“To live like a tree, lonely and free / To live as brothers like trees in a forest”

About Ansgar Allen

Ansgar Allen is a Lecturer in Education at the University of Sheffield. His research investigates connections between education, knowledge and power.

Articles by Ansgar Allen

The solitary academic: a dying breed

Ansgar Allen 14 February 2013

In Britain a way of academic life is dying out. The research environment has changed. It demands 'impact', 'relevancy' and 'connection'. In this climate, dissenting voices are isolated, and compromised.

The heart of British schools and Gove’s ‘dark place’

Ansgar Allen 3 September 2012

UK education is dumbing down! British children aren't clever enough, quick enough, skilled enough! This is the fear that stalks the school playground, led by the apparition of the Education Secretary. It is a monstrous farce, but wrapped up as we are within it, we find ourselves unable to simply walk away.

The British public elect their Jesus

Ansgar Allen 26 July 2012

The TV talent show 'Jesus Christ Superstar' chose its messiah yesterday by public vote - with the expert oversight of Lord Lloyd Webber. It was an example of British 'meritocracy' in action.

‘You never will be a rock star’: Britain, social mobility and the exploitation of hope

Ansgar Allen 11 November 2011

Britain once feared the 'excessive desires' of the 'undeserving poor'. Today, the myth of a socially mobile UK is built on the promise that everyone can reach the stars: the production of irrational hope and the canny management of disappointment.

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