Professor Sir Adam Roberts takes up reins at British Academy

Professor Sir Adam Roberts has taken up his position as President of the British Academy, the national academy for the humanities and social sciences.

Speaking at his inauguration at the Academy`s Annual General Meeting, he emphasised the need for policy-makers, particularly those implementing international policy, to understand the history, culture and languages of the societies with which they deal.

`The humanities and social sciences are not luxuries, but crucial contributors to the richness of society, to prosperity and well-being,` said Sir Adam.

`The major problems that face us today, nationally and internationally will not be solved by science and technology alone. Indeed the most intractable challenges are likely to rely for their solution on an understanding of human behaviour, of social and political change, and of intercultural understanding - all of which depend on the humanities and social sciences.

`By strengthening the policy engagement capacity located at the Academy, we can give leadership and develop a powerful voice on behalf of our disciplines.`

Professor Sir Adam Roberts is elected for a four year term until 2013 and takes over the role from Baroness Onora O`Neill.

The Department is well represented at the British Academy: Fellows include Vernon Bogdanor, Archie Brown, David Butler, Gerald Cohen (retired), Rosemary Foot, Sudhir Hazareesingh, Christopher Hood, Desmond King, Iain McLean, David Marquand, David Miller, Alan Ryan, Avi Shlaim and Vivienne Shue

Adam Roberts is Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for International Studies, Emeritus Fellow of Balliol College, and is an experienced adviser of public bodies, in the UK and overseas, on policy issues, especially international relations.