The Problem with University Research

The Chronicle of Higher Education recently covered a story about the priorities of university research.  The publication cites examples that reflect a growing problem in this area: schools are using their research to make money and neglecting obligations to translate their work to provide the greatest benefit to society.

Two professors from Arizona State University provided insight to this issue.  According to David Guston, a professor of politics and global studies, “There are a whole host of things that are important that may not have markets.”  Just because a particular area of research may not be as easy to monetize, does not mean there is no value in studying it. 

Brendan Allenby a professor of engineering and ethics also commented, saying that although a few institutions like ASU seek to reward outcomes-based accomplishments, these concepts are so engrained in academia as a whole that it can be dangerous to get involved in projects that, “peers aren’t going to recognize as academically valid.”