History Matters to Sir Trevor Phillips | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Feb 14, 2023
auto_awesome
Sir Trevor Phillips, founder of the Policy Exchange’s History Matters project, discusses the importance of history, race, and free speech. Topics include public opinion on changing street names and pulling down statues, race relations in Britain today, the longevity of the House of Windsor, the problems with politics and journalism, and exploring historical counterfactuals and speculating on the impact of Bobby Kennedy's survival.
The Black Lives Matter movement's focus on white guilt overshadowed the goal of genuine representation for black lives.
Preserving historical objects and stories, including those related to slavery, is crucial for a complete understanding of the past.
Investigative journalism and a focus on substantive knowledge are essential in modern politics.
Deep dives
Principles for Change: A Critical Analysis of Black Lives Matter Movement
Trevor Phillips, the former head of the Commission for Racial Equality, reflects on his founding document, 'Principles for Change', which aimed to govern the changes to history teaching and public displays of history during the Black Lives Matter movement. Phillips critiques the movement, stating that its focus was not genuinely on black lives and their representation, but rather a display of white individuals expressing guilt or remorse for their ancestors' actions. He emphasizes the importance of restoring balance and ensuring that change is driven by truthful reasons and involves consultation with the affected communities.
Preserving History and Avoiding Erasure
Phillips argues against the erasure of history and the rewriting of narratives, stating that removing statues, changing street names, and altering curricula may lead to forgetting past experiences and lessons. He highlights the necessity of preserving historical objects and stories, including those related to slavery, to ensure a complete understanding of our past. Phillips also criticizes universities discouraging the reading of slave narratives, as it contradicts the aim of recognizing the atrocities of the transatlantic slave trade.
Assessing the State of Racial Race Relations in Britain
As a former chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, Phillips shares his perspectives on race relations in Britain. He acknowledges that racism still exists but argues that overall, Britain is one of the least racist cultures. He discusses the growth of the mixed-race population in the country, highlighting it as a unique development driven by love, freedom, and voluntary migration. Phillips emphasizes that ethnic and cultural differences are celebrated, although he cautions against tolerating practices that violate fundamental principles of equality and human rights.
Challenges of Modern Politics and the Role of Journalism
Phillips tackles the challenges of modern politics, particularly the decline into character assassination and the focus on superficial traits rather than substantive knowledge. He criticizes journalism for emphasizing trivialities and glorifying mediocrity, which leads to a lack of understanding on important issues. Phillips calls for a return to investigative journalism that delves into policy choices and provides politicians with opportunities to explain their decisions. He emphasizes the need for curiosity-driven reporting and a focus on the public good.
The Role of the Royal Family and the Importance of the Commonwealth
Reflecting on the role of the British monarchy, Phillips highlights the importance of Queen Elizabeth II in unifying the Commonwealth. He credits the Queen for bringing people together and enabling cultural exchange beyond the periphery of London. Phillips praises the Queen's ability to transcend racial barriers and emphasizes her personal courage in promoting racial integration. He predicts that the monarchy will continue to be a significant institution due to its enduring relevance and strong public support.
Sir Trevor Phillips is the founder of the Policy Exchange’s History Matters project, the UK chairman of the Index on Censorship, and was longest-serving equalities commissioner in British history. Here he gives his characteristically trenchant views on the subjects of history, race, and free speech.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
