The History of the University of Oxford: Volume VIII: The Twentieth Century

Download or read book The History of the University of Oxford: Volume VIII: The Twentieth Century written by Brian Harrison and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 1994-04-07 with total page 950 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: 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.