Abstract
A Lazarsfeldean, historical expert panel analysis of academic clientelism (vs universalism) is presented, drawing on events in the history of sociology at Columbia U (New York City). Features of the clientelistic model of higher education are sketched, noting that, while the US system is considered universalistic for top researchers, many elements of clientelism persist at lower levels. Anecdotal evidence of the internal machinations of the world-renowned Columbia school of sociology, directed intellectually & charismatically by Paul Lazarsfeld & Robert K. Merton, are offered. Lazarsfeld's derationalizing approach to funding for sociology research involved overcharging clients, demanded absolute intradepartmental loyalty, & reflected administrative nepotism. Yet Lazarsfeld simultaneously evoked universalistic social scientific norms. Parisian & French national higher education systems are compared with Columbia & US systems, 1940-1990, for degree of clientelism. 2 Tables, 32 References. J. Sadler