Toward a More Perfect University

Toward a More Perfect University by Jonathan R. Cole, published by PublicAffairs on January 26, 2016, is a comprehensive examination of the evolution of American universities. This 409-page book addresses the challenges that higher education faces in the twenty-first century, focusing on how institutions can maintain their global preeminence while enhancing their intellectual and social missions. Cole, a former provost and current University Professor at Columbia University, outlines critical areas for development, including admission policies, examination effectiveness, and the centrality of undergraduate education.

Readers will find a thorough analysis of various issues impacting modern universities, such as rising costs, the role of the humanities, and the need for innovation in research and governance. Cole also discusses the importance of academic freedom and the implications of sports within the university context. This edition provides insights into the aims and objectives of higher education, making it a relevant resource for those interested in education administration and the future of academic institutions.