Why Universities Matter

The essays in this volume are contributions to a conversation provoked by the far-reaching changes to universities brought about by 15 years of Australian federal government "initiatives". The voices raised in the book are disputatious, sceptical, passionate and analytical. The reader will find variety in approach, in intent and in the experience brought to bear on each essay. The contributors, drawn from the sciences, humanities and social sciences, are well-versed in issues of university management: most are professors, many have served as head of department and one has been a vice-chancellor. Together, the essays do not present any "line". Rather, their meeting ground is a common concern about the ideals and values embodied in universities and the purposes universities have served, are now forced to serve and should serve. In light of this concern, they cast a sharp eye upon the policies, values and rhetoric that drive developments in contemporary Australian universities.