The Road to Somewhere
The New Tribes Shaping British Politics
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Penguin Books Ltd
Published:28th Sep '17
Should be back in stock very soon
This insightful examination delves into societal divisions in Britain, as explored in The Road to Somewhere, highlighting the contrast between 'Anywheres' and 'Somewheres'.
In The Road to Somewhere, author David Goodhart explores the growing divisions within British society, particularly in the wake of the Brexit vote. Many Remainers felt as though they had awakened in a foreign land, a sentiment that resonates with numerous British citizens who have grappled with similar feelings over the years. Goodhart takes readers on a journey through the historical and social contexts that have contributed to these divides, emphasizing how the political landscape has shifted dramatically over the past fifty years.
The author identifies two distinct groups: the 'Anywheres' and the 'Somewheres'. The 'Anywheres' are individuals who derive their identity from education and career achievements, often feeling disconnected from local communities. In contrast, the 'Somewheres' find their identity rooted in their geographical and social surroundings, experiencing a profound sense of loss due to mass immigration and rapid societal changes. Goodhart argues that understanding these differences is crucial in navigating the current political climate, which has been exacerbated by events like Brexit and the rise of populism.
The Road to Somewhere serves as a call to action for 'Anywheres' to engage with 'Somewhere' values. By fostering mutual respect and understanding, Goodhart believes society can bridge these divides and address the challenges posed by populism. This thought-provoking work is essential reading for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of modern political identities and the impact of social change.
Goodhart offers an impeccably sensible and decent exposition of how the political elites have failed their societies ... The book makes compelling reading both for voters and those who want to get elected by them -- Max Hastings * The Sunday Times *
[Goodhart] has written a book that is thoughtful, well argued and dangerously moderate. It may even be an incitement to independent thinking * The Times *
[A] provocative take on the UK's new tribal divisions ... And it broadly works ... The Road to Somewhere has the feel of a book whose timing ... is pitch-perfect -- Andrew Marr * New Statesman *
Goodhart's exploration of this underlying divide -- and the question of what might be done -- is not only timely but also offers an accessible, evidence-based and direct account of how these conflicts are reshaping the political world around us -- Matthew Goodwin * Financial Times *
Goodhart has clarity of argument and courage. He has been making these points for a decade and urging the mainstream to engage with them. He does not do fads * Observer *
Whatever other objections Goodhart's new book might provoke, few could call it irrelevant or untimely ... he returns to this most vexed terrain, picking his way through nettles and thorns that might deter thinner-skinned writers -- Jonathan Freedland * The Guardian *
[Goodhart] has written what may turn out to be the most sympathetic and insightful book about Britain's discontented masses -- Toby Young * The Spectator *
Mr Goodhart's book seems likely to inform the debate on what post-Brexit Britain should look like * The Economist *
This meticulously researched book ... enables us to imagine Brexit as a moment that could just prove to be the start of a national renewal * Prospect *
Challenging and illuminating -- Will Hutton
David Goodhart offers the best and most complete explanation I've seen for why things seem to be coming apart in so many countries at the same time -- Jonathan Haidt, author of 'The Righteous Mind'
ISBN: 9780141986975
Dimensions: 198mm x 130mm x 18mm
Weight: 227g
304 pages