Duncan Robinson, Political Editor for The Economist, delves into the intriguing influence of hobbyist lobbies on British politics. He discusses America’s declining murder rates against the backdrop of rising violence in specific neighborhoods like Roseland. The conversation explores the complex relationship between democracy and economic prosperity, questioning conventional beliefs. Robinson also highlights how passionate interest groups like grouse shooters can significantly shape public policy. Tune in for insights into how personal passions drive political agendas.
Violence interruption groups like Chicago CRED are being credited for the decrease in gun violence rates in neighborhoods like Roseland, Chicago, indicating a potential end to the spike in violence that began in 2020.
While the connection between democracy and economic prosperity remains complex, economists agree that institutions built in democracies foster economic growth, as seen in a study showing a 20% increase in GDP after a permanent transition from autocracy to democracy.
Deep dives
Gun violence rates falling in Chicago and across America
Gun violence rates, particularly in neighborhoods like Roseland, Chicago, have shown a significant decrease this year compared to previous years. Violence interruption groups like Chicago CRED, who work to prevent violence before it occurs, are being credited for the decline. Other cities in America have also witnessed a drop in murder rates, indicating a potential end to the spike in violence that began in 2020. Experts attribute the decrease to the resumption of normalcy after the disruptions caused by the pandemic, including the reopening of schools and the restoration of social services.
The link between democracy and economic growth
While the connection between democracy and economic prosperity remains complex, there is a consensus among economists that the institutions built in democracies, such as trustworthy governments and reliable legal systems, foster economic growth. A study by economists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that countries making a permanent transition from autocracy to democracy experienced a 20% increase in GDP after 25 years. However, the switch to democracy is often challenging, leading to short-term economic disruptions and a loss in GDP growth due to the need for political reform and potential political instability.
The influence of hobby lobbies on politics
Hobby lobbies, such as grouse shooters, outdoor swimmers, and Classic Car enthusiasts, have demonstrated considerable influence on politics in the UK. These hobbyists have been successful in shaping legislation and policies that impact their interests. Politicians often regard hobby lobbies warily due to the potential backlash and campaigns that can arise from attempting to change regulations. The example of grouse shooting, which covers a significant portion of the British countryside for a relatively small number of participants, highlights the outsized effect that hobby lobbies can have on political decision-making.
The absolute numbers remain troubling but a close look at statistics reveals that, across American cities, fewer people are being killed. That democracy is good for a country’s economy is taken as orthodoxy—but given the time and costs to make the transition, the reality is a bit more complicated (09:38). And why Britain’s government is in hock to the country’s hobbyists (15:38).
For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer