Neoliberalism and Higher Education

Neoliberalism refers to trends and logic underpinned by a specific economic discourse, signifying a set of macro market–driven developments such as marketization, privatization, consumerism, and a human capital development emphasis. The neoliberal state plays a significant role in creating the conditions, laws, and institutions necessary for market operations. Neoliberalism also refers to an ensemble of economic arguments (i.e., logic) making certain material practices and policies intelligible, practicable, and governable. Economic rationality becomes the overarching frame for understanding, evaluating, and governing social life.

According to neoliberal logic, society should produce self-enterprising individuals solely interested in enhancing their human capital. The object of intervention in neoliberal efforts is the individual subject within social institutions, rather than society or the state. The following sections address [Page 1077]the effects of ...