Abstract

ORDORIKA, Imanol  and  LLOYD, Marion. Critical Theories of State and the dispute over higher education in the era of globalization. Perfiles educativos [online]. 2014, vol.36, n.145, pp.122-139. ISSN 0185-2698.

The authors of this work have, for some time, addressed the study of change in higher education institutions from a political sociological perspective, and based on theories on the State and power. A re-politicization of universities can be identified due, in large part, to the new competing demands that generate structural tensions: to produce skilled manpower for the global market, to take a leading role in promoting the "knowledge economy," and to democratize access for disadvantaged groups, among other requirements. In this context, the authors argue that it is even more necessary to analyze this institutions from a theoretical framework which takes into account the power relations within and without these institutions. Finally, an analytical perspective focused on hegemony is proposed, which permits increased understanding of the major changes facing higher education institutions in the era of globalization.

Keywords : Critical theory; State; Higher education; Globalization; Hegemony; Conflict and power.