Will Davies

In this discussion, Professor Will Davies, an expert in political economy and author of 'The Happiness Industry', shares his insights on the chaotic political landscape shaped by Trump's ambitions. They delve into 'libertarian authoritarianism' and the erosion of democratic norms, especially among youth disillusioned with political systems. Topics like the shifting perceptions of immigration in Britain and Silicon Valley's influence on politics underscore the intertwining of societal anxieties with economic realities. The duo also critiques environmental elitism amidst climate discussions.

Professor Will Davies discusses the decline of expertise in society, the rise of valuing emotions over facts, the historical context of fake news and post-truth, the critique of technocratic expertise, the concept of a 'nervous state' in modern democracies, and the virtue signaling and tactical debates in public discourse.

Will Davies, a political economist and author, and Matthew Goodwin, a professor of politics, dive into the seismic shifts of 2021. They debate the impact of Brexit and Biden's presidency on UK politics, exploring how these events could exacerbate existing cultural divides. The duo discusses the rise of populism, the effects of educational disparities, and the implications for US-EU relations. They offer contrasting views on Britain’s future, emphasizing the need for dialogue about national identity in an increasingly fragmented landscape.