How to Survive in Politically Volatile Times
3Digest
This podcast features David French's conversation with Rory Stewart, exploring the rise of populism and its impact on British politics. Stewart, a former Conservative MP, details his experience with the party's shift towards populism, highlighting key turning points like Brexit and the increasing intolerance of dissenting voices. He describes the intense social sanctions and personal attacks he faced for opposing the dominant narrative, including being labeled a traitor and facing online harassment. The conversation also touches upon the broader phenomenon of political homelessness, where individuals feel alienated from both major political parties. Finally, Stewart offers advice to ordinary citizens, emphasizing the importance of upholding moral values and truth in the face of populist movements and encouraging active engagement in defending democratic principles.
Outlines
The Rise of Populism and Political Homelessness in the UK and US
The podcast begins with a brief introduction, then delves into the concept of political homelessness and the transformation of the UK Conservative Party, focusing on Rory Stewart's experiences and observations regarding the rise of populism in both the UK and US. This includes discussions of Brexit, social sanctions against dissenters, and the personal costs of resistance.
Rory Stewart's Journey and the Conservative Party's Transformation
This section details Rory Stewart's political career, his opposition to Brexit, and his expulsion from the Conservative Party. It explores the factors contributing to the party's transformation, including the impact of the 2000s, the financial crisis, social media, and wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Resisting Populism and a Message for Citizens
This section covers Stewart's personal response to the rise of populism, his continued engagement in fighting for his beliefs, and the challenges and costs of resistance. It concludes with a message for ordinary citizens on the importance of morality, truth, and defending democratic values.
Keywords
Populism
A political approach characterized by appealing to the concerns and prejudices of ordinary people, often involving strong leadership, nationalist sentiment, and opposition to the establishment.
Political Homelessness
The feeling of alienation and disconnection from mainstream political parties due to dissatisfaction with both the left and right.
Brexit
The UK's withdrawal from the European Union, a significant political event that exposed deep social divisions and fueled populist sentiment.
Social Sanctions
Penalties or punishments, often social, imposed on individuals expressing dissenting opinions or challenging the dominant narrative.
Rory Stewart
Former British Conservative MP, known for his opposition to Brexit and his outspoken criticism of populism.
Conservative Party (UK)
The UK's center-right political party, which underwent significant transformation in recent years.
Donald Trump
Former US President, whose rise to power is discussed in relation to the broader context of populism.
Q&A
What were some of the key turning points that indicated the shift within the UK Conservative Party, according to Rory Stewart?
Stewart points to the Brexit referendum and the surprising public support for Boris Johnson as major turning points, revealing extreme divisions within British society and a lack of understanding of Brexit's implications among fellow MPs.
How did the rise of populism in the UK manifest itself in terms of social pressure and personal attacks on dissenting voices?
Stewart describes being labeled a traitor, elitist, and out of touch by right-wing media and online commentators, facing personal attacks questioning his masculinity and intelligence, highlighting the intense social sanctions imposed on those who oppose populist leaders.
What advice does Rory Stewart offer to ordinary citizens who feel disenfranchised and want to engage in the fight for democratic values?
Stewart emphasizes prioritizing morality and upholding truth as central to democracy, encouraging individuals to reflect on their values, engage in meaningful actions, and never allow their moral intuitions to be silenced. He stresses the importance of not retreating from the fight.
Show Notes
In this episode, the columnist David French and Rory Stewart explore how small-c conservatives can keep hope alive in the midst of a populist onslaught.
Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.
This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Carole Sabouraud and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.
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