New Social Conditions for Swedish University Teachers

Abstract

In a global context, higher education is treated as a natural part of contemporary political and economic processes. Some researchers call it “academic capitalism.” On the European continent, policymakers are responding to these processes by standardizing and leveling the higher education system – calling it the Bologna Process. In addition, higher education as a part of the public sector is managed by new public management principles. Against the background of these processes from a Deleuzian perspective, I will reflect on mandatory pedagogical courses in Sweden as an expression of contemporary policies and economy, and thus search for the new social conditions for Swedish university teachers. What is the new expected social relation between university teachers and students? What new expected professional behaviors are produced?” The concluding remarks will draw particular attention to the production of expectations within higher education as a part of the Swedish labor market.