Politics Theory Other Rewind: Alexander Gallas on the Thatcherite offensive
Nov 15, 2025
Alexander Gallas, an Assistant Professor in Political Science at the University of Kassel and author of 'The Thatcherite Offensive', delves into the nuances of Thatcherism. He discusses the contrasting views of Stuart Hall and Bob Jessop on hegemony. Gallas distinguishes between one-nation and two-nation hegemonic strategies, revealing the divide exploited by Thatcher's policies. He also examines the enduring influence of Thatcherism on New Labour, the rise of a finance-led economy, and the lessons this holds for contemporary politics, especially in relation to union strategies.
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Thatcherism's Populist Consent
- Thatcherism organised significant consent by framing itself as speaking for hardworking, aspiring people against vested interests.
- Stuart Hall's camp emphasised this populist hegemonic appeal as central to Thatcherism's success.
One‑Nation vs Two‑Nation Hegemonies
- Gallas distinguishes one-nation and two-nation hegemonic projects to explain types of support Thatcherism won.
- He classifies Thatcherism as a two-nation project that targeted some groups while attacking others.
Dividing 'Deserving' From 'Undeserving'
- Thatcherite rhetoric split society into 'deserving' hardworking people and 'undeserving' idle or privileged groups.
- This framing legitimised attacks on trade unions and privileged elite networks.
