Britain | Locke, Stock and both barrels

The philosopher changing free speech in Britain

Arif Ahmed is forcing universities to behave better

Arif Ahmed Director for Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom of the Office for Students.
Some philosophers wear capesPhotograph: Jill Mead/Guardian/eyevine

A good way to understand Arif Ahmed, a philosopher, is to have visited him in his old rooms at Cambridge University. In some ways the study was standard philosopher fare: wood floors, air of faded grandeur. Peer from its paned windows and you could see King’s College, where Ludwig Wittgenstein argued with Karl Popper with a poker. Wander down the street, and you’d be at Trinity, where Bertrand Russell argued with almost everyone.

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This article appeared in the Britain section of the print edition under the headline “Locke, Stock and both barrels”

From the April 12th 2025 edition

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