Nicholas Dirks, former Chancellor of UC Berkeley and author of "City of Intellect," delves into the current crises facing universities. He discusses soaring costs, declining enrollments, and the impact of Trump's policies on research funding. The conversation highlights the tension between donor influence and academic freedom, as well as the socioeconomic divides in elite education. Dirks also explores the necessity for universities to adapt to evolving demands, particularly regarding online learning and the enduring value of humanities education amid rising AI trends.

Nicholas Dirks, President and CEO of the New York Academy of Sciences, discusses challenges in maintaining academic freedom, faculty governance, and student activism in universities. They explore the balance between research and teaching, fostering interdisciplinary studies, and adapting to the demands of the 21st century while preserving academic freedom and intellectual debate.

Nicholas Dirks, former Chancellor of UC Berkeley, discusses the challenges and criticisms facing higher education, including free speech, rising costs, and administrative bloat. They explore the role of universities in providing education and access, rethinking credentials, and the debate over the SAT in college admissions. They also touch on the challenges faced by UC Berkeley and the concept of safety in universities.