Steven Pinker and Yo-Yo Ma present a similar view on connecting science with humanistic approaches. In “Science Is Not Your Enemy”, Pinker writes about how science provides reasoning for why we are able to believe in our moral and spiritual values; it allows us to distinguish fact from fiction and explain why humans think the way that we do. Pinker says “The facts of science, by exposing the absence of purpose in the laws governing the universe, force us to take responsibility for the welfare of ourselves, our species, and our planet.” In this quote, Pinker explains that science gives way towards a better understanding of humans and society as a whole. Similarly, Ma touches on this idea in his essay “Necessary Edges: Arts, Empathy, and Education”. He sets forth the idea that in order to better succeed as a society, the worlds of science and art (in a humanistic manner) must reach equilibrium. This allows humans to understand our society and work together towards success. Ma says “Only when science and the arts, critical and empathetic reasoning, are linked to the mainstream will we find a sustainable balance in society.” When we are able to approach science with a humanistic view and vice versa then we will reach equilibrium. Pinker and Ma both believe that science gives a reason for humanistic ideas in light of society. Without this approach, we would not be able to distinguish facts from fiction or find a balance in society.

I hope to become an Orthodontist someday and I know that school will be long and difficult throughout my time studying. I believe that art is very necessary for this field because you must be able to creatively find solutions to fix misalignments of the teeth and in order to come up with these solutions, you must be able to envision the end result. This requires some form of creative art background. Personally, I know that I will have to take some form of a studio art class in order to fit the criteria for dental school. Pinker’s text “Science Is Not Your Enemy” made me think about how science is a tough topic, but it can be used to make sense of things, similar to what Yo-Yo Ma said about art. Intertwining the two will make one or the other easier to understand. In order to succeed throughout the next 9 years of school, it is essential that I am able to understand these tough concepts and use the two worlds to my advantage. Pinker mentions “[Science] is, rather, indispensable in all areas of human concern, including politics, the arts, and the search for meaning, purpose, and morality.” Science is absolutely necessary for all of these areas, specifically art, in this context. Having a creative mind will lead to success in science-related fields, especially in the dental field for me.