This volume of 10 chapters written by various analysts explores the politicization of higher education since World War II, the tensions and conflicts that trend has created, and arguments regarding the reasons why institutions of higher education need and should have government aid. The foreword by Nathan Glazer addresses these issues. An introduction by the editor, John W. Sommer, is titled "American Higher Education: State of the Art or Art of the State?" Four chapters look at the politicization of higher education: "The Evolution of American Higher Education" (Roger E. Meiners); "In Service to the State: The Political Context of Higher Education in the United States" (Joel H. Spring); "Federal Student Aid: A History and Critical Analysis" (C. Ronald Kimberling); and "Higher Education, the Individual, and the Humane Sciences" (Antony Flew). Three papers examine the political economy of higher education: "The Economics of Higher Education" (Edwin G. West); "The Economics of Fundamental Research" (Stephen P. Dresch); and "Property Rights in Academe" (Roger E. Meiners and Robert J. Staaf). A final section looks at scientific research and political economy in three papers: "Normative and Positive Theories of Science and Technology Policy" (Peter H. Aranson); "Science and Technology for Economic Ends" (Joseph P. Martino); and "Universities and the Training of Scientists" (Cotton M. Lindsay). Includes an index and information on the contributors. (Most papers contain references.) (JB)