Dark Side of Academia

Gayle Brewer is Professor of Psychology and Education at the University of Liverpool, UK. Professor Brewer has worked in higher education for over 20 years, and she informs Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion practice and policy on a national level. Professor Brewer has published over 100 journal articles and holds doctorates in both Psychology and Education.

“Anyone who has ever believed in meritocracy – that being good enough, working hard enough, and persevering long enough would be enough – should read The Dark Side of Academia. This powerful book exposes academia’s underbelly and makes a compelling case for confronting toxic cultures head-on.” Dr Jennifer Leigh, University of Kent“Like the dark side of the moon, academia hides shadows few dare to illuminate. Professor Brewer’s The Dark Side of Academia bravely exposes the systemic barriers so many marginalised colleagues face daily. Honest, unsettling, and empowering, this book gives voice to the silenced and demands change within the ivory tower.”Dr Hamied Haroon, Chair, National Association of Disabled Staff Networks (NADSN)“This is an essential read for anyone who wants to understand wellbeing in higher education. Professor Brewer’s book provides important insights into the challenges of working in a university and the impact of the numerous policies, metrics, and economic factors we face as a sector.”Dr Sue Wilbraham, University of Cumbria“Professor Brewer critically examines the dark side of academia through consideration of the challenges facing the profession. With particular emphasis on the experiences of marginalised staff and students and recommendations for positive change, this is a must-read for all in higher education.”Dr Faye Skelton, Edinburgh Napier University

• List of IllustrationsAcknowledgementsIntroductionChapter 1: Monitoring, Competition, and WorkloadChapter 2: Health, Wellbeing, and BurnoutChapter 3: Precarious Contracts, Doctoral Students, and Postdoctoral ResearchersChapter 4: Disability, Chronic Illness, and NeurodivergenceChapter 5: Gender, Parenting, and Sexual OrientationChapter 6: Race, Ethnicity, and CultureChapter 7: Bullying and IncivilityChapter 8: Sexual Harassment and ViolenceChapter 9: Conclusion and Additional ResourcesIndex