Emily Maitlis interviews James O'Brien on his book 'How They Broke Britain'
Nov 24, 2023
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James O'Brien, bestselling author, discusses his book 'How They Broke Britain' with journalist Emily Maitlis. Topics include the decline of Britain influenced by right-wing media, Nigel Farage's impact, and Boris Johnson's rise. They also explore the influence of Rupert Murdoch on democracy, the blind spot and fear at the BBC, perceived liberal bias and commercial interests, consequences of Cameron's leadership and austerity on Brexit, and the lack of responsibility among content providers.
The book explores the damaging effects of right-wing media on public discourse and national unity.
The erosion of trust in political and media institutions has led to a lack of consequences for harmful actions and the promotion of misinformation.
The book evaluates the connection between austerity measures and the Brexit vote, highlighting the role of societal discontent and a desire for change.
Deep dives
The book explores the origins of anger and poor behavior in British politics
The book delves into the anger and poor behavior that have characterized British politics, examining how an ecosystem was created to allow for these phenomena. It questions the conditions that led to events like Brexit, Boris Johnson becoming prime minister, and instances of economic incompetence and insensitive language. The book aims to explain and analyze these abnormalities in order to better understand how they were allowed to happen.
The influence of right-wing media and its impact on public discourse
The book highlights the damaging effects of right-wing media, such as the Mail, Telegraph, and Murdoch press, on public discourse and national unity. It emphasizes how the media has fueled divisions and spread harmful ideologies. The analysis includes the evolution of Rupert Murdoch and his media empire, the transformation of the Tory party under right-wing influence, and the impact of lobby groups that have fueled nativist sentiments and fostered hostility towards foreigners.
The erosion of trust and the abandonment of objective reality
The book explores how trust has been eroded in political and media institutions, and how objective reality has been abandoned. It focuses on the breakdown of standards, truth, and accountability in politics, exemplified by incidents such as Owen Paterson's scandal and Boris Johnson's misleading statements. The authors argue that this erosion of trust has had a detrimental effect on society, leading to a lack of consequences for harmful actions and the promotion of misinformation.
The power dynamics between the BBC and right-wing politicians
The book delves into the complicated relationship between the BBC and right-wing politicians, addressing concerns of bias and impartiality. It raises questions about the fear-based approach often adopted by the BBC in response to accusations from certain politicians and media outlets. The book highlights instances where scrutiny has been compromised and explores the potential influence of right-wing figures within the BBC's decision-making processes.
The impact of austerity measures and welfare cuts on societal discontent
The book evaluates the connection between austerity measures and the Brexit vote, suggesting that welfare cuts played a role in fueling societal discontent. It references research linking rising inflation and public disillusionment with the government's policies. The analysis emphasizes that the vote for Brexit was not solely based on policy preferences but was also a manifestation of dissatisfaction and a desire for change. It underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the complex factors that influenced the Brexit vote.
This week, the tables have turned and James is in the hot seat. He sits down with journalist and host of The News Agents podcast, Emily Maitlis to discuss his bestselling book, How They Broke Britain, naming and shaming those responsible for the decline in politics, media and the economy.
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