The Soul of a University - by Chris Brink (Paperback)

About the Book

How can we re-establish universities' social purpose? The solution lies with asking not only 'what are we good at?', but also 'what are we good for?'. Chris Brink shows how universities can - and should - promote positive social change.

Book Synopsis

How can we re-establish universities' social purpose? The solution lies with asking not only 'what are we good at?', but also 'what are we good for?'. Chris Brink shows how universities can - and should - promote positive social change.

Review Quotes

"This is a profoundly original and inspirational book, written with erudition, wit and uncompromising integrity. It is a joy to read." Nicola Dandridge Chief Executive, Office for Students

''This important book...by one of South Africa's leading mathematicians and a major figure in South Africa's educational transformation from apartheid, deserves wide discussion among educators, administrators, policymakers, students and the broader public.'' South African Journal of Science-- "South African Journal of Science"

'This fine book by a wise, mathematical vice-chancellor makes the argument against university "excellence" as a single goal...the university must protect its "soul'' [and] change itself and society for the better in many dimensions.'' Transactions of the Royal Society of South Africa-- "Transactions of the Royal Society of South Africa"

About the Author

Professor Chris Brink was Vice-Chancellor of Newcastle University from 2007 till 2016 and previously held senior positions in universities across the world. A distinguished academic and a member of the Russell Group and the National Equality Challenge Unit boards, Professor Brink is a champion of the idea of a civic university.