The University as European Cultural Heritage: A Historical Approach1

1. About fifteen years ago, the Council of Europe decided to include universities in its campaign: “Europe, A Common Patrimony”. The author of this article had the privilege to participate as an expert in the preparation work on “University as European Cultural Heritage”, under the efficient coordination of Nuria Sanz and Sjur Bergan.

Abstract

The purpose of this contribution is to show that the current discussions about the world of higher education often have a long history, and that it is generally easier to understand current events knowing their origins. This is why the author will stress facts and evolutions of some significance for the present higher education institutions, such as the relations with authorities, confessional, cultural, and political influences, the concept of academic freedom, and the social function.

1. About fifteen years ago, the Council of Europe decided to include universities in its campaign: “Europe, A Common Patrimony”. The author of this article had the privilege to participate as an expert in the preparation work on “University as European Cultural Heritage”, under the efficient coordination of Nuria Sanz and Sjur Bergan.

Notes

1. About fifteen years ago, the Council of Europe decided to include universities in its campaign: “Europe, A Common Patrimony”. The author of this article had the privilege to participate as an expert in the preparation work on “University as European Cultural Heritage”, under the efficient coordination of Nuria Sanz and Sjur Bergan.