Jacob Howland on the Crisis of Higher Education and the University of Austin

John Henry Newman's "The Idea of a University" is a seminal work on higher education, exploring the nature of knowledge, the role of universities in society, and the importance of a liberal education. Newman emphasizes the pursuit of truth for its own sake, arguing that universities should foster intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. He highlights the unity of knowledge, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various disciplines. The book remains highly influential in shaping discussions about the purpose and function of universities. It's a classic text for anyone interested in the philosophy of education.

Written after his defection from Stalinist Poland in 1951, 'The Captive Mind' is a philosophical and political essay that explores the allure of Stalinism to intellectuals and the mechanisms of totalitarian control. Miłosz uses metaphorical portraits of four Polish writers (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta) to illustrate the universal human phenomena and attitudes towards totalitarianism. The book critiques the philosophical systems of Marxism and Hegelian historical determinism, highlighting the internal longing for harmony and happiness that can lead individuals to submit to such regimes. It also discusses the personal and psychological costs of living under totalitarian rule, including the transformation of 'free minds' into instruments of the state[1][2][4].