Best of the Spectator

Richard Dawkins, a renowned evolutionary biologist, shares insights from his week in diary form. Nicholas Farrell discusses Italy’s bold migration strategies and their implications for the EU. Mary Wakefield reflects on the moral complexities of World War II, revealing personal anecdotes tied to historical lessons. Lisa Hilton uncovers the intriguing history of George Villiers, favourite of King James I. Meanwhile, Philip Hensher's humorous take on body image leads to a deeper exploration of societal perceptions and personal journeys.

Gavin Williamson, a Tory MP championing the removal of bishops from the House of Lords, sparks an intriguing debate about modern governance. He argues that a clergy-free House would better represent contemporary Britain and seeks support across party lines. The conversation touches on the historical role of bishops, the need for diversity, and the potential for cronyism. Notable figures, including Jeremy Corbyn, are expected to weigh in on this contentious issue, raising questions about the Church's representation of minority faiths in a changing political landscape.

Joining the discussion is Serre Verweij, a Vatican analyst based in the Netherlands, who offers deep insights into Pope Francis's recent appointment of 21 new cardinals. They dive into the surprising choices, including a 44-year-old bishop from the Ukrainian Greek Catholic community and an almost 80-year-old Dominican theologian. Verweij highlights a potential ideological shift, suggesting the Pope might be moving to the right, raising questions about the implications for future Church governance and the ongoing tensions between liberal and conservative factions.

Rupert Harrison, former chief of staff to George Osborne, analyzes Rachel Reeves's challenging budget strategies while Kate Andrews offers insights on the UK economy. The discussion shifts to assisted dying, with Charlie Falconer and Charles Moore passionately debating its implications. Finally, Philip Hensher and author Peter Parker delve into queer life in postwar Britain, revealing the evolving societal attitudes and the historical significance of decriminalization. Their insights shed light on a transformative era for LGBTQ+ rights.

Ryan Girdursky, founder of the 1776 Project PAC and author of the National Populist Newsletter, dives into the complex dynamics of the Catholic vote in U.S. elections. He discusses how this demographic influenced past elections, especially the contrasting preferences of Latino and white Catholics. The talk also touches on the impact of abortion, economic struggles, and cultural identity on voting patterns. Girdursky sheds light on how younger Catholics navigate their faith in the current political landscape, revealing the intricate relationship between religion and politics.

Sue Prideaux, a prize-winning biographer known for her captivating works on Nietzsche and Munch, explores the intriguing life of Paul Gauguin in her latest book. She reveals Gauguin's unexpected stint as an investment banker and his unique marriage. The discussion dives into his transformation from banker to artist, the challenges he faced in Paris, and his later life in Tahiti, where he championed anticolonial activism. Notably, she shares why she begins with an analysis of his decayed teeth, shedding light on Gauguin’s health and legacy.

In this engaging discussion, Republican strategist Luke Thompson shares his insights from working with high-profile campaigns like J.D. Vance's and Senate races for Bernie Moreno and Dave McCormick. He explores the contrasting ground games of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, analyzing postal voting and party registration impacts. Luke also delves into changing dynamics between unions and the Democratic Party, while unpacking how socio-economic factors shape Republican strategies against robust Democratic mobilization efforts. An enlightening look at a volatile election landscape!

Desmond Shum, an author and commentator on Chinese politics, shares his gripping story after his wife, Whitney Duan, vanished in 2017 amid a power struggle involving Xi Jinping. He reflects on their lavish life in the early 2000s, intertwined with China's elite, revealing the shocking reality of corruption and political intrigue. Shum discusses the erosion of China’s economic trajectory under Xi's rule and the skepticism surrounding the country's GDP figures. This candid conversation highlights the interplay between personal tragedy and the political landscape of a repressive regime.

Tracy-Ann Oberman, an acclaimed actress and writer known for her roles in "EastEnders" and "Doctor Who," dives into her unique reinterpretation of Shylock as a Jewish matriarch in her upcoming production. She shares her fascination with the Roman Empire and reflects on her transformative experiences in Moscow during perestroika. Oberman also discusses the heavy responsibility of being an unofficial spokesperson for the Jewish community while navigating the challenges of online hate. Her journey from soap opera to Shakespeare intertwines personal struggles and the significance of solidarity in the face of prejudice.

Joining the conversation are Michael Gove, former editor of The Spectator and British politician, who shares his vision for the magazine's future, and Max Jeffery, a journalist spotlighting the struggles of the Chagossian community in Crawley. Also featured is Christopher Howse, who reads a charming ode to lamplighting, contrasting nostalgia with advancing technology. The discussions navigate themes of cultural identity, the impact of modern venues like the Las Vegas Sphere, and the intriguing nuances of swearing in language.