Since World War II, American research universities have given rise to an unprecedented explosion of knowledge, knowledge that has directly improved the quality of life of Americans. Simultaneously, there has been an enormous broadening of access to higher education. American research universities attract students from across the country and around the globe. These same research universities, about 200 in number, are also the sites for preparing the next generation of university faculty. The remaining 3000 or so colleges and universities largely teach.
Teaching is a noble activity, maybe even saintly.
Teaching was the primary force that sent many of us to graduate school and ultimately to university faculty positions . . . But, of course, everyone reading this letter already knows all of this. Economic realities in America have, I believe, provided a rich arena for latent antiintellectualism and professional jealousies to arise. David Goodstein, Vice Provost of the California lastilute of Technology, wrote recently in the Los Angeles Times, about our current dilemma. A course correction is necessary for the University of Arizona, and we have already determined a new compass seffing.