<p>no, the academy DOES promote art and creativity, and most definitely thinking for yourself (if you’re interested check out ADM Mullen’s address to the class of 2008… “question leadership”).
i don’t know for sure, but i think art classes are probably “secondary, optional, and conditional” to use Navy2010’s favorite phrase.
just because there aren’t classes in a certain subject doesn’t mean it’s not promoted, nor can you associate photography classes or lack there of with “thinking for yourself”.
i would think that all of the character development and leadership seminars that the midn have to attend are more beneficial for promoting “thinking for yourself”.
and if you’re interested in creativity - check out Labrynth: [Labyrinth</a> - USNA’s Literary Magazine](<a href=“http://www.usna.edu/labyrinth/index.html]Labyrinth”>http://www.usna.edu/labyrinth/index.html)</p>