Ansgar Allen

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

Schools like prisons, prisons like schools

The Conservative government's latest announcement is not as absurd as first seems.

By Ansgar Allen and EMILE BOJESEN

/ 12 Feb 2016

In praise of the 'economically illiterate' academic

University staff are now being drilled to see their work as part of a great financial machine to generate revenue, much of which is then absorbed in astronomical salaries for senior staff. Is this really what we want for our universities?

By Ansgar Allen

/ 4 Apr 2014

Academic writing - why bother?

The opening up of academic material beyond select and expensive journals should be grasped as an opportunity to re-examine the way academics communicate their ideas with the public.

By Ansgar Allen

/ 5 Mar 2014

The solitary academic: a dying breed

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.

By Ansgar Allen

/ 14 Feb 2013

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

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 w

By Ansgar Allen

/ 3 Sep 2012

The British public elect their Jesus

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.

By Ansgar Allen

/ 26 Jul 2012

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

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.

By Ansgar Allen

/ 11 Nov 2011