Publications and research

Counterpoint publications

Counterpoint is the cultural relations think-tank of the British Council. As part of our aim to promote debate, Counterpoint have published over 25 books, pamphlets and CDs. Visit our Counterpoint website to find out more.

Surveys and research

Below you will find a few examples of research we have conducted in recent years.

2008

Britain and Ireland: Lives Entwined

These essays celebrate the unique quality of the relationship between the UK and Ireland, but they do not shy away from explaining its complexity and intricacy. They form an important record of a period that history will surely judge to have been pivotal for both countries. Read the full document on Britain and Ireland: Lives Entwined.

2004

British German Youth Survey

Young Britons are more positive about Germany than they were in 2003 – although it remains questionable as to whether Germans will ever be seen as “cool” by their British opposite numbers, according to a survey of British and German youth released by us and the Goethe-Institut.

Pale People in the Rain

This research showed that young, high achievers in the United States had an image of the UK that was seriously out of kilter with reality, with little or no understanding of the UK’s contemporary contributions to science and technology, music or architecture.

The research was commissioned to build up a picture of the changing face of the US, as population and economic power shifts towards the south and the west of the country.

Carried out among high-achieving students from growing ethnic minority populations in the two economic power-house states of California and Texas, the research revealed a view of the UK as a ‘tea and crumpets’ outdated and traditional society.

Read more:
Press release for Pale People in the Rain 
Powerpoint presentation for Pale People in the Rain: Perceptions of the UK among American Minority students.

2003

70 Most Beautiful Words

Mother is the most beautiful word in the English language, according to a survey of over 40,000 overseas voters and learners of English at our teaching centres. The survey was conducted to coincide with our 70th anniversary celebrations.

We asked over 7,000 learners in 46 countries what they considered to be the most beautiful words in the English language. In addition an online poll was run via our websites in all non-English speaking countries. Over 35,000 people voted.

According to the survey results, the top ten most beautiful words in the English language are as follows:

1. Mother
2. Passion
3. Smile
4. Love
5. Eternity
6. Fantastic
7. Destiny
8. Freedom
9. Liberty
10. Tranquillity