Published
Apr 22, 2020Page count
160 pagesISBN
978-1529205060Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Apr 22, 2020Page count
160 pagesISBN
978-1529205084Imprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Apr 22, 2020Page count
160 pagesISBN
978-1529205084Imprint
Bristol University Press
The Battle of Ideas in the Labour Party
In the media
On our blog: Starmer’s unenviable task: A transformative battle for the Labour Party
'Jeremy Corbyn/Donald Trump. Only their mothers can tell them apart' in Booklaunch
From Attlee to the birth of New Labour, and the advent of Corbynism, this book gives a lively account of the ideological developments and dramas in the Labour Party in recent decades.
Batrouni delves into the totemic battles between hard and soft left, examining the destructive and creative elements of key periods of Labour’s ideological exhaustion and ideational confusion.
Providing powerful insights from interviews with some of the most influential thinkers, advisors and MPs in the party, he goes on to examine the phenomenal emergence of Corbynism, the impact of Brexit and what lies ahead for the party.
“[This book] is well worth reading for anyone interested in Labour’s extensive history and may be of particular use to its new leader, a man who needs to ensure he can deal with ideas successfully and ensure that the Labour Party accepts his.” Left Foot Forward
“Labour party politics have been a rollercoaster over past decades. Batrouni offers an indispensable guide to this journey. Accessibly written and packed with insights and measured analysis, this is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand Labour’s present situation.” Mark Wickham-Jones, University of Bristol
“The battle for the soul of any party is both a battle of ideas and a battle between the factions for whom those ideas are the banners under which they march. This fascinating book weaves history and first-hand interviews together to provide a lively and convincing sense of the competing personalities, politics and principles that have taken Labour on the roller coaster ride it's been on for the last seventy-five years.” Tim Bale, Queen Mary University of London
Dimitri Batrouni is Lecturer in Politics at the University of Bristol.
Introduction
The Battle of Ideas in the Labour Party, 1945– 92
The Rise of New Labour: Electoral Concerns Trump Ideology
Bridging the Divide: Ed Miliband and Ideas
Pre-distribution
Corbynism: The Left’s Resurgence
Corbynism: Brexit and Globalization
