Special: How progressives blew it - and how they can fix it. With Peter Hyman
Jan 27, 2025
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Peter Hyman, a former senior advisor to Tony Blair and Keir Starmer, and founder of School 21, dives into the pitfalls of progressive politics. He identifies the seven deadly sins of centrism and discusses the growing threat of populism. Hyman stresses the importance of reconnecting with the working class and addressing economic grievances. He also critiques the conventional education system, advocating for reforms that prioritize creativity and emotional intelligence to prepare students for modern challenges. A thought-provoking conversation!
Progressives must confront their failures, particularly in communication, to counteract the rise of populist nationalism effectively.
Crafting a relatable national narrative that blends pride with inclusion is essential for progressives to regain voter trust and support.
Reforming education to promote creativity and critical thinking over traditional exam focus is vital for preparing students for modern economic challenges.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Progressives
The discussion emphasizes the need for progressives to acknowledge their complicity in the rise of populism, particularly in light of figures like Donald Trump. The notion is presented that the progressive center has often failed by being overly abstract, patronizing, and lacking in clear communication with the electorate. This disconnect has allowed populists to thrive by appealing directly to people's concerns, often at the expense of nuanced discussions. The reference to the 'seven deadly sins' of progressivism highlights how progressive failures have contributed to the growing support for far-right movements across Western democracies.
Crafting a Compelling Narrative
An effective narrative is pivotal for progressives to counteract populism; this includes the importance of crafting a relatable story that resonates broadly with the electorate. The discussion points out that while right-leaning parties like MAGA have successfully built a cohesive patriotic narrative, progressives often struggle to create an unifying, national message. By failing to embrace elements of national identity, progressives risk alienating voters who find pride in their country. Therefore, focusing on a shared vision that encapsulates both national pride and inclusiveness is essential for restoring faith in progressive politics.
Navigating the Immigration Debate
The conversation addresses the politically sensitive issue of immigration, emphasizing that progressive parties must engage with this topic meaningfully to win the trust of the electorate. It is argued that ignoring immigration feeds into populist narratives and worsens public anxiety. Progressives are urged to facilitate open and honest discussions that balance the need for secure borders with the benefits of immigration. Proactive engagement in this arena is viewed as vital to reestablish credibility and mitigate the far-right's influence.
Redefining Education for Future Generations
Education is framed as a crucial area needing reform to adequately prepare students for the rapidly changing modern economy. The discussion advocates a move away from traditional examination-focused education towards a more holistic approach that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and practical skills. Schools should emphasize not just knowledge acquisition but also personal development, resilience, and problem-solving abilities. Such a transformation in the education system is essential to equip young people for the complexities of today's world and diminish the divide between academic and vocational paths.
The Role of Charisma and Disruption
Charisma and the willingness to disrupt the status quo are positioned as critical factors for political success in the current climate. The discussion suggests that political parties must embrace bold, alternative narratives to energize and attract voters, particularly those who feel disenfranchised. Effective communication and strong public messaging can galvanize support, contrasting with the often technocratic and cautious approaches seen in the current political landscape. A more dynamic and engaging approach is deemed necessary to reclaim trust and inspire the electorate toward progressive goals.
In a wide-ranging and fascinating conversation, Peter Hyman - former senior advisor to both Tony Blair and Keir Starmer - discusses his recent New European cover story and the reaction to it. What are the seven deadly sins of progressive centrist politics and its adherents? How can we stem the rising tide of populist nationalism? And how is Keir Starmer’s government doing so far? Peter - who also set up the ground-breaking School 21 in Stratford, London - also discusses what’s wrong with our education system and why radical change is much needed if we are going to prepare our children for the challenges of life in the 21st Century. Enjoy!
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