Rolf Schock Prizes

In his will, Dr. Rolf Schock, who died in 1986, specified that half of his estate should be used to fund four prizes in the fields of logic and philosophy, mathematics, the visual arts and music.

Latest prizes (2011)

Logic and Philosophy: Hilary Putnam ”for his contribution to the understanding of semantics for theoretical and ‘natural kind’ terms, and of the implications of this semantics for philosophy of language, theory of knowledge, philosophy of science and metaphysics”

Press release

Mathematics: Michael Aschbacher  ”for his fundamental contributions to one of the largest mathematical projects ever, the classification of finite simple groups, notably his contribution to the quasi-thin case”

Press release

Visual Arts:  Marlene Dumas ”for her unique ability to depict human vulnerability and greatness, in painted works that do not shrink from showing adversity. With empathy and critical discernment, she brings issues of race, ethnocentrism, gender and sexuality to the fore”

Press release

Musical Arts: Andrew Manze ”for his virtuoso and insightful interpretations as a violinist and ensemble leader; his unique, rousing style as a conductor; and his inspired ability to communicate with the audience”

Press release

Nominating and awarding

The prizes in logic and philosophy and in mathematics is awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, and those in the visual arts and music by the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and the Royal Swedish Academy of Music respectively.

Beginning in 1993, prizes are awarded every three years. In years when awards are made, proposals are made by special prize committees within each academy. The laureates are chosen at plenary sessions of the academies in the spring, and the prizes are awarded at a joint ceremony in the autumn.