Humanities

The humanities have traditionally been the core of a classical university education, equipping graduates both culturally and morally. Today, however, humanities academics are increasingly questioning their purpose, and striving to strike a balance between canonical reverence and contemporary relevance. Matthew Reisz reports

As an honorary professor at Bangor, Philip Pullman is returning to the land of his childhood not so much to teach as to share, writes Tariq Tahir.

Forget the Kop and the Cavern Club: it's the campus that powers Liverpool. Harriet Swain examines the dynamic impact higher education can have on a city.

Roy Harris reflects on our attitude to an 'alien' language whose characteristics have so strongly influenced China's intellectual and pedagogic traditions.

Susan Bassnett admires a playfully serious paean to the joys of not curling up with a good book.

Anthony Freeman on the histories, myths and exegesis that grew into Judaeo-Christian Scriptures.

The Technology Strategy Board has £1bn to invest in industry-focused R&D, writes Zoe Corbyn.

Philip Esler vows to set up a task force to make a solid 'empirical case' for the arts and humanities' substantial economic impact. Zoe Corbyn reports.

The only way to counter the AHRC's inanity is to be kind to your doctoral students, advises Simon Blackburn.

What Makes Us Human?

The Whisperers

Different Engines

Bad Faith