a book of uncon1mon
s
e n
s
rescribing
the Life of the Mind
An Essay on
the Purpose of the University,
the Aims of Liberal Educa tion,
the Competence of Citizens,
and the Cultivation of
Practical Reason
CHARLES
W.
ANDERSON
e
What arc the purposes of the university? What shou ld be the
aims of liberal education? With phrases like "cultura l relativ–
ism," "political correctness," "cu ltural literacy," and "canon
wars" buzzing through the halls of academia and of govern–
ment, and appearing almos t daily in heated public debates,
these arc important questions. With good will and common
sense, Charles W. Anderson argues that teaching studen ts to
think, by developing thei r capacity for practical reason, can
provide a unifying mission for the university and an integrat–
ing theme for the curriculum.
"An
excellent new starting point for public discus–
sion of the contemporary university. No university presi–
dent, provost, or dean should be allowed to hold office until
she or he has passed an examination on this book."
-Alasdair MacIntyre, University of Notre Dame
$22.95
THE UNIVERSITY OF
WISCONSIN PRESS
114 N. Murray St., Madison, WI 53715-1199
Me
&
VISA (608) 262-8782 • FAX (608) 262-7560
At fine bookstores, or order directly from the Press.
