Not sexist to say there are more exceptional men than women
I did a speech last night listing my 12 most exceptional people around today. Only two women among them. Sexist, said some. Not so, say I.
Read MoreAuthor: Alastair Campbell
From Saint Vince to Mr Bean – A Journey
As Steve Richards reminded us on his rather depressing Radio 4 analysis of the Brown Premiership yesterday, a memorable jibe from Vince Cable played quite a part in the political and media mood that saw the shift from from hero...
Read MoreStill no clearer re Dave’s Big Society
I thought it was a bit off of David Cameron to try to purloin the Pope’s UK visit (once it was clearly going to be deemed a success) in support of his ‘Big Society’ plan. But triumphant though the Papal visit...
Read MoreSpecial relationship not very special film
‘The Special Relationship’ goes out tonight, and in the build-up publicity, the promoters, as with The Deal and The Queen, have been keen to talk up how much research they did, and therefore how historically accurate...
Read MoreNothing to say and so little time not to say it
Not had time to watch any news or read any papers (except over shoulders of fellow tube travellers) so beyond knowing that the Pope is in town after a successful Scottish leg of his UK tour, that Boris looked smarter than usual...
Read MoreMy Latest Book
But What Can I Do?
Why politics has gone so wrong, and how you can help fix it
by
Alastair Campbell
"Your country needs you. Your world needs you. Your time is now."
Our politics is a mess. We have leaders who can't or shouldn't be allowed to lead. We endure governments that lie, and seek to undermine our democratic values. And we are confronted with policies that serve the interests of the privileged few. It's no surprise that so many of us feel frustrated, let down and drawn to ask, 'But what can I do?' That question is the inspiration behind this book. It's a question regularly posed to Alastair Campbell, not least in reaction to The Rest is Politics, the chart-topping podcast he presents with former Tory Cabinet minister Rory Stewart. His answer, typically, is forthright and impassioned. We cannot afford to stand on the sidelines. If we think things need to change, then we need to change them, and that means getting involved. But What Can I Do? provides each of us with the motivation and the tools to make a difference. Opening with an acute analysis of our polarised world and the populists and extremists who have shaped it, it goes on to show how we help transform it. It explains how we can develop our skills of advocacy and persuasion. It draws on Alastair’s long experience, as well as on role models and lessons from history, to offer practical tips on starting and leading a campaign. It offers advice on developing confidence and coping with criticism and setbacks. And it sets out the practical steps by which we can become political players ourselves. Part call to arms, part practical handbook, But What Can I Do? will prove required reading for anyone who wants to help change things for the better.