Offers an insider's account of the university system, an alternative view to that overwhelmingly presented to the general public. This work argues that fewer and fewer students are experiencing their university education in ways expected by their parents and the public.

The majority of students are hampered by insufficient preparation at the secondary school level, lack of personal motivation, and disillusionment. Contrary to popular opinion, there is no administrative or governmental procedure in place to maintain standards of education. "Ivory Tower Blues" is an in-depth look at the crisis facing Canadian and American universities, the factors that are precipitating the situation, and the long-term impact this crisis will have on the quality of higher education.