The book explores the intricate relationship between schooling and politics, emphasizing that education is influenced by various social forces while also striving to shape future societies. Steven Brint utilizes a rich array of comparative examples to illustrate how different educational systems worldwide reflect and respond to political dynamics, revealing the complex interplay between schools and the broader societal context.
The Changing Roles of Professionals in Politics and Public Life
The book examines the emergence of a highly educated professional class in America since the 1960s, challenging the notion that this group has a unique influence on cultural values and politics. It argues that the political preferences of professionals align more closely with those of business owners and executives than previously thought, suggesting that the perceived distinctiveness of their values has been exaggerated. This analysis provides a nuanced perspective on the relationship between education, profession, and political ideology.
Focusing on the years 1980-2015, Brint details the trajectory of American universities, which was influenced by evolving standards of disciplinary professionalism, market-driven partnerships, and the goal of social inclusion.