On Friday, June 6, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel awarded four honorary doctorates to philosopher and animal rights pioneer Peter Singer, linguist Terttu Nevalainen, climate scientist Joeri Rogelj, and child welfare expert John D. Fluke. According to Rector Jan Danckaert, these are “four top figures who have had a major impact on science, society, and how we deal with the great challenges of our time.”
Peter Singer: Moral Clarity as a Guiding Principle
Peter Singer is an influential Australian philosopher and bioethicist, globally known for his groundbreaking work on animal rights and applied ethics. As a professor at Princeton University, he approaches ethical issues from a utilitarian perspective, placing the reduction of suffering at the center. His book Animal Liberation (1975) marked a turning point in the animal rights movement.
Singer is also known for his controversial but influential positions on issues such as poverty, euthanasia, and moral responsibility. He co-founded the Journal of Controversial Ideas, which defends freedom of speech in academic debate. A vocal humanist and atheist, he was named Australian Humanist of the Year in 2004. His intellectual impact extends far beyond academia, as he is considered one of the most influential thinkers of our time.
The laudation for Peter Singer was delivered by VUB Professor Ike Picone, who described him as a thinker who brings philosophy close to practice: “By removing all excuses for looking away, for obscuring moral responsibility, by opening up the uncomfortable conversation, Singer helps conscience claim its rightful place in public thinking,” Picone said.
Terttu Nevalainen: Pioneer in Language and History
Prof. Dr. Emerita Terttu Nevalainen (1952) is a global authority in historical sociolinguistics. She pioneered quantitative and corpus-based approaches to language change and gave voice to forgotten language groups in the history of English. Her work sparked a methodological revolution in Anglo-Saxon linguistics. She is one of the few prominent female figures in a traditionally male-dominated field.
“The choice for Terttu Nevalainen is based on two motivations: her pioneering role in historical sociolinguistics and her invaluable contribution to the visibility of closely related research at the VUB,” said VUB Professors Wim Vandenbussche and Rik Vosters.
Joeri Rogelj: Science in Service of Humanity
Prof. Dr. Ir. Joeri Rogelj is a leading Belgian climate scientist and professor at Imperial College London, where he also serves as research director at the Grantham Institute. In 2013, he earned his PhD in climate science at ETH Zurich, the leading university for Earth sciences. His work at the intersection of climate science and policy greatly influenced the Paris Climate Agreement.
Rogelj developed crucial models and scenarios regarding CO₂ budgets and temperature targets, including the widely cited study on the failure of climate pledges (Nature, 2016). He is one of the youngest and most influential lead authors for the IPCC and was Coordinating Lead Author for the 1.5°C report (2018). With over 75,000 citations and 69 publications in top journals, he is recognized as a "Highly Cited Researcher."
“His exceptional academic profile and enormous societal impact are a shining example of science in service of a sustainable future and of humanity,” said VUB Professor Wim Thiery.
John D. Fluke: Child Rights Supported by Data
Prof. Dr. John D. Fluke is a professor and Associate Director at the Kempe Center at the University of Colorado. He is internationally recognized for his pioneering work on data-driven policy decisions in child welfare. His expertise lies in risk assessment, cost analysis, and outcome measurement.
Fluke combines academic knowledge with practice-based insights and has held leadership roles in NGOs and international networks. He is a board member of both the International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect and the European Scientific Association on Residential and Family Care.
“With over 80 peer-reviewed publications and several standard works, he is considered a key figure in the field of child welfare and protection,” said VUB Professor Johan Vanderfaeillie. “His work substantially contributes to a better understanding of child abuse worldwide.”
Closing Words on Behalf of the Honorary Doctors
Finally, Joeri Rogelj spoke on behalf of all honorary doctors. He expressed gratitude for the recognition and addressed young researchers and policymakers: “Our generation has both the opportunity and the responsibility to make a difference. Time is running out, but hope is justified.” His plea for fact-based climate action, supported by both science and commitment, formed a powerful conclusion to a beautiful ceremony.
© Gregory De Leeuw