Francis Wheen, English journalist and author

Francis James Baird Wheen, born on 22 January 1957, is an distinguished British figure renowned for his multifaceted career as a journalist, acclaimed author, and engaging broadcaster. His work consistently demonstrates a sharp intellect, a penchant for incisive commentary, and a unique ability to blend wit with profound analysis across various media, making him a significant voice in contemporary British intellectual life.

Wheen's contributions span several key areas:

A Distinguished Journalistic Career

As a journalist, Francis Wheen has been a prominent and influential voice in British media for decades. He served as a prolific columnist for influential national newspapers such as The Guardian and The Mail on Sunday, where his articles consistently provided sharp, often satirical, and critically insightful perspectives on politics, society, and culture. His incisive commentary frequently challenged established norms, dissected contemporary absurdities, and offered a unique lens through which to view public life. Beyond his role as a columnist, he also held the distinguished position of editor for The Modern Review, a publication celebrated for its intellectual rigor and its exploration of cultural and societal trends, further solidifying his reputation as a keen observer and an influential shaper of public discourse.

Acclaimed Author and Biographer

Wheen's literary output is particularly notable, showcasing his remarkable range and depth as a writer. His bibliography includes several highly regarded non-fiction works and biographies that have garnered critical acclaim:

• Karl Marx: A Life (1999): This widely praised and meticulously researched biography earned him the prestigious Deutsch Prize, a significant accolade in the literary world. It stands out for its engaging narrative and balanced perspective, bringing the complex life and ideas of Karl Marx vividly to life, and is considered one of the definitive modern biographies of the philosopher.
• How Mumbo-Jumbo Conquered the World: A Short History of Modern Delusions (2004): In this thought-provoking and often satirical work, Wheen critically examines the proliferation of irrationality, pseudoscience, and various contemporary delusions across society, incisively dissecting how unreason can permeate public discourse, media, and even policy-making.
• Marx's Das Kapital: A Biography (2006): As part of Atlantic Books' 'Books that Shook the World' series, this book offers an accessible yet rigorous exploration of Karl Marx's seminal economic treatise, making its complex and often misunderstood ideas comprehensible to a wider audience without sacrificing intellectual depth.
• The Vicar of Bray: The Life of a Political Turncoat (1990): An earlier work that demonstrates his enduring interest in political history, character studies, and the often-shifting allegiances of public figures.

His writing style is consistently characterized by intellectual rigor, sharp wit, an engaging narrative voice, and a distinctive ability to tackle complex subjects with clarity, insight, and often, a touch of humor.

Engaging Broadcaster

Beyond his extensive written work, Francis Wheen has also made significant and memorable contributions to broadcasting. He was a familiar and popular voice on BBC Radio 4, notably serving as a regular panelist on the long-running satirical news quiz show The News Quiz. His appearances allowed him to showcase his quick wit, analytical skills, and satirical insights in a live, unscripted format, enabling him to connect with and entertain a broad national audience and further cementing his reputation as a versatile and articulate media personality.

Frequently Asked Questions about Francis Wheen

When was Francis Wheen born?

Francis James Baird Wheen was born on 22 January 1957.

What are Francis Wheen's primary professional roles?

He is primarily recognized for his impactful career as a British journalist, an acclaimed writer (particularly as a biographer and non-fiction author), and a distinguished broadcaster.

Which of Francis Wheen's books is considered his most acclaimed work?

His biography, Karl Marx: A Life, published in 1999, is widely considered his most acclaimed work and notably won the prestigious Deutsch Prize.

What characterizes Francis Wheen's writing style?

His writing style is often described as witty, intellectually rigorous, and satirical, with a keen focus on critical analysis of politics, society, and contemporary delusions, presented with clarity and engaging narrative.

On which major media outlets has Francis Wheen frequently contributed?

He has served as a columnist for influential newspapers such as The Guardian and The Mail on Sunday, held the editorship of The Modern Review, and was a regular panelist on BBC Radio 4's popular show, The News Quiz.