Abstract:

This paper explores the changes that are taking place in European higher education: a shift from the Humboldtian notion of the university to one that operates under quasi-market pressures. While increasing the culture of accountability in universities, this development, linked to shifts in their sponsorship and associated 'missions', is associated with an erosion of traditional mechanisms of trust. The focus is on UK experience, which is now extending internationally. Lessons are drawn on some of the institutional changes and problems that may lie ahead for European universities.

Keywords: audit culture; audit society; knowledge; trust; higher education; university; research

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1080/1461669042000327063

Affiliations: 1: Selwyn College Cambridge UK