Fellow of the British Academy awarded the Holberg Prize

Fellow of the British Academy and former President, Baroness Onora O’Neill of Bengarve, has today been awarded the prestigious Holberg Prize—one of the largest international prizes awarded annually to an outstanding researcher in the arts and humanities, the social sciences, law or theology.

Baroness O’Neill is an Honorary Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, at the University of Cambridge and a crossbench member of the House of Lords.

Baroness O’Neill will receive the Holberg Prize for her distinguished and influential role in the field of philosophy and for shedding light on pressing intellectual and ethical questions of our time. Her contribution to our understanding of Immanuel Kant is regarded as transformative and has led to a renewed interest in his work. In particular, Baroness O’Neill has explored the requirements of public reason and how they relate to international justice and to the roles of trust and accountability in public life.

For almost half a century, the British Academy Fellow has combined writing on political philosophy and ethics with a range of public activities, and her work has influenced generations of scholars, policy makers and practitioners alike.

Speaking in response to today’s announcement, Chief Executive of the British Academy, Alun Evans, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Onora has been selected for such a prestigious award. Her work in relation to the field of philosophy - and Immanuel Kant in particular - is unquestionable. Today’s award and recognition are clear evidence of that.

“It goes without saying that we are extremely fortunate to have someone of Onora’s calibre and considerable international standing as part of our Fellowship. We would like to extend our utmost congratulations to Onora for this outstanding achievement.”

Baroness O’Neill will receive the financial award of NOK 4,500,000 (approx. USD 525,000) during a formal ceremony at the University of Bergen, Norway, on Thursday, 8 June.