Press release
University to host author for landmark lecture
An award-winning author will examine the links between religion, sex and modern politics in a public lecture hosted at the University of Dundee.
Published on 3 March 2026
Professor Sir Diarmaid MacCulloch will explore the often toxic relationship between the trio of subjects and how the subsequent effects on the Christian world have often been simplified or misunderstood.
Drawing on his recent book Lower than the Angels, Professor MacCulloch will demonstrate how 3000 years of constant change in Judaism, Christianity and Islam have shaped the ways in which society looks at sexuality and families in our own age.
He will explore this as part of the Harris/Forbes Lecture, an event hosted jointly with the Diocese of Brechin and a landmark public event in the University calendar. The lecture will take place at the University’s Dalhousie Building on Wednesday 18 March.
Diarmaid MacCulloch is Emeritus Professor of the History of the Church, and Fellow of St Cross College and of Campion Hall, Oxford University. His book History of Christianity: The First 3000 years won the 2010 Cundill Prize for History and was accompanied by a BBC TV series. He was knighted in 2012.
The Reverend Dr Fiona Douglas, University Chaplain, said, “We are extremely honoured to welcome Professor MacCulloch to the University for this marquee event. His experience as an author, historian and Church of England deacon will ensure that this lecture will fascinate and educate in equal measure.”
The Right Reverend Andrew Swift, Bishop of Brechin, added, “The dynamics between religion and modern cultural behaviours are extremely complex. This lecture will provide a fascinating insight to how these have been formed and how historic interpretations influence current day thinking.”
The Harris/Forbes Lecture takes place at the University’s Dalhousie Building on Wednesday 18 March, 18:00-19:30. Entry is free but tickets must be booked in advance via the University website.