In this compelling episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we sit down with Professor Tim Wilson - academic, filmmaker, YouTuber, and former politician - in London to explore the crisis facing modern democracy and what we can do about it.
Professor Wilson brings a unique perspective, having taught in authoritarian countries including Russia, where he met Vladimir Putin in 2016 ("he emanates evil"), and having infiltrated UKIP from within before resigning over racism. Now through his daily YouTube channel, he offers uncompromising analysis that earns him criticism from both left and right - which he sees as proof he's doing something right.
Key topics we explore:
- Why our education system is failing democracy by using 19th-century methods to teach 21st-century citizens
- How scripted politics and theatrical PMQs are undermining public trust
- The real meaning of Brexit as a protest vote rather than a vision for the future
- Why Nigel Farage is "the best politician in the UK" despite Wilson detesting his views
- How technology could revolutionize education and make students resistant to propaganda
- The sliding scale of liberty and why Britain is becoming more authoritarian than we realize
Wilson argues that democracy isn't just about voting - it's about the Socratic method of debating your way to truth. But our political class has forgotten this, turning politics into theatre while teachers spend 70% of their time on bureaucracy instead of inspiring students.
From his chilling encounter with Putin to his thoughts on toxic masculinity, drill music, and why children need positive role models rather than just being told what not to do, this wide-ranging conversation challenges conventional wisdom about politics, education, and resistance.
Perfect for listeners interested in: UK politics, education reform, media literacy, authoritarianism, Russia, Brexit, and practical solutions for strengthening democracy.
"The right to say 'F** you' to power - that's what democracy means to me."*
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