In keeping with the British Society for the History of Science aim to communicate history of science to broad audiences, the 2025 Hughes Prize will be offered for the best book in the history of science, technology, and medicine, first published in English in 2023 or 2024, which is accessible to a wide audience of non-specialists. The 2023 Prize was won by Keith Wailoo for his book Pushing Cool: Big Tobacco, Racial Marketing, and the Untold Story of the Menthol Cigarette (Chicago, The University of Chicago Press, 2021).

The winning book should present some aspect of the field in an engaging and comprehensible manner and should also show proper regard for historical methods and the results of historical research. For example, it might re-examine a well-known historical incident or achievement, or bring new perspective to previously neglected figures or fields in the past.

The value of the Hughes Prize is £300. The winner will also have the opportunity to give a public lecture, organised by the BSHS, on the subject of their book.

Nominations for the Prize are invited from both individuals and publishers via this form.

For any enquiries regarding the Prize and submissions please email office@bshs.org.uk.