The Change and Development of Western University Concept

Universities have evolved alongside the advancement of human civilization. At different stages of social and historical development, universities have adopted distinct philosophies, thus shaping their unique characteristics and styles. The transformation and development of Western university philosophies have gone through three major historical phases: from the British model, which emphasized teaching and talent cultivation, to the German model, which focused on scientific research, and finally to the American model, which values teaching, scientific research, and social service. The establishment of modern university philosophies in China undoubtedly directly inherits the German model. For Chinese universities to become world-class institutions, they must effectively draw on Western university philosophies.