La tercera función

Abstract

Universities have a third function in addition to teaching and research; cultural dissemination. This may also be called cultural popularization, or included in cultural extension, according to the practices of the institution. This function has an indefinite nature, but its legal basis rests on the right to culture. It is, however, vulnerable to the budget and market considerations which are eroding public universities in Latin America. The trend towards cultural homogeneity, championed by globalization, threatens national cultures. Latin American universities must incorporate urban cultural centrality as an alternative way to seek modernity without losing their countries' own original cultures.