Vale Professor Dean Jaensch

Prominent and highly respected political scientist, Emeritus Professor Dean Jaensch AO, has died. He was 85.

A highly respected political analyst with expertise in electoral politics, voting systems and political
behaviour, and political parties, Professor Jaensch was noted for his trenchant observations on the machinations of state and federal Australian governments with a particular focus on politics and personalities in South Australia and the Northern Territory.

After graduating from the University of Adelaide, Professor Jaensch lectured in politics and international studies at Flinders University from the early 1970s until his retirement in 2001.

He was noted not just as an engaging and dynamic teacher, but also distinguished himself as an
academic, political historian, author, commentator and columnist.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling paid tribute to Professor Jaensch, describing him as one of the most notable political scientists of his generation.

“Fiercely intellectual, Professor Dean Jaensch was never afraid to speak his mind or to engage in
vigorous but respectful debate. He encouraged his students to observe keenly, think deeply, and act without fear or favour, making him a mentor par excellence.

“Known and respected by generations of South Australians for decades of columns in The Advertiser and appearances on ABC radio and television and commercial radio, Professor Jaensch will be missed for his wit and wisdom.

“The political firmament has lost a shining star with Professor Jaensch’s passing,” Professor Stirling says.

On behalf of Flinders University, Professor Stirling offered deep condolences to Professor Jaensch’s wife Helen, their three children and extended family.

The author of 14 books and contributor to many more, Professor Jaensch is honoured at Flinders
University by the Dean Jaensch Annual Lecture, and the Dean Jaensch Scholarship established in 2010 to encourage students to study honours in Politics and Public Policy.

Emeritus Professor Dean Harold Jaensch AO
Born: Kapunda, 27 October 1936
Died: Adelaide, 17 January 2022

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