The search for synthesis: constraints on the development of the humanities in liberal science-based education

Options in humanities and languages have been available to Imperial College students on a college-wide basis since 1973. Demand from students has steadily increased, (doubling over the last 10 years, a period in which student numbers at the college increased by 45%), with over 3000 students currently taking up the offerings of the Humanities Programme each year. In the fortieth anniversary year of C. P. Snow's famous 'Two Cultures' Rede lecture, the article examines the rationale for such studies, analysing the different intellectual propositions that have shaped their development, and exploring ways in which they can offer benefits of use and delight to today's students. Special attention is given to research and development work regarding types of activity that form a bridge between scientific and humanities disciplines-socio-technical projects, undergraduate research opportunities, and student tutoring as a form of study service. The article concludes by reviewing a number of operational constraints on the development of the humanities in liberal science-based education.