Solidarity and University – an Introduction to the Special Issue

There are many ways in which university is conceived of today. One of the most common discourses revolve around performativity, measurable accountability, excellence, learning outcomes and commodification of knowledge. The other path refers to a narrative of innovations, the story in which research can bring about a real change in the world, that the creative spirit that comes with inquiring uncharted territories leads to civilisational progress and prepares students to an ever-changing reality. Yet, another perspective relates to the critique of the traditional, semi-feudal and anti-egalitarian institutional culture of university. All these paths, and others alike, pertain to a monochromatic and exhaustive imaginary of the university. As if all students and academics were the same and united in pursuing one common goal.