Many analysts feel that the British higher educational system is in a state of crisis. Though some think it is the the best in the world, others believe it is ill-suited to approach tomorrow's needs. This volume describes the problem and explains the causes for academic power's decline and the increase in the power of students and industry as consumers of education and research. Halsey's arguments are supported by surveys which chart the development of academic opinion in polytechnics and universities. They reveal low morale, disappointment, and resentment--all combined with a persistent belief in the British ideal of a university.