ABSTRACT
Many countries are looking for a new definition of academic work in a changing environment. Reassessment by policy-makers and opinion leaders of the professoriates role in teaching and research is also widespread. Professors in a number of countries are being asked to be more entrepreneurial, for example, in bringing research grants and contracts to their institutions. Northern Europe also has been spared significant cuts, even though the economies of countries such as Germany and Sweden have experienced recession, clearly showing that there is not a necessary relationship between economic trends and higher education policy. Israel experienced cuts in higher education funding so severe that the professors engaged in a lengthy strike. Female and junior faculty are less likely to be satisfied with their circumstances than are male and senior professors. This international profile of the academic profession shows a complex web of attitudes and values.
