The decline in the quality of American higher education over the past several decades and the ramifications of this phenomena are discussed in this book. It is suggested that in responding to modern egalitarianism and the need to attract students, colleges and universities have initiated innovative programs, noncampuses, and nontraditional degrees that have lowered academic standards. It is also suggested that increased federal involvement in higher education is a crucial issue for educational quality. The relationship between government and higher education institutions is examined to underscore the idea that the profitability of higher education may have created many unworthy institutions. Discussed are: the formation of land grant colleges, the GI Bill, the space program, and other government-funded research programs. Although federal support has contributed to the improvement of higher education, caution is urged in allowing government bureaucracy, which may be unaware of the qualities characteristic to higher education institutions, to administer and influence colleges and universities. (SF)