Does the present level of public unhappiness with the conduct of governance offer an opportunity to revisit the quality of public policy making and the pernicious role of ideology? In this article I argue that there are some strong parallels between academic enquiry and public policy making, and that a better understanding of the former could lead…

This article examines the interplay between universities and governments, within the context of recent changes in the Australian higher education system. The Australian government is urged to fund institutions adequately and encourage diversity. Australian universities are urged to defend their autonomy and distinctive educational missions. (DB)

The article examines changes in British funding policies under the Education Reform Act of 1988 to stress competitive bidding by higher education institutions. The methodology and theory of the new approach are explained, as is the concept of equilibria in decision theory underlying the approach. Noted also are responses of institutions. (DB)