Academia as a league system

Abstract In this paper, we explain the stability of top university ranks and discuss attempts to create national universities. Firstly, it is shown theoretically that in a world with differently-gifted poor rich students, three-tier system may become very stable, super league best research universities attract whether or poor. Secondly, empirically demonstrated half highest ranked enjoy stable competitive advantages. Thirdly, examine China, France Germany overcome these disadvantages get into league. The recent attempt China such shows financial societal costs attempts. demonstrates how concentration resources on two newly built complement forces existing ones—either real only by labelling—may succeed. Despite complexly designed German Excellence Initiative, ongoing since 2004, no was among 50 Shanghai ranking 2021 (compared one 2004). mixed results all worldwide reflect problem late market entry be too costly, given classical business model mature phase its life cycle.