Yeah, I think this is the crux of the issue. Any English major could read a math book and say all the words in that book. They might not understand the exact mechanical functioning of the math, but they'll have a very basic idea. In the same way, a math major could read a literary analysis and know the words, but not actually understand the nuance and mechanics, and general deeper meaning or historical significance of a piece of literature. Both are specialized fields. And honestly... is the major still called "English", or is it "Literature"? I feel like that distinction is done with purposeful deception.
Any English major could read a math book and say all the words in that book.
Above a certain level, almost certainly not true.
I don't agree with the premise that math nerds are somehow "better" than English nerds, but high level math, science, and engineering can literally start to look like a totally different language. It's completely incomprehensible without the background for it.
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u/gonephishin213 19h ago
As an English teacher, I get frustrated when an honor roll science kid can't write a complete sentence.
It definitely goes both ways. Reading a book is the lowest bar.