Emeritus Fellow Anthony Heath awarded inaugural David Butler Prize
Professor Anthony Heath CBE FBA, Emeritus Fellow in Sociology, was awarded the first ever David Butler Prize for Lifetime Contribution to the Study of Elections, Public Opinion, and Parties in recognition of his exceptional work over more than 50 years.
This prize was set up in Sir David Butler’s memory by EPOP, the Elections, Public Opinion and Parties group of the Political Studies Association. The prize honours ‘a notable scholar either retired or close to retirement, who has made a distinctive and indelible mark’ on this academic field.
Anthony Heath’s contributions to political sociology make him a most deserving first recipient of this illustrious award. Among many other achievements, he has authored almost 500 publications; played a major role in setting up the British Social Attitudes survey series; led the Ethnic Minority British Election Studies in 1997 and again in 2010; and served as Director of the British Election Studies (BES) from 1983 to 1997.
The judging panel gave a warm and well-deserved testimonial with the award:
‘Anthony Heath has inspired many generations of political scientists, not only for the quality of his own work, but also through his keen interest in the work of others and readiness to support and assist in their research. The judging panel was particularly impressed by the breadth of his contribution, particularly his role in establishing key infrastructure for studying electoral behaviour and social attitudes in the UK and beyond, and the quality of his scholarship. A model of what a professional social scientist should be, he was the unanimous choice of the panel.’
We very much look forward to listening to Anthony speak on ‘Many failures but the occasional success; sociological research and government policy making’ this Saturday, 7 October at Nuffield. Anthony is part of our triennial Sociology Subject Reunion at Nuffield, where Alumni, Fellows and students will come together to enjoy his talk then catch up with old friends and make new connections over drinks and dinner.