Historian Judith Pollmann Wins Prestigious Spinoza Prize
Leiden, Saturday, 19 July 2025.
Judith Pollmann, a renowned historian at Leiden University, has been honored with the Spinoza Prize for her innovative research linking historical change with contemporary innovation strategies in the Netherlands.
Recognizing Pioneering Historical Research
Judith Pollmann, a distinguished historian specializing in Early Modern Dutch History, has been awarded the Spinoza Prize, the most prestigious scientific award in the Netherlands. The award acknowledges her profound exploration into how historical societal dynamics have both influenced and been influenced by innovation policies throughout history [1].
Historical Insights into Innovation
Pollmann’s research delves into the apparent contradiction experienced during the Early Modern period, where societal apprehension towards change clashed with the inherent transformations in Dutch society, such as during the Eighty Years’ War. This era lacked formal innovation policies or a focus on continuous change, making Pollmann’s work critical in understanding how societal and identity shifts can inform current Dutch innovation strategies [1][5].
The Impact of Pollmann’s Work
Judith’s groundbreaking exploration underscores the relevance of historical perspectives in contemporary policy-making. Her work highlights the significant role history plays in shaping modern frameworks for innovation, particularly in understanding fears surrounding novelty and change. This perspective is essential in crafting policies that address contemporary societal challenges while learning from historical contexts [5].
Award and Future Endeavors
In acknowledgment of her exceptional contributions, Pollmann will receive not only a bronze statue of Spinoza but also a grant of 1.5 million euros. This financial support enables her to continue her exploration with collaborations from various academic and research entities. Pollmann aspires to further uncover the intricacies of historical perceptions of change and their profound impact across time [1].