Part 7/7:
In conclusion, the discourse surrounding elite universities and their evolving role in society signals an urgent call for reform. As Zakaria and Maher poignantly highlight, the intersection of politics and education has led to an imbalance that threatens the very foundation of academic integrity. Moving forward, the restoration of merit-based practices and a commitment to open inquiry will be essential in reversing the current trends that threaten the future of American higher education. If elite universities can reclaim their identity as centers of excellence, perhaps they can once again earn the public's trust and admiration in a complex and changing world.