Careers for Academics and the Future Production of Knowledge

Abstract

The paradox of the current knowledge explosion and a predicted generation gap of new scholars is analyzed with regard to its consequences, the evidence relating to the essential conditions for knowledge production, the realities of opportunities for young Ph.D.s, their need in the growth of disciplines, and the possible courses of action for dealing with a serious problem. The historical record was not found to be especially helpful. Analysis of studies on the personal and organizational characteristics related to scholarly productivity identified critical variables. The gloomy forecasts for academic openings were acknowledged, although contradictions in the reported data call for more careful examination. Two of the proposed solutions hold some promise for mitigating a future hiatus in the growth of knowledge and in the solution of critical social problems.