The problematic relationship of knowledge and social-political power, as it affects the standings and justification of educational authority, is probed. Ways in which knowledge claims may legitimately support some forms of authority in practice are discussed. (CB)

Leadership strategies that encourage voluntary compliance are compared with those that are more assertive and demanding. Specific problems and possibilities challenging those who would lead movements of institutional reform are outlined. (CB)

Ways in which institutions may either foster or frustrate the kinds of beliefs and attitudes conducive to self-respect and self-esteem are explored. Patterns of authority in the schools of a democratic society must be examined with this fact in mind and shaped in ways that most fully develop the self-respect and self-esteem of all students. (CB)

Describes the advantages of charter schools, which are started by individuals or groups in the community and can set their own educational agendas and goals. More states are passing or expanding charter school laws every year. Benefits include autonomy, site-based management, increased parental involvement, and increased teacher control.…

Two recent studies suggest that the role of the principal is indeed affected by collective bargaining, so that principals lose autonomy and take on new responsibilities. Four references are provided. (DCS)

Academics in both the industrial world and developing countries face funding declines, growing state intervention, public hostility, and corporate pressure. Simultaneously, they are experiencing internal wars over policy, curriculum, and nature of scholarly communities. In North America debates about academic freedom center on tenure and free…

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)

In 1994 the state of New Jersey deregulated the state higher education structure and created a new commission on higher education and a presidents' council. This report presents the findings of a 1998 survey that sought to determine the extent to which the goals of the deregulatory legislation had been achieved and whether the fears of the act's…