Argues that universities are as well equipped as and more obligated than most other social institutions to listen to, understand, and respond to problems in American society. Suggests that the great universities of the 21st century will be judged by their ability to help solve the most urgent social problems. (SM)

Discusses how universities can serve the American city within the context of traditional university values, thus promoting change in a context of extraordinary institutional continuity. The paper examines the value of university-owned and operated public schools, explaining their effectiveness in addressing acute urban problems. (SM)