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The former provost of Columbia University explores the vital role of America’s research universities as engines of technological and economic growth—and illuminates the urgent need to protect them
Many current books on higher education emphasize the problems and urge transformation. Sociologist Cole (former provost & currently John Mason Mitchell Professor of the University, Columbia Univ.) has a different goal. He believes that the American research university is the best in the world and in need of renewed support to maintain its extensive contributions to a strong and prosperous society. Cole effectively conveys a three-part argument, starting with a history of U.S. higher education and noting the factors that led to the rise of numerous excellent institutions after World War II. His central section summarizes the vast range of discoveries emerging from research universities to enrich American life, from science to medicine, electronics, and food production, and the insights we gain from the humanities and social sciences. Last, he describes the threats to this vital American resource, including invidious public and governmental threats to academic freedom and serious underfunding, and he calls for the reactivation of the partnership among universities, government, and industry. VERDICT Cole has amassed extensive information to make a convincing case. Highly recommended, particularly for those interested in American history, social institutions, and public policy, as well as those working in higher education.—Elizabeth R. Hayford, emerita, Associated Coll. of the Midwest, Evanston, IL
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Mrandy Shannon
reviewed The Great American University: Its Rise to Preeminence, Its Indispensable National Role, Why It Must Be Protected on January 22, 2018
The Great American University: Its Rise to Preeminence, Its Indispensable National Role, Why It Must Be Protected
Three books in one. The "Rise to Preeminence" is a often-done history of American research universities, but it does include a few details that aren't covered as heavily elsewhere. "Indispensable National Role" is a list of the many university discoveries that go under-appreciated by the general public and legislators. Of course, universities contributed to many scientific and technological changes in the 20th century. Finally, "why it must be protected" is the most interesting part. Cole is firmly critical of American higher ed and also an irrational fan-boy. I think he is spot-on to chide universities for group-think, failure to vigorously defend academic freedom, and for a lack of enthusiasm regarding societal problems. However, the almost mandatory call for large funding increases seems both hopelessly utopian to those outside of university and also completely unhelpful to those inside the academy. Telling higher education that they deserve more money lets them off the hook on improvements until that big pot of money appears. Higher ed institutions need to make changes now - they don't need an excuse to wait for money that is highly unlikely to ever materialize.
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