The notion that universities are the main intellectual hubs of a nation has become outdated, as many now view them as stagnant and unproductive. This assertion reflects a broader criticism of academia, suggesting that it has lost its leading role in fostering groundbreaking ideas and research.

Since the end of World War II, significant advancements and discoveries have predominantly emerged from private laboratories rather than traditional educational institutions. This shift highlights a changing landscape in how knowledge and innovation are generated, moving away from universities as the primary sources of intellectual progress.