Cable Street

In the 1990s, progressive parties turned away from working-class policies and embraced more rightwing ideas. So why did this happen? Political scientist Tom O'Grady thinks he has the answer. His analysis shows that the type of elected official matters a great deal. The decline of working class politicians, and the rise of the careerist managerial-class can help explain it. We also talk about his fascinating analysis about how politicians can shape public opinion, and why progressives need to lead, rather than follow, public opinion. To access members-only episodes, bonus readings and additional analysis by me, your host Geoff Sharpe, please purchase a cable membership. You can use the code "cablestreet" to get the first month for only $1 - join today Show Notes Tom O'Grady - Website, Twitter Decline in working class politicians, shifted Labour towards right wing policy - read here Politicians must dare to shape public opinion, not just follow it - read here