We have for years been struggling in coming to terms with the effects of globalisation on our economy & national identity going from one extreme view to another. We have also for the last year been trying to come to terms with the BREXIT referendum results and with the rise of nationalist alt-right politics that have come to dominate our political landscape in the West. Plenty has been written about the topics and we’ve certainly had our fill from extreme views at both ends of the spectrum. The problem is that we see no middle ground able to provide sensible interpretation and more importantly a sensible path forward, until today that is – and I am NOT talking about politicians here.
So what I would like you to do is – with fresh minds – view this presentation by Professor Ngaire Woods founding Dean of the Blavatnik School of Government and professor of Global Economic Governance at the University of Oxford. The lecture is entitled “Backlash: Is Globalisation Killing Democracy?” where she talks about the BREXIT referendum, Democracy and the rise of the nationalist movement throughout Europe and beyond. I have to say I myself was quite impressed with the presentation and entirely share her view on all the issues, particularly her last statement quoting Spanish sociologist Juan Linz that Democracies fell due to the failures of Liberal/Democratic parties to protect Democracy & its institutions and NOT because of the strength of populist/nationalist parties. She also brilliantly articulates in simple terms the pitfalls of Referendum campaigns and way to seek better forums that encourage engagement/thought. Hope you enjoy.