Historian Niall Ferguson named 2012 BBC Reith Lecturer

The BBC has named the renowned economic historian Niall Ferguson as the 2012 Reith Lecturer.

The lecture series titled 'The Rule of Law and its Enemies' will explore the influence of man-made institutions on global economic growth and democracy.

Radio 4 controller Gywneth Williams says she is "delighted" to appoint Prof Ferguson - "an eminent historian with a global perspective."

Prof Ferguson says it is "an immense honour" to be chosen as Reith Lecturer....