The discourse concerning the “third mission” of universities and their societal impact is currently active and dynamic within our country. Notably, the term “public engagement”—occasionally adopted uncritically from Anglo-Saxon academic terminology—exhibits significant ambiguity, thereby allowing for varied interpretations. This volume addresses the core of the discourse by presenting a proposal centred on a specific definition of the universities’ mission. This mission is neither ‘third’ nor is it distinct from the traditional missions of research and teaching. Rather, it posits that research and teaching can be effectively integrated into a fundamental mission of universities as institutions serving collective utility: a transformative and generative mission. This vision posits that universities can serve as catalysts for transformative change within communities and societies. This is achieved through the conception and exchange of knowledge and practices with other social actors, within a framework characterized by reciprocity and mutual benefit, thereby fostering generativity. This proposal is structured into two sections within the volume: the first section offers general reflections derived from various research experiences, while the second section details the activities of the Foist Laboratory for Social Policies and Formative Processes at the University of Sassari. The authors of the book, who are members of this laboratory, document its development over the past decade. This development is rooted in the pioneering vision of its founder, Alberto Merler, whose insights from nearly fifty years ago continue to influence the laboratory’s approach and methodology today.

This book is included in DOAB.