Fatal Attraction: A Critical Analysis of the Toxic Love Affair of the University and Neoliberalism
This article analyzes some of the impact of neoliberalism on higher education in the US. Our colleges and universities are under significant pressure from neoliberalism. I offer an extended definition of neoliberalism. I then move to general ways neoliberalism has influenced the academy. Next, I highlight three critical ways neoliberalism has penetrated and subverted the academy: the preeminence of college athletics in many of our colleges and universities, the defunding and de-prioritization of the humanities and social sciences, and the overall commodification of higher education. In addition, I explicate other concerns that cascade from these three areas. The article concludes with a vision for a better future of higher education.
