Higher Education and the American Dream

Readable, cogent explanation of how the U.S. can have the best system of higher education in the world, but also a system that seems to be coming apart at the seams.-Susan Fuhrman, President Teachers College, Columbia University, President of the National Academy of Education

In prose remarkable for its clarity and analysis remarkable for its fair-mindedness, this volume delivers a penetrating, nuanced account of American universities in the twenty-first century. Blessedly without rant or cant, the book tackles topics that range from the rise of the managerial class to the failed attempts to reform practice in the classroom. It's a smart provocation-a must-read for anyone who cares about where our universities are heading.-David L. Kirp, Professor at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California Berkeley

Professor Lazerson gives an insightful account of American higher education based on years of study and first-hand experience. He discusses both the problems and the accomplishment of our universities with equal care and thus, succeeds in providing a useful and illuminating analysis.-Derek Bok, Harvard University, President-emeritus

Marvin Lazerson's magnificent book is not only comprehensive, but it is written from an all-embracing point of view: seeing higher education in America as an expression of the American Dream. This book should be on the reading list of all who want to understand America's actions, role and image in the world today.-Yehuda Elkana, Rector and President-emeritus, Central European University

Examines the tremendous growth and increasing importance and prestige of American institutions of higher education. His critique is a wise one and should be attended to by those in positions to address the issues.-Mary Patterson McPherson, Executive Officer, American Philosophical Society, President-emeritus, Bryn Mawr College, Member of the Board of Trustees at CEU

Marvin Lazerson is Professor of Higher Education in the Department of Public Policy, Central European University and Professor Emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania. A member of the National academy of education and a distinguished educational scholar and teacher, he has taught at Harvard University, Stanford University, and the University of British Columbia. At Penn, he served as Dean of the Graduate School of education and as the University's Interim Provost.