Sam Freedman

David sits down with Sam Freedman, a political writer and commentator, to tackle the impact of social media on democracy. They explore if we're more vulnerable to disinformation today and discuss how TikTok's attention-driven nature shifts political engagement. The conversation highlights the media's evolution towards entertainment, the challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity, and the need for enhanced media literacy in schools. Sam also reflects on how youth movements leverage social media for political change, raising questions about the future of democratic processes.

Sam Freedman, a former senior policy advisor in the UK's Department for Education and author of 'Failed State', discusses the deep-rooted dysfunction in British governance. He explores the dangers of centralization, the dominance of executive power, and how modern media dynamics are shaping politics. Freedman emphasizes the need for radical reforms, including decentralization and enhancing parliamentary scrutiny, to restore trust. He draws parallels with the U.S. governance crisis, highlighting common challenges in Western democracies.

In this engaging discussion, Sam Freedman, a senior fellow at the Institute for Government and Prospect Magazine columnist, delves into the chaotic world of the Westminster press lobby. He argues that 24-hour news pressures have pushed journalists toward sensationalism, impacting public understanding and policy. Freedman contrasts the UK media landscape with European successes and critiques the press's focus on narratives over policy analysis. He also highlights how political figures manipulate media perceptions, reshaping the dynamics of political communication.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Sam Freedman, a senior fellow at the Institute for Government and author of 'Failed State,' analyzes the governance crisis facing Britain and the US. He reveals alarming statistics on child poverty and institutional dysfunction, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions over short-term political gains. Freedman explores the impact of social media on governance and draws parallels between the political landscapes of the UK and US. He critiques outsourcing in public services, spotlighting the Post Office scandal as a case of institutional failure.

In this conversation, Sam Freedman, a renowned political commentator and author of "Failed State," dives into the complexities of education policy. He highlights the disconnect between government announcements and the reality teachers face. Sam discusses the rising tide of educational inequities and how socioeconomic challenges impact students' progress. He critiques the removal of standardized assessments and advocates for comprehensive reforms to improve educational outcomes. With humor and insight, he also touches on the importance of long-term planning for education policymakers.