The Worth of the University

Description

Published on the occasion of Richard C. Levin’s retirement as president of Yale University, this captivating collection of speeches and essays from the past decade reflects both his varied intellectual passions and his deep commitment to university life and leadership. Whether discussing the economic implications of climate change or speaking to an incoming class of Yale freshmen, he argues for the vital importance of scholarship and the critical role that universities play in educating students and promoting the overall well-being of our society. This collection is a sequel to The Work of the University, which contained the principal writings from Levin’s first decade as Yale’s president, and it enunciates many of the same enduring themes: forging a strong partnership with the city of New Haven, rebuilding Yale’s physical infrastructure, strengthening science and engineering, and internationalizing the university. But this companion volume also captures the essence of university leadership. In addressing topics as varied as his personal sources of inspiration, the development of Asian universities, and the university’s role in promoting innovation and economic growth, Levin challenges the reader to be more engaged, more creative, more innovative, and above all, a better global citizen. Throughout, his commitment to and affection for Yale shines through. Contents Introduction Sources of Inspiration Stanford and Yale Eliot of Harvard The Astonishing Joseph Stiglitz Repairing a Bicycle The Ornament of Our World Variety and Freedom: words for new students Encountering New Perspectives Back to School Friendship and Individuality Preparing for Global Citizenship The Questions That Matter Variety and Freedom Passion and Perseverance Seeing the Big Picture The Worth of the University The University in Service to Society Why Colleges and Universities Matter Universities and Cities Harnessing the Wind Rethinking College Admissions Rights and Responsibilities: Words for Graduates Reviving Public Discourse Curiosity, Independence, and Public Service Journeys Life on a Small Planet The Economy and the Human Spirit Reclaiming Politics Taking Responsibility The University as Global Citizen The Lesson of 9/11 Leading by Example Rising to the Challenge of Climate Change The American Research University and the Global Agenda The Development of Higher Education in Asia The Rise of Asia’s Universities Reform, Innovation, and Economic Growth in Japan The Role of Liberal Education in China’s Development Reflections on Economic Advance and Reform Confronting China’s Challenges Patents in Global Perspective Lessons from the Crisis of 2008