Whether we know it or not, the ancient “arts of liberty” have a daily impact on our modern lives. The core ideas that inform an education in the liberal arts are lofty—but they also are relevant to our daily lives. What is this vital connection between life and the liberal arts?

When asked to identify his favorite book outside the Bible, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. chose Plato’s Republic. That dialogue’s major question, “What is justice?” was the prevailing theme of King’s own powerful reflections on theology and politics.

Life and liberty, King believed, were rights granted to us by the Creator. In this affirmation, King echoed the words of the American Declaration of Independence, wherein “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” are proclaimed as among the rights possessed by all human beings.

To study the liberal arts is to study what makes human beings free. It is to reflect upon enduring high and noble principles.

The Hillsdale College Life and Liberty Summer Institute offers students the opportunity to experience the liberation—the freedom—an education in the liberal arts can offer. Students will encounter the following subjects:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• History
• Physics
• Religion
• Literature
• Politics
• Art
• Theater
• Music
  

Whether conducting experiments in the chemistry lab, discussing a great play or designing a Web page, participants in the Summer Institute will explore new academic challenges.

The academic program is complemented by a great program of extracurricular activities, including indoor and outdoor sports and games, a lakeside picnic, movies and exposure to residence life.