Advanced Humanities Research
Advanced Humanities Research (AHR) is a yearlong course offered to students with a deep interest in the humanities—languages, literature, history, philosophy and the arts—who want to tackle a complex topic that doesn’t have a clear “answer.”
In AHR, students engage in deep, original inquiry into the most urgent issues shaping our world today, from public health to political identity. These projects demonstrate how students apply rigorous research methods, critically evaluate sources, and craft nuanced arguments that reflect both historical context and contemporary relevance. At its core, the program encourages independent thinking and empowers students to contribute meaningfully to national and global conversations.
RECENT AHR TOPICS
Stand Back and Stand By: Polarization and the Creation of Violent Militia
Stories For Success: Comparing Constructivism and Waldorf Education Methods and Their Correlation to Success
Hair Braiding And Hairdo As Vessels of Meaning
What is “Right” or “Wrong?” The Application of Relativism and Universalism
Expletive Deleted: A Study of Linguistic Taboo
Clay Splawn
Director, Advanced Humanities Research
Email: csplawn@berkshireschool.org
The opportunity to focus on a certain topic and then write a 40-page research paper is something that is unique to Berkshire and was an experience that will stay with me for life." Trevor Weinstein-Sullivan '25
AHR Matriculation
Advanced Humanities Research students have attended these and other leading colleges and universities:
Barnard, Bates, Colby, Colorado College, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Duke, Emory, Georgetown, Hamilton, Middlebury, Northwestern, Pomona, Tufts, Tulane, UC Berkeley, University of Chicago, University of Michigan, University of Southern California
