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Why We Get The Wrong Politicians

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Why We Get The Wrong Politicians

By: Isabel Hardman
Narrated by: Isabel Hardman
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About this listen

Politicians are consistently voted the least trusted professional group by the UK public. They've recently become embroiled in scandals concerning sexual harassment and expenses. Every year, they introduce new legislation that doesn't do what it sets out to achieve - often with terrible financial and human costs. But, with some notable exceptions, they are decent, hardworking people doing a hugely difficult and demanding job.

In this searching examination of our political class, award-winning journalist Isabel Hardman tries to square this circle. She lifts the lid on the strange world of Westminster and asks why we end up with representatives with whom we are so unhappy. Filled with forensic analysis and revealing reportage, this landmark and accessible book is a must-listen for anyone who wants to see a future with better government.

©2018 Isabel Hardman (P)2018 Audible, Ltd Civics & Citizenship Elections & Political Process Leadership Management & Leadership Political Science Politics & Government United States World Business Thought-Provoking Inspiring Management

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All stars
Most relevant
Well put together and easy to listen to. Tacitus 'The more corrupt the state the more Laws'

A worthwhile listen

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The way that MPs are chosen results in a less than ideal selection. Many people believe this, but some of the reasons are not immediately obvious.

MPs are not mostly despicable characters, but the way they act in Parliament leads us to see them that way. The way many work for the good of their constituents shows another side of their character. This turns out to be for a range of reasons relating to what they can do in practice, and the extent to which legislation is complex, the power of the executive to push through bills that some people outside the bubble see have obvious flaws, and a whole lot more. I chose to listen to this audiobook now because of the imminent election, but I think it is good information at any time for people who take our democracy seriously.

Interesting insights about our government system

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Always enjoyed listening to Isabel on TV and the insight she gives on politics and the ease when explaining complex political situations. This attracted me to this book and does not disappoint in any way. Particularly interesting is how she describes the hoops and hurdles to overcome to become a MP, subsequent Westminster life and how this impacts on their ability to become effective legislators. The short Brexit chapter towards the end of the book probably deserves an addendum in light of recent developments or indeed another book in itself. One I would look forward to if delivered by Isabel is the same manner as this book.

Enlightening and Interesting

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absolutely loved this book which is book sympathetic and highly critical of our UK politicians and more importantly the legislature. Definitely want to hear more from Isabel and it would behove more members of the public to fully understand the issues outlined here.

what's wrong with parliament

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Well thought out and argued. I did find myself recoiling a bit at times when I felt the defense of politicians biased towards rationalising their ineptitude than calling it out. A good read, on the one hand it is healthy to take the time and appreciate politicians are people, and we should remember that. On the other hand I feel that a large gap in the analysis is personal responsibility and a sense of civic duty seem to be quaint anachronisms that don't exist. Indeed they probably don't, and there lies the rub. On that score as much as we lament the woeful quality of politics, society has to take a long hard look in the mirror and take their share of responsibility, we get the politicians we deserve and worse... The ones we want!

On the Pulse

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