Transformation of University, Between Residues and Derivations

Pareto’s dichotomy of residues and derivations can help understand whether the adherence to facts  as outlined in Transformation of Democracy (1921)  may be useful in the analysis of the current transformation of universities, so as to cope with the countless drawbacks that came to light soon after the introduction of the 1999 double degree system, that has deeply changed academic life. Normative discourses seem to fuel some argumentative derivations aimed at stifling academic residues (sentiments and individualism) nowadays still determining university policies. This is a sociological approach highlighting the permanent reformist process supporting rationalization and inclusion, in order to replace the erratic (and sometimes illogic) policies implemented by our early university system. To the fore is the gist of rationalization inspiring the reformist process that Italian universities are handling in order to promote merit, efficiency, transparency and proper evaluation. Hence recent functional transformations have reduced the autonomy of universities and increased centralization, for the purpose of tackling some of the drawbacks and flaws affecting the academic sphere over the last two decades.