Student Revolt in 1968: France, Italy and West Germany

Student Revolt in 1968 explores the origins, course, and dissolution of student protests at three universities in the 1960s, tracing how they catalysed a dynamic protest movement and clashed with differing visions of democratization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 311 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Student Revolt in 1968 delves into the genesis, trajectory, and eventual dissolution of student protests across three universities in the 1960s: the Freie Universität Berlin in West Germany, the campus of Nanterre in France, and the Faculty of Sociology at Trento in Italy. By examining the fervent clashes over space, speech, sociology, and cultural democratization, this study unravels the intricate tapestry that sparked a transformative protest movement within universities during the mid-1960s. These protests, which erupted in a dramatic fashion in 1968, extended far beyond the confines of the university, igniting a wave of social and political change that reverberated across the globe.

Within the realm of democratization, divergent visions emerged, each vying for dominance. On one hand, there were those who championed the idea of mass access to education, envisioning a society where knowledge and opportunities were available to all. On the other hand, there were those who sought to dismantle the hierarchical structures of high culture, advocating for a more egalitarian and inclusive approach to culture. Additionally, there were those who demanded democratic control over the university, seeking to wrest power from the hands of the establishment and empower students as active participants in the educational process.

These competing visions of democratization clashed and competed in a radical reevaluation of the very essence of university education and democratic culture. The study delves into the most ambitious experiments in higher education during the 1960s, specifically the Critical Universities of West Berlin and Trento. These institutions aimed to establish democratic control over higher education, challenging the traditional hierarchies and power structures. However, their aspirations were ultimately intertwined with the politics of social revolution, leading to their dissolution amidst the tumultuous backdrop of the 1960s.

Through a fresh and insightful lens, Student Revolt in 1968 provides a comprehensive examination of the 1960s, shedding light on the complex interplay between student protests, democratization, and social revolution. It offers valuable insights into the historical context of the era, the challenges faced by students and universities, and the enduring impact of these movements on the world. By exploring the origins, course, and dissolution of student protest in 1968, this study contributes to our understanding of the transformative power of education and the role of students in shaping the course of history.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108735957