After extensive thought regarding the men, ideas and institutions with which he has been familiar all his life, the author summarizes in one short sentence what he believes to be a first approximation to the idea of the university: The aim of the university is to educate all qualified adults towards scientific attitude by their active participation in scientific research. Apart from a "correction term" used later in the work, the author takes this definition as axiomatic, subsequently investigating and expounding on the following basic concepts: 1) scientific research, 2) active participation, 3) scientific attitude, 4) all qualified adults, and 5) educating towards. Subjects covered include the purpose of the university, the intellectual significance of mathematics, general studies, examinations and tests, Bachelor, Master and Doctor degrees, and relations to society. An excellent supplementary text for students and professionals in the field of higher education.
