead of washing dishes, buy plastic dinnerware rather than crafting our own, and have groceries delivered rather than growing our own food. While these conveniences make life comfortable, comfort doesn’t always equate to happiness. Engaging in meaningful, hands-on work triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, which improves mental well-being. This is why art therapy—using creative processes to explore emotions—has become a recognized and valuable therapeutic practice. From a spiritual perspective, Aryeh Kaplan, in his book Jewish Meditation, compares the deep focus of Jewish meditation—which aims for divine engagement—to the "flow" state many artists experience. When painting, artists often lose track of time, absorbed in their work for hours. This meditative immersion in the creative process helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and foster emotional clarity.

Art also fosters creativity, empathy, and human connection in ways that technology simply cannot replicate. In a world increasingly dominated by AI and algorithms, we see more uniformity and less individuality. While we’re more digitally connected than ever before, the quality of our social interactions has drastically decreased. Digital platforms often reduce complex human experiences to simple likes, emojis, and comments, leaving little room for genuine, meaningful connection. Art, on the other hand, allows us to express and experience a wide range of emotions, bridging gaps between people from different walks of life. Whether through a painting, a song, a play, or even the architecture that surrounds us, art sparks empathy, making us feel seen and understood while also opening our eyes to perspectives we might never have considered. It taps into our shared humanity, creating spaces for deeper, more personal connections—something that algorithms, no matter how advanced, cannot do. Consider what makes someone buy a piece of art. If you ask a buyer why they chose a particular piece, they might say they simply liked it. But what is it about that artwork that resonates with them? Often, it’s the emotion it evokes—the ability of the artwork to tap into something universal and deeply felt.

Art also inspires change by challenging perspectives and evoking emotions that go beyond the functional aspects of life. In today’s world, much of our technology and design focuses on function, efficiency, and practicality—values that serve us well in many areas of life. However, these utilitarian approaches can often overlook the emotional and aesthetic aspects that give life its richness. Modern architecture, for example, frequently prioritizes sleek, minimalist designs that meet practical needs but lack the soul-stirring beauty of more traditional structures. Think of the awe-inspiring architecture of Paris, the grandeur of ancient Greek temples, or the intricate paintings adorning Italian churches—each of these evokes deep emotion and wonder. Beauty and creativity have the power to elevate the human spirit. Art, in all its forms, plays a crucial role in reconnecting us with the emotional and moral dimensions of life. Whether through monumental architecture, a stirring painting, or a powerful piece of music, art moves us beyond the physical and functional, inviting us to reflect on our shared humanity and the values that bind us together.

Looking back, I was once firmly focused on science and technology, believing that functionality and efficiency were the ultimate keys to a better future. Yet, even as I became more focused on these fields throughout my career, something within me—the creative child I once was—recognized the value of art. Over time, I’ve come to realize that science and technology, while essential, should not exist without the complementary force of art. Science changes depending on the latest technology, but art is grounded in timeless human experience, offering a deep well of emotion, empathy, and moral reflection that remains constant regardless of advancements. While science may offer solutions to practical problems, art helps us understand our shared humanity, fosters authentic human connection, and guides us in navigating the moral complexities of life. Art brings depth to life; it encourages us to think critically, reflect on the world around us, and connect with others on a profound level. It nurtures creativity, fosters empathy, and sparks change—qualities that are vital to building a society that values not just function, but meaning. Art is not a luxury—it’s an essential force that helps shape how we see ourselves, each other, and the world we inhabit.