Universities and Democracy: Purpose and Practice

What is the university for? This course investigates the historical and philosophical foundations of higher education and its role in shaping democratic society. Students will debate questions about free expression, intellectual liberty, and the balance between academic study and vocational preparation. Focusing on the American context, students will explore the history of higher education, competing visions of liberal learning, and the challenges of balancing intellectual freedom with professional training. Emphasis is placed on critical dialogue about the university as an institution, an ideal, and a community.