The theory and practice of the Business University have been around a long time. E P Thompson’s Warwick University Ltd (1970) is now a classic foundation text.
Sunak’s latest Election plan to abolish ‘low value degrees’ fits well with his status as the richest MP in Parliament. His idea is that the only reason to go to University is to enhance career prospects and hence salary.
Many myself included believe in a different principle-that of a liberal education. That is in gaining and exploring ideas and knowledge because it generally enhances the sum of humanity. My first degree did allow me to get a position in the civil service back in the day (subject of the degree was irrelevant). My PhD is probably essential for convening the socialist history seminar at the Institute of Historical Research. It has no relevance of note to my actual paid employment.
If I had to name a low value degree it would be PPE. It is of course high value in Sunak’s world because it can lead to a good and well paid job. Much of the knowledge it imparts does not in many cases seem to add to the general enlightment of humanity. It fails the liberal education test in many cases
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