Big Ideas The future of democracy? With Jon Sopel, Nick Bryant and Rosalind Dixon
Jun 18, 2026
Rosalind Dixon, law professor and founder of the Resilient Democracy Lab; Nick Bryant, seasoned broadcaster and interviewer; Jon Sopel, veteran political journalist and author. They debate declining trust in institutions. They explore social media’s outrage machine, the appeal of outsiders, how crises fueled populism, risks to elections and which institutional features might protect democracy.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Liberal Democracy's Core Is Often Underappreciated
- Liberal democracy's basic institutions are often taken for granted despite delivering free voting, peaceful transfer of power and rule of law.
- Jon Sopel warns neglecting these strengths leaves space for populists to dismantle them, using lively UK examples about declining faith.
Address Economic Grievances With Tangible Policies
- Politicians must address real economic grievances and offer tangible policies for people feeling left behind.
- Sopel warns 'loveless' landslides fail if leaders can't articulate relatable change, using Keir Starmer's quiet incrementalism as a caution.
2008 Crash Laid The Groundwork For Populism
- The 2008 financial crash had a long tail that undermined living standards and fuelled political disruption.
- Sopel links offshoring and permanent job loss to voter anger that enabled Brexit and Trump in 2016.
