A decade ago, the hedge fund manager Paul Marshall was known as a Lib Dem donor and founder of the Ark academy chain. Now, as the owner of UnHerd, GB News and, since last September, the Spectator, he’s a right-wing media tycoon. Peter Geoghegan joins Thomas Jones to discuss Marshall’s transformation. He explains the ‘symbiotic relationship’ between Marshall and Michael Gove, their shared connection to evangelical Christianity, and the changing shape of conservative politics in Britain.Find further reading on the episode page: https://lrb.me/marshallpodSponsored links:Use the code ‘LRB’ to get £150 off Serious Readers lights here: https://www.seriousreaders.com/lrb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Freya Johnston teaches English at Oxford and has edited Thomas Love Peacock’s novels, while Thomas Keymer from Toronto has written extensively on Peacock. Together, they dive into Peacock's unconventional novel, 'Crotchet Castle.' They discuss the book's unique approach, favoring dialogue over character development and offering satirical takes on the societal issues of Peacock's time. The conversation also highlights themes like utilitarianism, whimsical societal ideas, and strong female characters, particularly Lady Clorinda's political charm in a patriarchal setting.

Dani Garavelli, a journalist for the Herald on Sunday, has been investigating the heartbreaking cases of Katie Allan and William Lindsay, who tragically died in Scottish prisons. She discusses the alarming suicide rates among young inmates, revealing a healthcare system that fails them. Garavelli highlights the systemic flaws in youth justice, advocating for urgent reforms. She also shares insights into the personal impact of these tragedies on families and the need for societal change to support mental health in custody.

Brett Christophers, a Professor of Human Geography at Uppsala University and author of 'The Price is Wrong,' discusses the alarming shift in climate action from proactive policies to resignation. He critiques traditional economic theories linked to environmental issues and highlights the paradox of fossil fuel companies amidst climate change. The impact of COVID on emissions, the pitfalls of corporate solutions, and the importance of grassroots activism, especially in cases like Ecuador's referendum against oil exploitation, are also examined.

Toril Moi, a celebrated critic and feminist literary theorist from Duke University, dives deep into the world of Norwegian novelist Vigdis Hjorth. They explore Hjorth's unique portrayal of intimate yet complicated relationships, from estranged siblings to tormented lovers. Moi highlights the gender biases Hjorth faced in her career and discusses how these misconceptions overshadow her philosophical insights. The conversation also touches on the complexity of translating Hjorth's work, emphasizing her blend of humor and tragedy in addressing themes of identity and personal accountability.

Colin Burrow, an academic specializing in 19th-century British literature, dives deep into Jane Austen's 'Mansfield Park.' He highlights Fanny Price's challenges as a poor relation, revealing the novel's sharp critique of wealth and morality. Discussion centers on the theme of 'improvement' symbolized by Mr. Rushworth's estate and contrasts Fanny's moral fortitude with her relatives' ignorance of slavery's implications. The conversation unpacks the transactional nature of marriage and how social status complicates personal ambitions in Austen's world.

Jackson Lears, a Professor of History at Rutgers University and an insightful author, delves into the complexities of Ronald Reagan's persona in this engaging discussion. Lears explores Reagan's rise from humble beginnings to the Hollywood spotlight and eventually the White House. He highlights how Reagan's cinematic background shaped his nuclear policy, revealing a fascinating disconnect between idealism and reality. The conversation further examines the lasting implications of Reagan's economic and foreign policies, including their deepening effects on inequality and the emergence of Christian nationalism.

Loubna Mrie, a Syrian activist and writer, shares powerful reflections on the aftermath of Assad's regime, emphasizing the emotional shift of Syrians from fear to disbelief. Omar Dahi, an economics professor, provides keen analysis on the geopolitical landscape, detailing the rise of Islamist groups and the complex identity struggles faced by the populace. They discuss the dire humanitarian conditions, the challenges of governance in a post-conflict Syria, and the emotional conflicts of the Syrian diaspora grappling with the prospect of returning home.

Chal Ravens, Head of audio at Navarra Media and co-host of No Tags, dives into ABBA's fascinating journey from Swedish origins to global stardom. They discuss how the band's rise coincided with societal shifts in 1970s Sweden, highlighting their manager's influence and the cultural dynamics at play. Ravens explores ABBA's unexpected acceptance in punk circles and their profound impact on the LGBTQ+ community. The conversation also reflects on ABBA's legacy in modern pop, emphasizing their enduring relevance in today's music landscape.

Neal Ascherson, a seasoned journalist with six decades of experience, shares riveting stories from his extensive career, including a close call with a historical scoop involving Mikhail Gorbachev. He reflects on the impact of Claud Cockburn's journalism, ethics during brutal conflicts, and the nuances of transitioning from Communism. Ascherson discusses his time in colonial Uganda, the personal complexities of mentorship, and the lively spirit of Poland during its fight for independence. He also critiques the thin line between patriotism and nationalism.