Internationally recognised art and literary critic, writer and cultural producer. Published in ELLE, Glamour, Esquire and Cosmopolitan; member of the Union of Writers.
On 15 January 2024, I had the privilege of attending a lecture by Michael Sandel, a distinguished professor of political philosophy at Harvard University who has won international acclaim for his work on justice, democracy, ethics and markets. This event, held at the Cambridge Union, explored the key themes of his latest book, The Tyranny of Merit: What’s Become of the Common Good? Attending this lecture was an opportunity for me to consider new approaches to social problems.
Sandel’s talk at the Cambridge Union got me thinking about the need to revive the concept of the common good in political discourse. He argued that the focus on individual success has eroded the sense of community and mutual responsibility. By shifting the emphasis from individual achievement to collective well-being, Sandel believes that societies can cultivate a more inclusive and cohesive social fabric. This involves reassessing policies and institutions to ensure that they promote not only economic efficiency but also social equity and solidarity.
The event struck a particular chord with its theme of ‘THB Party Politics is Dead’. The last decade has been a whirlwind of political upheaval in the UK, leading many to question the effectiveness of traditional party politics.
Sandel’s insights into the rise of activist groups such as Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion were particularly illuminating. These movements have tapped into public frustration with the slow pace of political change, particularly on pressing issues such as climate change. Their success highlights a shift towards more direct and issue-based forms of political engagement.
The debate that followed focused on whether political parties are still the most effective means of organising political engagement. While some argued for their essential role in providing structure and coherence, others pointed to their growing disconnection from the electorate. The rise of independent candidates and non-traditional political movements suggests a growing disenchantment with party politics.
Sandel’s proposal for a reimagining of political engagement that transcends the limitations of party politics was both inspiring and thought-provoking. He called for a more participatory democracy, where citizens are actively involved in decision-making through town hall meetings and deliberative forums.
He also emphasised the crucial role of education in cultivating an engaged and ethically aware citizenry. By promoting civic education and moral reasoning, we empower individuals to critically evaluate political issues and contribute meaningfully to public life.
Sandel’s lecture left me with a renewed sense of hope for the future of democracy and left an indelible mark on my thinkingб highlighting the tensions between meritocracy and the common good, particularly in the context of evolving political landscapes. His message resonated deeply, urging us to prioritise the common good over individual success. This vision offers hope for a more just and inclusive society.
