Flinders University politics guru Professor Dean Jaensch dies aged 85

A renowned political expert and veteran Advertiser columnist is being remembered as “fiercely intellectual” and a wonderful husband and father.

Emeritus Professor Dean Jaensch from Flinders University.

Renowned political expert and long-time Advertiser columnist Dean Jaensch has died at the age of 85.

The highly respected commentator and Flinders University professor has been remembered by colleagues as a “fiercely intellectual” academic who was never afraid to speak his mind.

His wife Helen said he was a “wonderful husband and father”, who also made an “extraordinary contribution” in his professional life.

“He gave so much to so many and gave freely of his time to many thousands across the community,” Mrs Jaensch said.

“He was just an amazing person and I am so lucky to have had him part of our family and as my best friend for more than 60 years.”

SA academic and political commentator Dean Jaensch passed away aged 85.

Professor Jaensch was best known for his sharp and incisive observations on the complexities of state and federal politics.

He took a particular interest in South Australian politics and wrote a column for The Advertiser for more than 20 years.

Premier Steven Marshall paid tribute to his political mentor – who later in life became his constituent.

“Dean dedicated his life to politics and his commentary and insights are unparalleled,” Mr Marshall said.

“Not only was he a great teacher of our political system to generations, Dean was my mentor.

“Dean will be remembered by many South Australians including those who enjoyed reading his expert, informed political views in his regular columns in The Advertiser, by students who were lucky enough to learn from the best and by politicians alike.”

Flinders University Vice-Chancellor Colin Stirling said Professor Jaensch, the author of 14 books, was one of the “most notable political scientists of his generation”.

“Fiercely intellectual, Professor Jaensch was never afraid to speak his mind or to engage in feisty debate,” Professor Stirling said.

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

We've lost one of SA's great political minds with the passing of Professor Dean Jaensch. Fond memories of working with him on ABC radio. His experience and insight, unmatched. A great teacher to generations. #DeanJaensch#saparli#Adelaidepic.twitter.com/YustuQINzp

— Michael Smyth (@MichaelSmyth_) January 18, 2022

The father of three lectured in politics and international studies at Flinders University from the early 1970s until his retirement in 2001.

He was known for encouraging students to “think deeply” and “act without fear or favour”.

His former apprentice, Haydon Manning, said Professor Jaensch had an “abiding commitment” to public education.

“He gave frequent public talks in the evening to country halls, RSLs and Rotary clubs … trying to help people understand the machinations of politics,” Professor Manning said.

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