Through examination of the conditions and possibilities underlying and affecting universities, Understanding the University offers an understanding of specific ideas of the university which can inform policies, strategies and practices in relation to the university. It is a must read for leaders and senior managers in universities , as well as those undertaking postgraduate studies in the policy and practice of higher education.

Acknowledgements

Introduction

Part 1: Planes of understanding

1. Reading the university
2. The great hole
3. Three planes of understanding

Part 2: The antagonistic university

4. Antagonisms
5. Seven forms of dialectic

Part 3: Glimpsing spaces

6. The possibility of possibilities
7. An inevitable remainder
8. The real thing
9. Holding together

Part 4: Positive moments

10. Universals and particulars
11. The university as agent
12. Work for the visionaries

Coda: On not living in the ruins

Notes

Bibliographic note

Bibliography

Index

Ronald Barnett is Emeritus Professor of Higher Education, University College London Institute of Education.