The Rise of Neoliberalism

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Educational institutions are judged based on return on investment mentality
Individuals are valued as producers rather than consumers
Purpose of school shifted to solely preparing students for job market
This shift in societal values began in the 70s and 80s with Reagan and Thatcher
Resulted in defunding of public universities and other profound consequences

William Deresiewicz is an American author, essayist, and critic. He taught English at Yale University from 1998 to 2008. He is the author, among other books, of Excellent Sheep: The Miseducation of the American Elite and the Way to a Meaningful Life.

In this week’s conversation, Yascha Mounk and William Deresiewicz discuss how the intensely meritocratic nature of elite universities prioritizes striving over deep learning; the instrumentalization of traditional pursuits to the detriment of mastery; and how broader cultural transformations frustrate deep immersion in art, friendship, and learning.

This transcript has been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.

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