Essays
Our contributors explain what they think and why. Each essay is the author's own view.
"Woke" racism and what both extremes have in common
The case for civic nationalism, why it's uncontroversial for most of the country, and how both ends of the spectrum end up with the same logic.
What would make children safer online?
A popular aim doesn't establish that a technical measure works. Online safety needs honest answers about effectiveness, privacy and enforcement.
Who pays the party?
Donations can reflect agreement or create influence. Voters need enough information to examine the relationship, whichever party benefits.
What does a rail settlement buy?
Fair pay, reliable services and manageable fares all matter. The public should know what a deal secures and how it will be funded.
On assisted dying, restraint can be leadership
A leader can leave MPs to their conscience while remaining responsible for the practical consequences of the law.
What should count in the housing queue?
Need and local connection deserve careful rules. Birthplace is a poor substitute for either contribution or belonging.
The things growth doesn't measure
Economic costs matter. They don't settle every argument about what people want from their country.
Sending officials north isn't devolution
Helping a place deliver Whitehall's priorities differs from giving it authority over its own.
Free speech needs more than habit
The history of press licensing helps explain a freedom we inherited. Its legal protection today still needs understanding and defending.
Be suspicious of a promise with a date
A deadline can focus delivery or disguise the absence of a plan. Ask how the work will happen and who is responsible.
The drought we built
A dry spell is weather. The ability to cope also reflects decisions made years before it arrives.
The parties forfeited Clacton
Boycotting a political stunt may avoid giving it legitimacy. It can also leave voters without a serious alternative.