In memoriam: Professor Jack Spence - Memories from two students
In tribute to Professor Jack Spence, two of his former students recall his inspirational lectures, his kindness and some of his many achievements. Jack was Chair of BISA from 1986-1987.
In 1966 Jack Spence was a lecturer at Swansea University where he taught an introduction to international relations. The lecture took place at 12 noon every Friday during the semester. The lecture hall was large, but it was always packed. Swansea students went home for the weekend but only after Jack's lecture. For all of us in that hall, it was the highlight of the week. Jack was clear, articulate and compelling in his analysis. He had the perfect voice, and his presence, along with a rare mix of logic and passion, demanded attention. For many in the audience the lectures were inspirational, and for some of us they changed our lives. There are few academics who have had that kind of impact.
Whether Jack was talking about Konrad Adenauer and the challenges of European economic and defense cooperation, apartheid in South Africa, or the role of deterrence in US-Soviet relations, he opened a new and mesmerising world. For both of us, and for many others. It was a world that we wanted to explore and understand. We were both lucky enough to take other smaller classes with Jack, especially on the newly emerging field of strategic studies, where he not only provided guidance and encouragement but also a level of kindness and support that was rare. He was always respectful to his students. We were called ‘Mr Williams’ and ‘Mr Baylis’ which, for young students, greatly boosted our confidence. He often summarised our mumbled comments in seminars into more sophisticated contributions to discussions, helping to reinforce our self-esteem.
After graduating he encouraged us both to go to the Department of International Politics in Aberystwyth to do the Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies under John Garnett, one of his academic friends and a fellow student during his time at the LSE. Over the years he continued to be a source of inspiration and help throughout our own academic careers. If we needed a reference Jack was the first person we would ask. If we needed advice, he was always available to discuss both academic and personal issues. If we had a book manuscript, he would provide invaluable, incisive, and constructive, comments and guidance.
Professor Jack Spence at Chatham House. Image with kind permission from Chatham House Archive
Jack of course went from Swansea to become Chair of the Politics department at Leicester, where he subsequently became Pro-Vice Chancellor. He was greatly respected not only in International Politics but also in African Studies. One of his most notable books was Republic under Pressure, and he played an important practical role in the transition from apartheid in his native country of South Africa. He also published on a wide variety of issues and areas, especially in the field of Diplomatic Studies. He became a pivotal figure at BISA, Chatham House, King’s College London, and the Royal College of Defence Studies - where he was awarded an OBE for his services to military education. Although one of the senior figures in the field Jack remained warm and approachable throughout his life. He was always judicious and balanced in his approach to key issues and invariably kind, warm and supportive in his judgments about people.
Jack Spence had enormous generosity of spirit and will be greatly missed by us and many others.
Authors
John Baylis is Emeritus Professor of Politics and International Relations and former Pro Vice Chancellor at Swansea University.
Phil Williams is Professor Emeritus at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, University of Pittsburgh.
Top image by Mehrpouya H on Unsplash
