British Academy President writes open letter to SHAPE graduates of 2021

The British Academy's outgoing President, historian Professor Sir David Cannadine, has written a letter to all graduates in SHAPE disciplines (the social sciences, humanities and the arts) applauding their achievements and reminding them of the value they can bring to society.

Professor Cannadine highlighted the importance of the disciplines and the contribution they make towards a prosperous society, adding: “The disparagement of the humanities and the social sciences is nothing new and invariably misguided, not least because the skills, knowledge and understanding that these disciplines teach and nurture are also vital for promoting our national prosperity and our worldwide reputation for innovation and academic excellence.”

The President of the British Academy’s open letter can be read in full here.