Classics Professor Arlene Holmes-Henderson has co-edited a new book that brings together leading voices from around the world to explore the future of the Humanities.
‘Humanities Forward’ features contributions spanning five continents to share new ideas, approaches and practical lessons that highlight the societal value of the Humanities.
As universities globally face growing pressure on Arts and Humanities subjects, Humanities Forward explores why these disciplines matter more than ever.
The book includes chapters from 50 international academics, policymakers, teachers, charity representatives and funders who examine what the Humanities can offer in the 21st century.
Rather than focusing only on the challenges facing the sector, the contributors explore how countries can learn from one another to strengthen teaching, research and public engagement.
The volume features leading UK voices including Christopher Smith, Executive Chair of the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), and Hetan Shah, Chief Executive of the British Academy.
A launch event celebrating the book - and two others published by Arlene in 2026 - will take place at the House of Lords in Westminster, London, on 7 September.
Arlene will be joined by speakers including internationally renowned classicist and author Dame Mary Beard, and Professor Victoria Baines, Visiting Professor of Technology and Society at Gresham College.
Arlene said: “The Humanities help us to think critically and engage meaningfully with the world around us.
“These subjects encourage curiosity, creativity and the ability to ask important questions about society, culture and history.
“Humanities Forward showcases the many ways these disciplines continue to enrich lives in the 21st century.
“In the age of AI, the Humanities are more important than ever in providing a framework for ethical conduct and human interaction.”
AHRC Executive Chair Professor Christopher Smith said: “Yesterday’s imagination is today’s science; today’s science is tomorrow’s history.
“Humanities Forward underlines this central premise through a diverse range of perspectives that demonstrate how central the arts and humanities are, to science, to society, and to us as individuals.
“Or to put it another way, in Lord Bragg’s words, arts and culture are not the cherry on the cake; they are the cake.
“We are part of an extraordinary adventure in understanding our world and our humanity, and as this volume shows, we need to continue with humility, and with the humanities.”
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