After almost five years and 44 episodes of the SmallDataForum with the same old (though always fresh and sparkly) line-up of Neville, Sam and Thomas, we’re introducing one-on-one interviews as a new format, and an extension to the show.
In the first interview of this new series, Thomas talks with Darren Lilleker, professor of political communication at Bournemouth University (and Thomas’ patient, tolerant PhD supervisor).
Main themes include
- the increasing professionalisation, personalisation and commercialisation of politics
- the tension between “permanent campaigning” and governing in politics
- the public’s dissatisfaction with traditional politicians
- how charisma has replaced practical skills and competence (because legislation is boring and political entertainment is easier than day to day governance).
We weave a tangled web of themes from Thatcher to COVID and speculate that perhaps in the yin and yang of political leadership in the UK, the next Prime Minister will be rather less flamboyant.
However, Professor Lilleker is not optimistic when it comes to self-reflection in politics, and change from within: “what is needed for politics is never going to come from politicians.” The hope is that the public will demand from its political leaders the qualities required for good governance. So far, the signs are not altogether encouraging.
We offer you two ways to access the interview:
1: Watch the interview video on our new YouTube channel:
2: Listen to or download the audio podcast MP3 file:
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