Administrators Have Seized the Ivory Tower (jamesgmartin.center)

Article summary

The article discusses the issue of administrative bloat in universities, with some commenters suggesting that administrators have become a self-serving class that prioritizes their own interests over the original mission of the institution. The article's argument is not fully available, but commenters infer that it critiques the role of administrators in universities. Some commenters argue that the term 'deep state' is not accurate in this context, while others see it as a useful concept for understanding bureaucratic dynamics. The discussion revolves around the tension between administrators and academics, with some arguing that administrators are necessary for the functioning of universities, while others see them as a hindrance to academic freedom and progress.

Main themes

• administrative bloat
• bureaucratic growth
• academic freedom
• university governance
• credentialism
• competition in higher education

What commenters say

• University administrators have become a self-serving class that prioritizes their own interests over the original mission of the institution.
• The concept of 'deep state' is not applicable to universities, as administrators are not a secretive network, but rather a bureaucratic class.
• Administrative bloat is a natural consequence of bureaucratic growth, and is not unique to universities.
• Competition is the only counterforce to bureaucratic growth, but it is often hindered by regulatory barriers and brand loyalty.
• The distinction between administrators who work with academics on the ground and those who work in executive offices is crucial, as the former are often more dedicated to the university's mission.
• The US university system is in need of a rethink, and the current bureaucratic structure is a major obstacle to progress.
• The credential monopoly held by universities is a major factor in their ability to maintain their current bureaucratic structure, and alternative forms of credentialing could disrupt this monopoly.