This article looks at knowledge production in higher education (HE) from the point of view of how a given HE institution defines itself within the broader context of "the idea of a university". In this regard, the article makes a critical analysis and interpretation of the literature on the central question of "the idea of a university", and the bearing of this on knowledge production. An overview of the history of universities is given, followed by a reflection on the literature pertaining to the notion of "the idea of a university". This is done so as to contextualise what presently obtains with regard to conceptual types of universities around the world "vis-a-vis" the attendant knowledge to be pursued in the institution. In this regard, the article posits that the primary purpose/focus of knowledge and knowledge production will be a function of the given university's idea of itself. (Contains 3 tables.)