Professor of Political Science and Director of The Moynihan Center Carlo Invernizzi Accetti recently published an article on elite American universities in the Financial Times. In it, Accetti argues that elite American universities have increasingly prioritised research prestige, rankings, and grant income over undergraduate teaching and civic education. While this shift has elevated global standing, it has also weakened institutions’ connection to students, communities and the broader public they serve.
This imbalance has left universities more exposed to political pressure and cultural backlash. As public trust erodes, critics find it easier to portray higher education as detached, self-interested, and out of step with democratic needs.
Accetti argues that restoring a stronger focus on teaching, community engagement, and the civic purpose of higher education would not only improve student outcomes, but also rebuild legitimacy. Reclaiming this mission could help universities better defend academic freedom, and democracy itself.
Read the full article here.
