After more than five decades of studying, Nick Axten has finally received his PhD in mathematical sociology. 76-year student of Bristol University received his degree in 2022, having resumed his studies seven years ago with the aim of obtaining a Master of Arts degree before moving on to a doctorate. He originally began his PhD at the University of Pittsburgh in 1970, but returned to the UK five years later without completing it.
Dr. Axten’s research builds on ideas he developed in America five decades ago. He proposes a new theory for understanding human behavior based on the values that each person holds. He hopes to publish his research, which he says could change the way we think about behavioral psychology.
Dr. Axten’s academic journey began in 1967 when he began studying sociology and psychology at the University of Leeds. He recalls that time as revolutionary and the subjects of sociology and psychology as booming. “I went to study them because I wanted to understand people,” he says.
Ecken’s academic career spans more than five decades during which he witnessed significant social and cultural changes.
Dr. Eksten had a successful career, married, had two children, and lived in various parts of Great Britain. He is also the author of the Oxford Primary Science curriculum.
Describing his experience, 76-year student of Bristol University said that “some problems are so big that it takes the best part of a lifetime to figure them out.” He added that his doctoral dissertation took him a long time to get in order. Probably most PhD candidates would agree with him on this point. Despite the length of his studies, Eksten said he enjoyed being a student at Bristol University again. He spoke well of his graduate school mates, who treated him as an equal despite his age – they were 23 years older than him.
Dr. Axten received his doctorate in front of his wife Claire and 11-year-old granddaughter Freya. He plans to continue his research and share his theory with others.
