Pronunciation: [lˈɪbəɹə͡l stˈʌdi] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of "liberal study" is with an "e" after the "b," making it "liberal arts." This is because "liberal" comes from the Latin word "liberalis," which means "of or befitting a free person." The IPA phonetic transcription of "liberal arts" is /ˈlɪbərəl ɑrts/ or "LIH-buh-ruhl ahrts." The "buh" sound is the schwa, which is the unstressed vowel sound. The "ahr" sound is the long "a" sound.
Liberal study refers to an approach to education that emphasizes broad knowledge, critical thinking, and intellectual exploration across various disciplines. It is an educational philosophy that promotes a well-rounded education by exposing students to a wide range of subjects and ideas. The term "liberal" in this context does not refer to a political ideology, but rather to the Latin word "liberalis," meaning "worthy of a free person."
A liberal study curriculum typically encompasses subjects such as humanities, sciences, social sciences, arts, and mathematics. It encourages students to develop their analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to reason, debate, and question assumptions.
Through liberal study, students gain a holistic understanding of the world and cultivate a curiosity for knowledge. It aims to promote intellectual growth, cultural awareness, and an appreciation for diversity. This type of education also emphasizes the importance of ethical reasoning, moral judgment, and civic responsibility.
Liberal study often takes a multidisciplinary approach, facilitating connections between different fields of study. It encourages students to make connections across various disciplines, fostering creativity and innovation. By exposing students to a variety of perspectives and ideas, it aims to equip them with a well-rounded education that prepares them for lifelong learning, critical thinking, and adaptability in an ever-evolving society.
The word "liberal" originates from the Latin word "liberalis", which means "appropriate for a free person" or "related to a free person". In ancient Rome, a liberalis was an individual who was not enslaved and had the freedom to pursue intellectual and artistic endeavors.
The term "liberal study" dates back to the Middle Ages when universities and higher education began to emerge. During this period, the concept of liberal arts education gained prominence. Liberal arts encompassed a broad range of subjects, including grammar, rhetoric, logic, arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music. These studies were considered essential for individuals to cultivate their minds and develop critical thinking skills.
The word "study" comes from the Old French word "estudier" or Latin "studium", which means "zeal" or "diligent application of oneself to learning".
