First published in 1987, this book offers an ideological critique of the new sociology of education, with the aim to redeem understanding of the social and historical character of knowledge. It argues that with an historical and social grasp, university knowledge can be understood as a collective product and can become a useful resource for encountering and transforming the social present.

To reach this objective, the book reviews the history of the new sociology of education and shows how it is limited by earlier times and social conflicts. In doing so, it aims to continue the unrealized critical analysis that was promised by the new sociology of education and remained contained.