Danny Dorling, author of 'Shattered Nation: Inequality and the Geography of A Failing State,' joins Hannah Fearn to discuss how social issues contribute to mean-spirited attitudes in the UK. They explore the country's inequality, fear-driven decisions like private schooling, and the lack of help for those in need. The podcast delves into studies on anger and meanness, exploitation, blaming immigrants, flaws in the education system, past instances of resolving social divisions and inequality, and potential policy solutions.
Social issues and inequality contribute to mean-spiritedness in the UK.
Attitudes towards poverty and inequality reveal conflicting opinions and disparities in society.
Deep dives
The Rise of Divisive Politics
The podcast explores the increasing divisiveness in politics, discussing how social media and inequality contribute to this phenomenon. Research indicates that in more unequal societies, people become less trusting, angrier, and meaner. The podcast highlights Twitter as an interesting example, where conversations in English tend to be less civil compared to those in other languages like Spanish or Finnish. Countries with greater inequality, such as the UK and the USA, experience more uncivil and hateful conversations.
Attitudes towards Poverty and Inequality
The podcast examines attitudes towards poverty and inequality, highlighting a poll that reveals mixed opinions. While a majority believe that everyone should be able to engage in seasonal celebrations, there is less agreement when it comes to accessing basic necessities like a TV or enjoying leisure time for benefit claimants or disabled individuals. The podcast discusses how the wording of survey questions can influence responses and provides insights into the societal attitudes that contribute to these results.
Manipulation of Emotional Fault Lines
The podcast delves into how politicians exploit emotional fault lines in society to further their agendas. It cites the example of immigration, where fear of the other is stoked to divert attention from underlying issues such as lack of school places and healthcare services. The podcast emphasizes that people must be aware of being baited into divisive discussions and urges listeners to approach debates with kindness and empathy, even towards those with opposing views.
Brits seem to be more mean-spirited than ever. This is clear on social media, but also in attitudes towards poorer sections of society. How did we become so mean, and what can we do about it? Hannah Fearn is joined by professor of human geography Danny Dorling, author of new book Shattered Nation: Inequality and the Geography of A Failing State, to find out how social issues change attitudes towards those who need the most help in society – and how we can fight to be kinder.
“The UK is one of the most unequal countries in Europe.”
“People spend money on private schools because they are scared.”
“Those who are really comfortable don’t think people should be helped out.”
Written and presented by Hannah Fearn. Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz with Liam Tait. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Simon Williams. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production