Copy of a reply to an academic who invited me to give a philosophy lecture
Dear Dr ...
Thank you for your invitation to give a lecture for the cultural season at the ... academy.
However, I am afraid I have to decline the invitation, as I am far too occupied with supporting myself by my own efforts. We are totally unfunded by any organisation or individual, academic or otherwise, and my colleagues and I have to support ourselves and the institutional framework by investment. This takes up most of our time and energy.
My response might be different if the academy were prepared to make a significant donation to Oxford Forum which would go towards covering our ongoing costs.
If, as you say, you admire my opinions, and wish me to be able to express them, I would be very grateful if you would encourage people and organisations to give me financial support. I am currently being prevented from publishing books or taking part in academic events by complete lack of funding.
Thank you again for your invitation.
With kind regards, etc.