Final answer:
The focus of prestigious universities has shifted over time from maintaining traditions to fostering broad education and groundbreaking research. Modern universities like Princeton and Rice aim to develop global leaders by providing comprehensive education and encouraging societal contributions through research and service.
Step-by-step explanation:
The evolution of universities from early modern institutions, focusing on civil service, medicine, law, or theology for a select group of students, to contemporary research universities like Princeton University and Rice University, marks a significant shift in higher education. Initially, the curriculum was designed to uphold tradition, with academic affiliations to prestigious institutions such as Oxford, Bologna, and Paris, helping scholars to attract wealthy patrons and finance innovative research externally. Today, universities emphasize comprehensive education, with initiatives like OpenStax at Rice University pushing the boundaries through path-breaking research, diverse community cultivation, and global contributions.
Students in modern universities are exposed to a wide array of courses, expanding their worldview and providing additional 'cultural capital'. This holistic approach to education aims not only to teach but also to enhance self-examination skills, building upon Socrates' adage that 'The unexamined life is not worth living'. Educational institutions now prioritize not only transmitting knowledge but also contributing to societal advancement and creating global leaders.
Both Princeton and Rice Universities demonstrate a commitment to exceptional education and service, preparing students to thrive in the ever-evolving global landscape through rigorous teaching and research.