Despite soaring tuition rates, universities in the United States say they’re more cash-strapped than ever. Feeling the pinch, they are increasingly turning to the private industry for financial help.

An old question is assuming new importance — Is higher education really about intellectual inquiry or has it primarily become the vehicle for students to find well-paying jobs and universities to make big bucks doing research for private companies?

“University, Inc.,” a new expose of the academic-industrial complex, documents how corporate funding that comes with strings attached is affecting every aspect of academic life to the detriment of the students it’s supposed to serve.

Hear a conversation about what corporations’ increased role in higher education means for students and the country.

Guests:

Jennifer Washburn, author of “University, Inc.: The Corporate Corruption of Higher Education.” On Feb 24, 2005 at 7 pm, she will speak and sign her book at the Boston University Bookstore (617-267-8484). On Feb. 25, 2005 at 3 pm, she will speak and sign her book at the Harvard Bookstore (617-661-1515).;

Mark Yudof, University of Texas system chancellor;

Jack Beatty, On Point news analyst and senior editor of the Atlantic Monthly.