SMF & CAGE - Anarchy in the UK (and Everywhere Else): Hard evidence on the deep roots of Populism

In the recent years, populism has been pivotal in polarising politics in western democracies, by bringing turmoil and awakening anti-establishment sentiment.

The Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy (CAGE) will present new research that uses hard data to explain the deep roots of populist politics and identifies a significant common theme: distrust in institutions such as parliament, the media and big business.

Date: Wednesday 18 September, 12:30-14:00
Location: Social Market Foundation, Westminster, London SW1P 3QB

This work, by Mirko Draca of Warwick University, suggests that traditional ideas of Left and Right should give way to a new dividing line, between anarchy and a centrist respect for rules and institutions. An economist by training, Dr Draca uses machine-learning analysis of more than 80,000 survey responses to identify global trends and attitudes common to populist voters.

Mirko Draca will present his work at an event chaired by James Kirkup, SMF Director, followed by a debate about how politicians and other political actors can respond to populist challenges to the institutions and conventions that underpin representative democracy and the market economy.

If you have any access requirements, please contact Director at smf dot co dot uk in advance of the event.

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