Synopses & Reviews
This volume, the eighth in The History of the University of Oxford, shows how one of the world's major universities has responded to the formidable challenges offered by the twentieth century. Because Oxford's response has not taken a revolutionary or dramatic form, outside observers have not always appreciated the scale of its transformation. Here full attention is given to the forces for change: the rapid growth in provision for the natural and social sciences; the advance of professionalism in scholarship, sport, and cultural achievement; the diffusion of international influences through Rhodes scholars, two world wars, and the University's mounting research priorities; the growing impact of government and of public funding; the steady advance of women; and the impact made by Oxford's broadened criteria for undergraduate admission. The volume also provides valuable background material for the discussion of educational policy. In short, its presents the reader with a rich cornucopia of insight into many aspects of British life.
Review
"Its depth, variety, readability, and authority make this volume indispensable to all students of higher education and modern British life."--Choice
"The 24 contributors to this eighth volume all write with a wealth of information, and most of them with a critical insight which makes this monumental work far from being a complacent brochure of self praise."--The Daily Telegraph
"(This) volume constantly displays the skill and learning of its editor. Elsewhere, Keith Thomas provides a fascinating review of college life as experienced by him, and J.M. Winter introduces the process of change in Oxford by an important account of the impact of the First World War. Fine chapters are many. The heft of the volume and its riches mean that it will provide materials and ideas for a long time to come."--Albion