The normative effects of higher education policy in France

This student survey was a response to the French youth unrest in 2005 and 2006. It considers the degree to which French higher and secondary education institutions create social cohesion. Focusing on three distinct higher-education institutions: L’institut d’études politiques de Paris (Sciences Po), Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris 8, and a lycée in the outskirts of Paris, it asks students their opinions on pressing national issues. It reflects on how the French education system was developed to create French citizens and the post-war use of quotas created for Algerians in the employment and education sectors. It draws comparisons with the controversial 2001 separate-admissions policy at Sciences Po and the more recent agenda to institute 30% set-asides for higher-education scholarship students.

► The paper reflects on how the French education system was developed. ► The survey asks Muslim and non-Muslim students their opinions on national issues. ► The study stresses the normative effects of the French educational system. ► Higher and secondary completion fosters republican values in minority students.