University: identity crisis In Krytyka, No. 3 (65), 2003, pp. 8-15.

The article analyzes the phenomenon of the university in global and Ukrainian contexts. Mykhailo Minakov examines this phenomenon based on Jean-François Lyotard's concept of scientific pragmatism. The author emphasizes that, despite historical transformations and cultural differences, the essence of the university is determined by a rational-scientific ideal—knowledge for the sake of knowledge. Therefore, key changes in university institutions are associated with the weakening of the influence of this ideal and the growing dependence of the academic environment on sociocultural and political factors.

         On a global scale, according to the author's observations, there is a constant tension between the cognitive goals of the university and social interests, which has led, in particular, to the Humboldtian reform, the subordination of universities to financial institutions, and a gradual transition to the technological logic of knowledge.

         In the Ukrainian context, Minakov emphasizes the historical imbalance between faculties, especially the marginalization of the philosophy faculty, as well as the strong social and political pressure on university autonomy. This pressure, in his opinion, manifests itself in a shortage of financial resources and the significant dependence of academic interests on state bodies.