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Related Experiment Videos

The passing of 'the Prof'.

Gordon Parker1

  • 1Gordon Parker, MBBS, MD, PhD, DSc, FRANZCP, University of New South Wales; Black Dog Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia.

The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|February 3, 2016
PubMed
Summary

The 20th-century professor archetype is fading, becoming an emeritus figure. This article fondly recalls these professors and examines the factors contributing to their decline.

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Area of Science:

  • Higher education studies
  • Sociology of academia
  • History of academic roles

Background:

  • The traditional "Professor" (Prof) archetype, prevalent in the 20th century, is nearing obsolescence.
  • This figure represented a specific era and style of academic leadership and scholarship.
  • The article reflects on the characteristics and contributions of this historical academic role.

Discussion:

  • Examining the societal and institutional shifts that have led to the decline of the archetypal professor.
  • Analyzing the evolving demands on academics, including research output, administrative duties, and public engagement.
  • Considering the impact of changing university structures and funding models on academic roles.

Key Insights:

  • The "Prof" as a 20th-century academic archetype is now largely an emeritus figure.
  • Several key processes have contributed to the diminishing presence of this traditional academic model.
  • A fond remembrance of this era of professorship is offered.

Outlook:

  • Understanding the historical trajectory of academic roles provides context for current and future professorial models.
  • The extinction of the archetypal professor signals a transformation in higher education.
  • Further research could explore the emergence of new academic archetypes and their societal impact.

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