Direct: Matthew Goodwin, Academic, Author and Pollster
Jan 12, 2024
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British political scientist Matthew Goodwin discusses the emergence of a new class of elites and their disconnect from the general public. He explores the realignment of British politics after Brexit, the troubling state of academia, the influence of critical theory, the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, and the need for a new class of heroes to combat cancel culture.
The emergence of a new class of elites is causing both sides of the political establishment to drift further from their constituents worldwide.
The Conservative Party in Britain failed to reshape their electorate after Boris Johnson's victory in 2019, leading to policy decisions that did not align with the wishes of their new base.
The new elite, dominant in various institutions, dismisses dissenting viewpoints, imposes its values, and preserves an entrenched status quo, breeding frustration and a push for change.
Deep dives
Overview of Matthew Goodwin's book on revolution in British politics
Matthew Goodwin's book explores the political revolution in Britain, highlighted by the rise of Nigel Farage, Brexit, and Boris Johnson. He argues that these events reflect a growing rebellion and frustration among voters towards a new elite in British society. The new elite is imposing its values on the rest of the country, denying many people a voice and losing touch with wider society. Goodwin emphasizes the need for reforming institutions to give people more stake in the direction of their societies.
Conservative Party's failure to respond to political realignment
After Boris Johnson's victory in 2019, the Conservative Party failed to understand the country's shifting political landscape. They were given a unique coalition of working-class, non-graduate, and older voters who wanted less immigration and regional investment. However, the Conservative Party did not reshape their electorate and instead made policy decisions that did not align with the wishes of this new base. Goodwin argues that conservatives should have embraced the realignment and stayed committed to the new electorate.
Rise of the new elite and their disconnect from society
The rise of the new elite in Britain and other Western democracies is characterized by a detachment from the values and concerns of the wider population. Goodwin highlights the dominance of this elite in various institutions, including politics, media, academia, and cultural organizations. He argues that this new elite imposes its values, dismisses dissenting viewpoints, and preserves an entrenched status quo. This disconnect between the ruling class and voters breeds frustration, disillusionment, and a push for change.
Challenges of identity politics and the eroding national community
Identity politics, such as critical race theory and gender identity theory, have gained significant influence within academia, media, and cultural institutions. Goodwin argues that this has led to a denigration of the national community, a focus on divisive narratives, and a dismissal of national identity. He emphasizes the importance of preserving national identities and addressing the concerns and aspirations of those who hold a strong attachment to their country's history, culture, and ways of life.
Hope for a counter-elite and grassroots movements
To address these challenges, Goodwin calls for the emergence of a counter-elite—an organized, intellectually anchored group that challenges the dominant narrative and advocates for reforms. He highlights the importance of financial insulation and support for individuals and movements that resist the current trends. Goodwin believes that promoting unity, organization, and financial support can help build a counter-elite that can foster positive change and bridge the growing divide between the ruling class and the wider population.
In this interview, John speaks with British political scientist, Matthew Goodwin.Matthew recounts the emergence of a new class of elites and the ways in which they have diverged from the more traditional British ruling class, and more importantly, from the general public.
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