Ella Whelan

Political commentators and writers Inaya Folarin Iman and Ella Whelan join Tom Slater for a spiked podcast election special. They discuss Labour's victory, Reform revolt, Islamic sectarianism, Tory and SNP failures.

Join a vibrant discussion featuring James Orr, an Associate Professor of the Philosophy of Religion, and feminist author Ella Whelan. They delve into the state of democracy today, weighing its challenges against authoritarian admiration. Tim Stanley shares historical insights, while sociologist Rhiannon Firth critiques representative democracy and considers anarchism as an alternative. Robert Griffiths presents a communist perspective, and Erica Benner offers insights on reforming democratic systems. Can democracy still claim to be the least worst option?

Joining the discussion are Ash Sarkar, a political commentator; Ella Whelan, a feminist author; Giles Fraser, a vocal priest; and Mona Siddiqui, an interfaith expert. They tackle the contentious issue of imposing VAT on private school fees, questioning if it's a matter of justice or spite. The guests share their educational experiences, examining socioeconomic divides and the impact on access to quality education. They also debate the moral implications of independent schooling and the state’s role in fostering equity, raising critical questions about privilege and choice in education.

Ella Whelan, Tom Slater, and Fraser Myers discuss Laurence Fox's sexist comments, the racism of multiculturalism, and the fall of Ibram X Kendi. They also talk about the controversy and calls to shut down GB News, media freedom, the criticism and misunderstanding of multiculturalism, financial difficulties in the Black Lives Matter movement, and the shift in focus from George Floyd's murder to diversity demands and identitarianism.

Claire Fox, a former Brexit Party MEP and Director of the Academy of Ideas, joins journalist Ella Whelan, known for her insights on social issues. They dive into the importance of reviving open debate in today's polarized landscape, advocating for diverse dialogue over performative conflict. The conversation critiques identity politics, urging a focus on ideas rather than representation quotas. They also emphasize the necessity of empathy and understanding in political discourse, especially for younger generations navigating complex issues.