

Islam and The Battle For Britain: Past, Present and Future | Sean Oliver-Dee & David Goodhart
14 snips Aug 8, 2025
David Goodhart is a British journalist focused on immigration and national identity, while Dr. Sean Oliver-Dee is a Religions tutor at Oxford, specializing in US-British relations with Islam. They delve into the intricacies of nationalism in the UK, contrasting 'anywheres' with 'somewheres.' The historical ties of British imperialism with Muslim communities are discussed, alongside contemporary debates on Sharia law and the evolving identities of young Muslims. They also tackle the challenges of multiculturalism, exploring how Britain can balance diversity with social cohesion.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Left's Postwar Anti-Nationalism
- After WWII the left linked nationalism with catastrophe and embraced internationalism.
- David Goodhart says this shaped postwar openness to immigration.
Moderate Nationalism Enables Solidarity
- Moderate nationalism builds shared purpose needed for public goods.
- David Goodhart argues both left and right should defend a common identity.
Empire's Social Cohesion Policy Persisted
- Britain historically managed Muslim populations to preserve imperial stability.
- Sean Oliver-Dee notes a third of the world's Muslims lived under British rule in 1900.