ABSTRACT
In this book, we have discussed the relationship between HEIs, regional development, and the knowledge-based economy from a variety of perspectives. The micro, meso, and macro perspectives are all present, as are the theoretical, empirical, and policy perspectives. These are necessary in order to understand the complexities of the subject. It is more than just a sector of the economy (or society) that is at issue. This book is about the role that HEIs can and should play in the development of the (regional) economy in twenty-first-century capitalism, i.e. the knowledge-based economy. Ultimately, it is also about the future of HEIs themselves. In the Middle Ages and during the Renaissance, there were few universities but all of them were key centres of learning, philosophy, and debate in society. Today, countless HEIs dot the globe but, with the exception of their educational role, many of them have managed to manoeuvre themselves to the margins of society. Nevertheless, HEIs consume a sizeable share of the gross national product in most (Western) nations. One day, society is going to ask whether or not this is necessary and what it receives in return. HEIs have to find a new role and move back to the centre of the economy and society. This book demonstrated the need for HEIs to change and showed some directions in which they can move. In this final chapter, on the basis of the various contributions in the book, we present a vision for a new role for HEIs and we offer a starting point for further debate.
