A NUMBER of Oxford academics have been made Fellows of the British Academy, representing the very best of humanities and social sciences research.

The eight Oxford University professors were made Fellows yesterday for a wide range of works.

Professor Sir David Cannadine’s, President of the British Academy, said: “’At a time when institutions are distrusted and derided, and expertise is mocked and scorned, the British Academy stands for truth, reason, evidence-based learning, intellectual distinction, academic expertise, and quality and power of mind.

“In a world where parochialism, nativism, nationalism, xenophobia and populism seem in too many places to be on the march, it is our job to provide light and learning and hope.

“This is by no means an easy task, but I am looking forward to it, and eager to be getting on with it.”

The list includes Professor John Armour, Hogan Lovells Professor of Law and Finance and Professor Sir Paul Collier CBE, Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government.

Also honoured was Professor Mary Daly, Professor of Sociology and Social Policy, Professor Ja? Elsner, Professor of Late Antique Art, Professor Charles Hulme, Professor of Psychology and Education, Professor Eugene Rogan, Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History and Professor Catriona Seth, Marshal Foch Professor of French Literature.

An honorary fellowship was also awarded to acclaimed playwright Sir Tom Stoppard.