Everyone is entitled to their opinion [1]

This principle excuses people from thinking, which leads to bad government, bad decisions, and ruined lives. Unsupported opinions and beliefs are accepted by the majority when they are won-over by a good orator, or by someone who has previously gained their respect. Every time a politician (professional or amateur) expresses a view, someone should say …

Recession [1]

Who should apologise for the economic mess? Democracy is not just a right, it is also a responsibility; your right to vote entails your responsibility to understand what you are voting for. The voters who have elected profligate governments owe an apology to this generation’s children and grandchildren for the debt and diminished opportunity that …

House of Lords reform [1]

Politics is perhaps the only profession for which no preparation is thought necessary. Robert Louis Stevenson Democracy is necessary for a well-functioning society, but it is not sufficient. Would you elect your surgeon or a structural engineer from a bunch of untrained, inexperienced candidates? The second chamber could (and often does) provide what the first …