Cardiff Scholar Recognised for Global Impact in Political Theory and Public Policy

Professor Graeme Garrard Joins Prestigious UK Fellowship for Social Science Excellence

Cardiff University has revealed Professor Graeme Garrard, a distinguished political theory and research scholar, was elected to the fellowship of the Academy of Social Sciences last September. He is joining a group of 63 of the UK's most respected social scientists who have been celebrated for their work in social sciences and public life through academic research. The Academy Fellowship consists of more than 1,500 members from academia, government, industry, and the voluntary sector. The work of their members covers a broad spectrum of social science topics, and their research responds to pressing issues in communities, economies, and public policy. Fellows are chosen by independent peer review, which identifies excellence, impact, and broader contributions to the public good.

Professor Garrard has been a member of Cardiff University, UK, since the mid-1990s, when he finished his doctorate at Oxford University. Throughout his career, he has attracted an international following for his writings on the Enlightenment and its critics. His writings include many scholarly publications and four books, the latest of which—published by Yale University Press—provides a defence of a robust, activist state in reaction to neoliberal theory and practice. Aside from his position at Cardiff University's social sciences, Professor Garrard has instructed in Britain, the United States, France, and the Czech Republic. He has also been an instructor in Government at Harvard Summer School for more than a decade. He has held visiting fellowships at Dartmouth College, Williams College, and Clare Hall, University of Cambridge. He was elected as a Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales in 2024.

In his address, Professor Garrard thanked the honour bestowed and commended the Academy's years of dedication to advancing political science and public policy. He observed that its Campaign for Social Science is instrumental in enhancing the public's grasp and furthering the public good. He went on to say that he was eager to assist the Academy in its drive to strengthen the quality of public discussion and civic life in the UK.

This acknowledgement also testifies to the increasing power of social research institutes in the UK and the significance of associate professor social sciences positions in driving national and global discussion. It emphasises Cardiff University's dedication to academic excellence in higher education research and its commitment to hosting international students in social sciences. Cardiff University institutional leaders have commended the news, observing that Professor Garrard's election enhances the reputation of the university as a leader in thought in the social sciences. They pointed out that such recognition not only honours personal achievement but also reinforces the university's wider mission of promoting public engagement and policy innovation. The list of newly elected Fellows in full can be found on the website of the Academy of Social Sciences.

Editor’s Note

Cardiff University, UK, feels proud of Professor Graeme Garrard being elected to the Academy of Social Sciences fellowship since recognition has come at a time for his long-standing contributions to political theory and research. His work on the Enlightenment and its critics has shaped scholarly debate across social science subjects, and his recent defence of an activist state reflects the kind of engaged scholarship that speaks to current policy challenges. The award also emphasises the increasing salience of academic research in the social sciences for public comprehension and, perhaps, influencing policy formation. The Academy’s Fellowship is thus not merely a mark of individual excellence, but it also shows how social research institutes in the UK are helping to contribute solutions to complex issues across our communities, economies, and public life. Professor Garrard’s engagement in teaching in Britain, the United States, France, and the Czech Republic corresponds to the global reach of associate professor social sciences and is indeed a good lesson on the value of international collaboration. His involvement at Harvard Summer School and Clare Hall, Cambridge, extends this contribution of academic research to higher education in promoting cross-border dialogue and innovation. The continued success of Cardiff University in obtaining such recognition is, in itself, a testimony to the university's commitment to supporting an international incoming cohort in social sciences to have a viable academic community. Professor Garrard's standing in the field of political science and public policy exemplifies the strength of Cardiff University in these areas, which surely reflects upon his achievements and future contributions to the work of the Academy.

As per Skoobuzz, this fellowship not only marks a personal milestone but announces the growing Cardiff influence in social sciences. It reminds us of the theory-aided positing of public issues that, if made publicly available, could contribute to the raising of the standards of public conversation and civic life not just in the UK, but elsewhere.

FAQs

1. What is the Academy of Social Sciences Fellowship?

The Academy of Social Sciences Fellowship is a national honour given to leading social scientists in the UK. Fellows are chosen through a peer review process that recognises their excellence in research and their wider impact on society. The Fellowship includes experts from universities, government, charities, and industry. These individuals have made important contributions to public policy, education, and social understanding. Being elected as a Fellow shows that a person’s work has helped improve public life and shaped how we think about social issues.

2. Who is Professor Graeme Garrard from Cardiff University?

Professor Graeme Garrard is a respected scholar in political theory who teaches at Cardiff University. He has worked there since the mid-1990s after completing his doctorate at Oxford. His research focuses on the Enlightenment and its critics, and he has written several books and articles on the subject. His most recent book defends the idea of a strong, active state and challenges neoliberal thinking. Professor Garrard has taught in the UK, the United States, France, and the Czech Republic, and has held visiting positions at top universities including Harvard and Cambridge. He was elected a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences and the Learned Society of Wales.

3. Why is social science research important?

Social science research helps us understand how people behave, how societies function, and how public policies affect everyday life. It provides evidence that can improve decision-making in areas like education, health, law, and economics. This kind of research also helps solve real-world problems, such as inequality, climate change, and social care. By studying institutions, relationships, and cultural trends, social scientists offer insights that support better planning, fairer policies, and stronger communities. In short, social science research is essential for building a more informed and inclusive society.

4. Which UK universities are best for political theory?

Several UK universities are known for their excellence in political theory. These include:

• University of Oxford – famous for its long tradition in political thought.

• University of Cambridge – offers strong research and teaching in political philosophy.

• London School of Economics (LSE) – specialises in social sciences and global politics.

• University College London (UCL) is known for its interdisciplinary approach.

• University of St Andrews and University of Warwick – both have high student satisfaction and research quality. These universities regularly rank among the top for politics and international relations, offering strong academic programmes and research opportunities.

5. How does Cardiff University support social sciences?

Cardiff University provides strong support for social sciences through its dedicated School of Social Sciences. The school offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in subjects like sociology, criminology, education, and social policy. It promotes interdisciplinary learning and encourages students to explore different perspectives. The university also supports international students with tailored guidance and placement opportunities. Its research centres work on real-world issues, such as public health, education reform, and social justice. Cardiff is recognised for its impact on public debate and policy development, making it a leading institution for social science education and research.