Sociology ETDs

Publication Date

7-28-1975

Abstract

A causal model was developed to explain faculty receptivity to radical academic ideology. Hypotheses derived from a synthesis of a simple isomorphic theory of ideology and Smelser's value-added theory were tested concerning the causal dependence of radical academic values on structural alienation and powerlessness in the academic system. The resulting model was tested with data obtained from a survey sample of faculty members at the University of New Mexico. Utilizing six empirical variables designed to reflect structural alienation factors (academic longevity, academic achievement, rank, tenure, prestige of field, and career continuities), a path analysis was conducted to assess the causal impact of these variables on faculty members' academic value orientation, both directly and as mediated by the variable of powerlessness. This original model was rejected and a revised model was proposed which included only tenure, prestige of field, and career continuities as independently causal structural variables. Evaluation of this model showed the effects of structural alienation factors on radical academic values to be totally mediated through a subjective sense of powerlessness. The final model appears to be consistent with the implications of Smelser's value-­added theory, but refutes the simple isomorphic theory's implication of direct effects of structural factors on academic value orientations.

Degree Name

Sociology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Sociology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Harold Charles Meier

Second Committee Member

George Arthur Huaco

Third Committee Member

Gilbert Wilson Merks

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Download

Included in

Sociology Commons

Share

COinS