Changing Understandings of 'Public' and 'Private' in Higher Education: the United Kingdom Case

摘要: Where does higher education in the United Kingdom sit today terms of public–private distinction, and what that distinction mean context? This article considers these questions related issues, noting how particular example compares with other systems internationally. Following a historical exploration meaning 'public', 'private' terms, an examination is undertaken their currency during post-war period UK system. exemplified through analysis two major British reports last 50 years – Robbins Report 1963 Dearing 1997. It argued contemporary system could be seen as suffering from worst both worlds, trapped between seemingly contrary pressures privatisation nationalisation.