This week, Ellen is joined by Mark Wilding, investigative journalist at Liberty Investigates, who discusses how artificial intelligence is being used to tackle crime in the UK. He shares the startling story of a young man arrested for a crime he didn’t commit, and discusses evidence of racial bias in the technology.

Mark shares his disturbing findings and explains why he is concerned about ordinary citizens being subjected to repeated checks. Could it reverse the presumption of innocence until proven guilty?

To read Mark’s piece, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/ideas/technology/72853/rise-facial-recognition-policing

And to read his work on Palantir, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/politics/democracy/government/71511/how-palantir-infiltrated-the-state

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This week Philip and Ellen are joined by Kim Darroch, former national security adviser and UK ambassador to the United States. He analyses the US-Israel war with Iran, the reactions of foreign governments and why Europe has chosen not to respond to Trump’s calls for support.

As former diplomat, he offers an insight into Trump’s working habits and the minds informally influencing the president’s key decisions—including friendly journalists and television hosts who, he says, are “more influential” than number 10 staffers. He also describes Trump’s secretary of war, Pete Hegseth, as “ludicrous”.

Plus, Kim breaks down three potential outcomes for how the conflict might end. And, if he was national security adviser today, would he have encouraged Starmer to go to war?

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Sven discusses the evolution of capitalism, from its development by Arab, African and Chinese traders, to its place in the modern western nation states of today. He argues that the economic system that rules our lives is a man-made one, which can be shaped and reshaped depending on political and economic will.

The pair also discuss the prospects for working people in an era in which AI threatens to make many redundant, and whether rising authoritarianism in wealthy democracies like the US is linked to its economic system.

And they explore the achievements and injustices of modern capitalism—its complicated history of growth and poverty reduction, alongside coercion and violence.

To read Tom’s review of ‘Capitalism: A Global History’, click here

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Peter Kellner, former director of polling company YouGov, joins Ellen and Alona on the podcast to discuss how Labour and its competition are faring. After coming second in Gorton and Denton, Reform may have actually peaked, Peter argues.

Plus, Kellner has met every Labour leader since Harold Wilson, and shares both his favourite anecdotes and the lessons he thinks the party’s next leader needs to know.

For more political coverage from Prospect visit our website.

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Renad Mansour, a senior research fellow in the Middle East and North Africa Programme at the Chatham House thinktank, joins Ellen and Alona to make sense of the latest from Iran.

As US-Israeli strikes continue, Mansour explains that Washington might not have control over the conflict’s end and Iran is prepared for the long haul. 

He also explains how the Iranian regime has survived multiple “decapitation” attempts, and what the choice of new Supreme Leader indicates about the future.

To read more coverage of the conflict, visit prospectmagazine.co.uk

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From John D Rockefeller to Jeff Bezos, David explores the parallels between the “robber barons” of the late 19th century and today’s tech titans. He argues that the US is experiencing a second Gilded Age, in which the elite enjoy lavish lifestyles—as well as unchecked power and influence.

David also discusses Jeff Bezos’s wedding, the Amazon-produced Melania film, and Donald Trump’s relationship with tech CEOs.

In a post-Epstein era, are there means to check this power? And what happens if we can’t?

To read David Aaronovitch’s cover essay of the latest magazine, click here.

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With the polls showing a three-way-race between the Greens, Labour and Reform, the area has become a microcosm for wider political trends, with the position of the establishment parties more uncertain than ever.

Tom shares the mood in the constituency and what voters are saying on the ground. Ben, Alona and Tom also discuss the possible outcomes, and why many voters have lost faith in the traditional parties.

They also analyse the tactical decision to not have Zack Polanski run in the seat, and why losing here could speed up Starmer’s departure. What happens if the Labour stronghold tips?

To read Tom’s piece ‘In Gorton and Denton, Labour the Greens blame each other’, click here. 

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He talks about the mood in Ukraine as the civilian casualty rate surges—as well as the difficult process of seeking justice: from collecting testimonies from Russian prisoners of war, to working with the media.

And as the third round of Ukraine-Russia peace talks take place in Geneva, brokered by the United States, what are Ukrainians hoping for? What does Europe need to do? And will anything change?

To read more “What makes a traitor?”, Jen Stout’s piece on The Reckoning Project in Ukraine, click here.

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With Peter Mandelson currently under investigation by the Metropolitan Police, Starmer’s premiership came close to collapse. He appears to have clung on for now—but how long can he survive as prime minister? And why, in his moment of peril, did no other contenders for PM come to the fore?

Philip discusses what surprised him about Wes Streeting’s WhatsApp messages to Mandelson, and whether the departure of Morgan McSweeney from 10 Downing Street will have any impact on the government’s direction. He also analyses the implications of Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar’s call for Starmer to resign. Will it harm his chances in the upcoming Holyrood elections?

Plus, beyond Mandelson, they explore whether political culture is now too close to money—and if politicians, in general, are too vulnerable to the wealthy.

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Peter discusses the ways powerful figures protect themselves, and the latest political fallout in Britain—from renewed scrutiny of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to Peter Mandelson’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.

He discusses what shocked him despite his experience investigating corruption, how this story goes to the heart of the British constitution, and why the truth seems stranger than fiction.

Peter also explains what this flood of documents means for journalism and truth, as unvetted claims spread rapidly online. And the three discuss the stakes for democracy—and what needs to change. Could this moment finally lead to justice for survivors of abuse? And what else is happening that we don’t know about?

This episode contains discussions of exploitation and abuse.

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Will giving a greater say to local communities through devolution increase the legitimacy of infrastructure and housing plans and accelerate their delivery? Or does it add complexity and aid the ‘blockers’ not the builders? This podcast explores the issues, explains how to address the risks and charts an optimistic way forward.

Picking up themes from a roundtable on this topic held by Prospect and sponsored by Mott MacDonald at the 2025 Labour party conference, Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, along with industry experts from United Utilities, SSE and Mott MacDonald, draw on their vast experience to discuss how to harness local knowledge to make sure devolution supports the creation of the 21st century infrastructure and housing that the UK needs.

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He traces the origins of the party system, the decline of the old tribal loyalties and the rise of Nigel Farage and Reform. How different will politics look in this new world?Plus, inspired by a new section in the magazine, Philip discusses his own cultural “Hinterland”—from his first ever gig to the most overrated artist—and discusses his vision for the new magazine.

To read Philip’s cover essay ‘For Labour and the Conservatives, the party is over’, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk or pick up a copy of our new issue, on shelves today.

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Plus, if the regime falls, what would Iran’s future look like? Ellen and Alona explore four possible outcomes and talk about the apparent trend of impunity on an international scale.

To read more from our website, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk

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How different was this from the US’s history of coups and previous military interventions in South America, from Guatemala to Panama? Isabel discusses the region’s history and future, as well as the geopolitical ramifications of US threats to annex Greenland.

Why is Greenland so important to the administration? And, with the UK in a vulnerable economic and strategic position, how should it respond to the actions of its closest ally?

To read Isabel’s writing for Prospect, click here.

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Ed Miliband, secretary of state for energy security and net zero, and Bill McKibben, an environmentalist and author, joined Wolfgang Blau, Prospect editorial board member and cofounder of the Oxford Climate Journalism Network, to discuss political strategies, positive tipping points and the fight that’s still to come.

To read an edited transcript of this conversation, which featured on the cover of Prospect’s winter double issue, click here.

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Philosopher Slavoj Zizek and broadcaster Mehdi Hasan talk about the merits of pessimism. Human rights lawyer Philippe Sands discusses justice in the age of international impunity, while authoritarianism expert Ruth Ben-Ghiat considers the situation in the US.

Poet and writer Robert Macfarlane reflects on preserving nature in a time of destruction. Cory Doctorow and Laura Bates weigh in on transformations in technology and artificial intelligence. Yassmin Abdel-Magied discusses the humanitarianism crisis in Sudan, while Nicola Kelly explores the untold immigration story.

Plus, veteran journalist and outgoing Prospect editor Alan Rusbridger joins the podcast to reflect on his journey, his mistakes, and how he feels about the future—including the contentious thing that unexpectedly makes him feel hopeful.

You can revisit all our episodes from the past year here.

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Kate Maltby, Lucy Scholes and Laura Barton encounter the Prospect wheel of fortune and share their recommendations, as well as the cultural moments that defined the rest of the year.

Which theatre performance saw audience members fainting in droves? Which cosy reads should you try this Christmas? And is Sydney Sweeney the Republican Taylor Swift? Listen to find out.

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Ellen and Alona are joined by two experts on the subject: journalist and campaigner Terri White and Ruth Patrick, professor in social and public policy at the University of Glasgow. They bust the myths and misconceptions around the policy, and analyse the negative response from the British media on its lifting. How much will it really cost the country?

Terri and Ruth explore the policy’s real-life effects on families across the UK and how public discourse has been polluted with misogyny and Islamophobia. They also discuss the ways that communities can come together to implement local solutions—and examine the limit’s most controversial clause.

Plus, Ellen and Alona weigh up a Christmassy banger or dud.

To read Ruth’s writing on the two-child limit, click here.

And to read Terri's piece from the archive ‘Where is your outrage over the two child limit?’, click here.

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As constraints that once kept platforms in check have broken down, Cory shares how tech giants polluted the digital landscape, why AI-generated “slop” has sped it up, and why we should all care. What’s in it for tech CEOs? What is this is doing to us as humans? And what would real de-enshittification look like?

Cory discusses how to grab people’s attention, and how to fight back against tech giants.

Plus, Ellen and Alona talk digital detoxes: “banger” or “dud”?

Cory’s book ‘Enshittification: Why Everything Suddenly Got Worse and What To Do About It’ is published by Verso

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In the latest issue of Prospect, Mark traces how Palantir seized a moment of opportunity in the Covid-19 pandemic to get its “foot in the door” and multimillion-pound government contracts, culminating in its takeover of the Federated Data Platform—the new data backbone of the NHS. But what happens when a private tech corporation becomes essential national infrastructure?

Mark also explains why even Palantir didn’t want to be associated with Labour’s plans for digital ID. 

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss “Christmas creep”: banger or dud?

To read Mark’s investigation ‘How Palantir infiltrated the state’, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/politics/democracy/government/71511/how-palantir-infiltrated-the-state

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From Putin’s war in Ukraine to China’s expanding arsenal and new nuclear “threshold” states, Serhii discusses whether governments still hold to the idea of mutually assured destruction. He explains the role of fear in the origins of the nuclear bomb—and the importance of anti-nuclear civic action.

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss “scream clubs”: banger or dud?

‘The Nuclear Age: An Epic Race for Arms, Power, and Survival’ is available now. To read Prospect’s review, click here.

You can listen to Serhii’s previous appearance on the Prospect Podcast here.

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This week, Prospect’s Ben Clark speaks to Yanis Varoufakis, economist and Greece’s former finance minister, whose most recent book is Raise Your Soul: A Personal History of Resistance.

Yanis reflects on writing a feminist history as a man, what his family’s encounters with Nazism taught him, and whether today’s left can still speak to young men drifting toward the far right.He also weighs in on Ukraine, as well as Zohran Mamdani’s performance in the New York mayoral race, despite the decline of the Democrats.

Plus, Yanis reflects on optimism, resistance and the women who taught him both.

Stay tuned for Ben’s profile of Yanis, which will be published at prospectmagazine.co.uk

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Our expert guests share their perspectives on the changing dynamics of foreign aid and explore how and why the international development sector is changing.

They discuss the impact of cuts in budgets from the UK, USA and elsewhere, the shift towards localisation and how the UK and other countries can maintain their influence and drive change in the global development sector.

ASI is a social impact business that works with governments, international organisations, companies and civil society to design and deliver aid programmes that address the big challenges facing the world.

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In this week’s spooky special, Ellen and Alona are joined by historian and “monster consultant” Surekha Davies, who argues that humans have always created monsters to understand the world—and ourselves.

In her new book Humans: A Monstrous History, she explores a history of monsters, as well as the weird and horrifying monsters we’ve created in modern day life, including through Silicon Valley’s visions for artificial intelligence. Is technology pushing flesh-and-blood humans to the margins?

The three also discuss “monsterification” in political rhetoric as a way to frame the Other, including discourse about asylum seekers.

Plus, Ellen and Alona talk celebrity authors: banger or dud?

Surekha’s book ‘Humans: A Monstrous History’ is available now.

Halloween Werewolf Intro by miksmusic.

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As the Democratic party faces its lowest favourability ratings on record, one man wants to completely change its brand. This week, Prospect’s Ben Clark speaks to Saikat Chakrabarti, progressive political adviser and former chief of staff to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who is now running for Congress himself.

Saikat discusses running against Democratic powerbroker Nancy Pelosi, reveals his frustration with conventional Washington politicking, and shares what he thinks the Democrats are doing wrong. He also talks about how his Silicon Valley career radicalised him, “opportunist” tech billionaires, and meeting Peter Thiel.

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss Celebrity Traitors: “banger” or “dud”?

To read Ben’s piece “Saikat Chakrabarti is coming for the Democratic establishment”, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/views/people/71150/saikat-chakrabarti-is-coming-for-the-democratic-establishment

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He also discusses how a national conversation about asylum policy has “metastasised” into criticism of legal migrants—and now a suspicion that white British citizens are losing out to non-white Brits. Was this an inevitable consequence of an existing trend in the Conservative party, or not? How should the Labour government respond? And where does this end?

Plus, Imaan and Alona talk sibling rivalries and whether AI book summaries are a “banger” or a “dud”.

To read Ben’s column “Who’s ‘white British’? Who cares?”, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/politics/71217/whos-white-british-who-cares

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Two years after the Hamas-led attack in southern Israel, Israel’s retaliation has killed one in 33 Gazans. Omer argues that the war on Gaza is genocidal—and that many Israelis are in denial about what their government is doing.

On the podcast, Omer explains how this denial operates and its historical parallels. He argues that denialism has roots in his country’s origin story, as the onslaught becomes a “second Nakba”.

And he reflects on his personal journey, as an Israeli who grew up in the early days of the state.

To read Omer’s essay “A State of Denial”, the cover of Prospect’s latest issue, out today, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk.

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This week, Ellen and Alona dial in from the party conference in Liverpool, where they’re joined by Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy, and deputy leadership candidate Lucy Powell.

Powell explains why she’s running, and the importance of wrestling back the political narrative from Reform, while Creasy criticises the party’s current lack of internal dialogue and emphasises the need for cultural change.

How can the party reconnect with voters? And, despite all the deputy leadership candidates being women, why has Labour never had a female leader?

To read more of our coverage of the Labour party conference, click here.

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Cass is the founder and director of the Program on Behavioral Economics and Public Policy at Harvard, and author of Manipulation: What It Is, Why It’s Bad, What to Do about It. He explores the place of manipulation in a capitalist system, and whether technology is making manipulation a bigger problem than ever before. But can we protect ourselves from it?

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss the return of Bake Off: “banger” or “dud”?

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Jo Glanville is the editor of Looking for an Enemy: Eight Essays on Antisemitism, while Dave Rich is head of policy at the Community Security Trust, whose stated mission is to work for the physical protection of British Jews. They both join Prospect’s Alan Rusbridger and Alona Ferber to discuss what people misunderstand about anti-Jewish prejudice, and how it relates to Israel.

To read an edited excerpt of this interview, click here. 

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From Zohran Mamdani to Zack Polanski, left populists are attracting votes and attention. Should Keir Starmer follow their lead?

On the podcast, Ben explains what makes a politician “populist”, the policies that might work for Labour, and why populist communication styles are more effective than Labour’s current messaging. He also unpacks whether Starmer could pull off a left-populist turn—or who in the party might be a better fit.

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss saunas: banger or dud?

You can read Ben’s essay ‘Labour’s populist dilemma’ here.

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This week, Ellen and Imaan are joined by Conor Gearty, a barrister and professor of human rights law at LSE, who explains how his views on the future of protest have changed. 

As hundreds have been arrested for supporting the recently proscribed group Palestine Action, Conor discusses his reaction to the ban. He criticises the Labour government’s stance on protest, which he says panders to a “middle covert authoritarianism”.

Conor also weighs in on what’s at stake if Britain leaves the ECHR, and how to fortify democracy. Are protests from the political left and right treated differently? And how should Labour respond to Reform’s rhetoric on human rights?

Plus, Ellen and Imaan discuss the genre of “cosy crime”: banger or dud? 

To read Conor’s writing for Prospect (including the story of his shattered pelvis), click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/author/1473/conor-gearty

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Sex Worker Tilly Lawless reflects on the fragmentation of the sex industry in the age of OnlyFans, and Alice Goodman explores memory, homeland, and the meaning of Passover.

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In this week’s Prospect Podcast, former Labour Home Secretary David Blunkett debates Rebecca Vincent, from the civil liberties group Big Brother Watch. 

Blunkett oversaw the introduction of identity cards under New Labour—before they were scrapped by the Tory-Lib Dem coalition—and thinks they could have a place. Rebecca Vincent is concerned about the risks of intolerable state surveillance —particularly if the cards were mandatory.

Listen in—and to let us know who you think is right, email webdesk@prospect-magazine.co.uk. 

For this week’s “banger or dud”—the last before a short summer break—Ellen and Alona discuss the 99 Flake.

To read an edited version of this conversation, visit Prospect’s website. 

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Ellen and Alona are joined by journalist and writer Oliver Bullough, whose books include Moneyland: Why Thieves And Crooks Now Rule The World And How To Take It Back.

He explains how water companies, sold off under Thatcher with promises of efficiency and investment, instead loaded themselves with debt, rewarded shareholders, and presided over a national sewage crisis.

Oliver, who has investigated financial corruption and power, explains why he is also interested in covering English and Welsh rivers. Plus, as the government plans to abolish Ofwat, why did the water regulator fail? Will anything change for the better?

And for this week’s “banger or dud”, Ellen and Alona discuss the Lionesses.

To read Oliver’s piece ‘How our water went to shit’, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk 

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Stewart’s research uncovers yoga’s strange story: from its reinvention in the early 20th century by a Californian escapologist, to its appropriation by occultists, grifters and even Nazis. Today, as the wellness industry booms online, conspiracy theorists and alt-right influencers have seized on yoga myths to push anti-science and anti-democratic ideas.

Stewart explains how yoga became a recruiting ground for reactionary politics, why abuse has been so widespread in yoga schools, and what the rise of figures like RFK Jr says about the state of health, power and paranoia in the west. He also discusses figures like Savitri Devi—who believed that Hitler was an avatar of a Hindu god—and the overlap between western mythmaking and Hindu nationalism in Modi’s India.

Plus, Imaan and Alona discuss Reddit: “banger” or “dud”?

Stewart’s book Fascist Yoga: Grifters, Occultists, White Supremacists, and the New Order In Wellness’ is available now

And to read ‘How Hindutva influences the wellness to alt-right pipeline’ from our website, head to https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/world/69048/the-wellness-to-alt-right-pipeline

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This week, writer and activist Laura Bates joins Ellen and Alona to discuss her latest book The New Age of Sexism.

Best known for founding the Everyday Sexism project in 2012, Laura has spent more than a decade documenting the realities of gender-based discrimination. In her new book, she turns her attention to the digital world—where artificial intelligence is giving rise to disturbing new forms of misogyny. 

Laura explains how technologies like deepfakes and AI chatbots are being weaponised against women, what her experiences of raising awareness in schools have taught her about how parents and teachers can better protect children, and why governments and tech companies are failing to act. 

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss this week’s “banger” or “dud”.

This episode contains material that some listeners may find upsetting.

‘The New Age of Sexism: How the AI Revolution is Reinventing Misogyny’ is out now.

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This week on the Prospect Podcast, Ellen and Alona are joined by political theorist and director of the UCL policy lab Marc Stears, who was one of the founding members of Blue Labour 15 years ago but is now critical of its turn towards the populist right.

Marc explains how and why he believes its ideology has shifted and discusses Glasman’s connections to Maga: after meeting JD Vance and appearing on Steve Bannon’s podcast, why does a Labour peer find common ground with Trumpist Americans? Could Reform ever be a partner for Labour?

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss meal deals: “banger” or “dud”?

To read Marc’s essay, ‘What’s wrong with the new Blue Labour?’, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk/politics/70309/whats-wrong-with-the-new-blue-labour

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This week, Ellen and Alona are joined by Faiz Siddiqui, technology reporter at the Washington Post and author of Hubris Maximus: The Shattering of Elon Musk. He has closely followed Musk’s rapid rise and fall, from visionary entrepreneur to Washington exile, mired in political controversy, lawsuits and that public split with the US president.

Faiz charts Musk’s transformation from liberal tech CEO to right-wing culture warrior. But how much influence does he continue to have over the far right in the United States and Europe? Has Doge fundamentally reshaped American government? Is Elon Musk a genius? And what happened when Faiz saw Musk in court?

Plus, inspired by Jeff Bezos’s wedding, Ellen and Alona discuss holidaying in Venice: “banger” or “dud”?

Faiz’s book Hubris Maximus: The Shattering of Elon Musk is out now.

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This week, Ellen and Alona are joined by journalist James Bloodworth to discuss his new book Lost Boys: A personal journey through the manosphere.

From attending a pick-up artist bootcamp himself in 2006, to reporting on the rise of red pill and incel ideologies, James traces how online misogyny has evolved—and why so many young men are drawn into it. He explores the role of social media in fuelling radicalisation and answers: is this a crisis of masculinity, or something more complicated? And what would he say to his 23-year-old self now?

Plus, after a listener’s suggestion, Ellen and Alona discuss splitting the bill: “banger” or “dud”?

To send us your suggestions for “banger or dud”, email webdesk@prospect-magazine.co.uk

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This week, Arash Azizi joins Alona to unpack the war now underway. Arash is the author of The Shadow Commander: Soleimani, the U.S., and Iran's Global Ambitions (2020) and What Iranians Want (2024).

Arash explains why Netanyahu might have chosen to attack now and how Iran is responding both militarily and politically. He and Alona discuss how the media is covering the war inside both countries—and how the world, from the US to China, has reacted.

Plus: what does this mean for the Middle East? And is there any reason for hope?

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This week, Prospect tech columnist Ethan Zuckerman joins Ellen and Alona to talk about artificial intelligence, social media and the state of the online world. Ethan, who teaches at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, shares how AI has shaped his students—and how his teaching has had to adapt.

Ethan discusses the dystopian visions of billionaire tech bros. Will AI achieve superintelligence? Is it transforming our world for the worse? But he also explains how to seek out better, more wholesome corners of the internet, and why his students give him hope.

To read Ethan’s column, head to our website at prospectmagazine.co.uk

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In a short, bonus episode, Ellen and Alona speak with Jill Abramson, former executive editor of the New York Times, about the long predicted clash.

Jill explains the implications for US space policy, and reviews how the US media has covered Musk since he first campaigned alongside Trump last October. 

For more on US politics from Prospect, visit our website.

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This week, Ellen and Alona are joined by Devi Sridhar, professor of global public health at Edinburgh University and personal trainer, whose new book, How Not to Die (Too Soon), is a guide to living longer and better, and challenges everything we think we know about personal health.

Devi argues that air quality, access to healthcare, and innovations in public policy matter more than supplements or step counts. She also discusses why life expectancy is falling, and reacts to the rise of anti-science voices like Robert F Kennedy Jr.

Five years after the pandemic upended our lives, Devi reflects on what we have failed to learn from that public health crisis—and why universal health coverage, tackling inequality, and climate resilience must be at the heart of how we rethink health.

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss wellness influencers: “banger” or “dud”?

‘How Not to Die (Too Soon): The Lies We’ve Been Sold and the Policies That Can Save Us’ is available now

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Carys discusses whether Starmer’s rightward shift will pay off. She analyses why the last general election was a “breakaway election” away from the major parties—with the rise of progressive independents, Greens and Liberal Democrat MPs—and whether this is just a blip, or represents a lasting shift away from Labour.

Plus, is the Labour party “structurally racist”? How is the war on Gaza reshaping the UK’s political landscape? And what will the 2029 election look like?

You can read Carys’s piece ‘Labour is ignoring the threat from its left’ at prospectmagazine.co.uk

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On the podcast, she unpacks Labour’s controversial new immigration white paper and why the party is embracing tough rhetoric. She exposes the relationship between the Home Office and client journalists, and shares some shocking findings from her reporting. Will third-country “return hubs”—similar to the Conservatives’ Rwanda scheme—actually happen under Starmer? And what would that mean for the people affected?

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss whether AI-generated writing is a “banger” or a “dud”.

Nicola’s book Anywhere But Here: How Britain’s Broken Asylum System Fails Us All is out now. She also writes on Substack at ‘Not Another Snowflake’. To read more, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk, or watch our best interviews on YouTube (@prospect_magazine).

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The rise of the populist right is often framed as a backlash against neoliberalism—a revolt by those “left behind” by globalisation. But in his new book Hayek’s Bastards, Quinn argues the opposite: that movements like Maga are not a reaction to neoliberalism, but its latest iteration.

Tracing the intellectual lineage of today’s far right, he characterises it as a “new fusionism” between three ideological pillars: racialised beliefs in genetically hardwired human nature, hard money, and hard borders.

Quinn answers: who are “Hayek’s bastards”? Are the right better at engaging with ideas than the left? And what does Trump really believe?

Hayek’s Bastards: The Neoliberal Roots of the Populist Right is available here.

Prospect podcasts are also available on our YouTube channel (@prospect_magazine)

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Robert discusses his travels to Ecuador, India and the Canadian wilderness: places that rivers are being defended from threat, and where our relationship with the natural world is being reimagined. He talks about writing a song with a cloud forest (and the legal battle to have it recognised as a co-writer) and the power of storytelling. He discusses challenges, policy and progress in the UK: is there hope for our rivers? And how do we save them?

Plus, stay until the end to listen to “The Song of the Cedars” by Robert Macfarlane, Cosmo Sheldrake, Giuliana Furci and César Rodríguez-Garavito, in collaboration with the Los Cedros Cloud Forest.

Robert’s book ‘Is a River Alive’ (2025) is published by Penguin

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Ruth analyses the Trump administration’s rapid shift towards authoritarianism. She talks about Trump’s personality cult, how strongmen portray machismo and the potential for a female strongman figure. She also discusses how autocrats use corruption, violence and propaganda to stay in power, and how ICE roundups echo the past, resembling a “secret police force”.

Ruth answers: can the Democrats can learn anything from Trump? What’s the best way to challenge an illiberal president? And how does this end?

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss their bookshelves for this week's “banger or dud”.

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This week, Ellen and Alona are joined by Prospect’s contributing editor Philip Collins who analyses Reform UK’s strategy for the local elections taking place in parts of England next week. With Labour, the Tories and Reform neck-and-neck in the polls, will these be the most consequential local elections in decades? What will the biggest story be?

As a former No. 10 speechwriter, Phil also analyses the current cabinet’s different communication styles and whether there is anything Labour can learn from Reform—or do they need to set themselves apart? Phil discusses the right-wing alliances on the horizon and shares a sneak peek into his reporting for the next issue of Prospect into the populist right’s plans.

Plus, after the long weekend, Ellen and Alona discuss a four-day working week: ‘banger’ or ‘dud’?

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Slavoj discusses fatherhood and Netflix’s Adolescence, as awareness grows around young male radicalisation via the “manosphere”. He also talks about feminism and his criticisms of #MeToo.

Plus, with the release of his latest book, in which he argues that the left has hit its “zero point”, is there any hope for its recovery? He draws a through line from the left-wingers of 1968 to the politics and personality of Elon Musk—and gives his analysis on Starmer’s Labour as a "moderate, centre-right party" wrestling with the populist right. Slavoj suggests: does the left need a Trump figure?

Slavoj’s latest book, Zero Point, is out now (Bloomsbury, £9.99 paperback)

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Philippe reflects on the process of writing his most recent book 38 Londres Street, and the relationship between storytelling and the law. He also discusses representing Palestine at the ICJ and his thoughts on the utility of genocide as a legal term. And with the arrests and deportations in the US, Philippe discusses the state of human rights under Trump, and what might be next for the country.

Philippe’s book ‘38 Londres Street: On Impunity, Pinochet in England and a Nazi in Patagonia’ is out now.

To read more on this topic from our website, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk/ideas/law/international-law

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Our newsfeeds are dominated by towering figures like Trump and Elon Musk—but does the “great man” theory still hold? Is history really made by millions of ordinary people? How will historians look back at this moment?

And with UK universities under pressure, he discusses why the humanities are still vital.

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss whether the clocks going forward is a “banger” or a “dud”.

‘A Journey through Time’ with David Olusoga and Sarah Churchwell can be streamed here.

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This week, Charlotte joins the Prospect podcast to share her findings. How long have we known asbestos is deadly? How have companies actively covered up the dangers? And why is asbestos still present in our homes, workplaces and schools, today? Charlotte discusses the latest push for justice—and whether those responsible will ever be held to account.

Plus, Ellen and Alona weigh up school phone bans: “banger” or “dud”?

To read Charlotte’s piece ‘Asbestos: a corporate coverup, a public health catastrophe’, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk.

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Prospect’s Isabel Hilton sits down with the playwrights and former UK negotiator Peter Unwin to discuss the real-life drama behind the diplomacy, whether multilateralism still works, and what Kyoto’s legacy means for today’s climate crisis.

Plus, Ellen and Alona mull over whether musicals are a “banger” or a “dud”.Kyoto is playing at London’s Soho Place Theatre until 3rd May 2025.

To read Isabel’s writing on geopolitics and climate, head to prospectmagazine.co.uk.

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Prospect’s contributing editor Isabel Hilton joins this week’s podcast to untangle increasingly urgent questions of European defence and security. From Trump cutting intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, to Russian espionage in the UK, Isabel explores the vulnerabilities Europe faces and what might come next.

Can European nations defend themselves without US support? Is a “coalition of the willing” or a European army a realistic solution? And what opportunities does America's erratic politics create for China?

Plus, Ellen and Alona weigh in on International Women’s Day: “banger” or “dud”?

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By some surveys, half of Brits don’t believe that racism exists. Keon West, social psychologist and visiting professor at LSE, joins the podcast to discuss this phenomenon.

Keon explains what data can tell us, and delves into the surprising ways that the UK compares to the US. He unpacks the ingenious studies that reveal how racism really works, and why he thinks the Sewell report commissioned by Boris Johnson was “deeply flawed”.

He also talks about conducting experiments in a time of “alternative facts”, why we need to trust the science, instead of just relying on scientists, and how those on the left and right can improve discussions about racism.

Plus, after Zelensky’s “dressing down” at the White House, Ellen and Alona talk dress codes: banger or dud?

Keon’s book ‘The Science of Racism’ is published by Pan Macmillan and is available here.

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This week, Ellen and Alona are joined by Kenneth Roth, who served as the executive director of Human Rights Watch, the NGO, for almost 30 years. During his tenure, Human Rights Watch uncovered abuses across 100 countries and pressured offending governments to stop them.

Ken’s new book, Righting Wrongs, tells this story.

On the podcast, he discusses the importance of “shame” in holding governments to account, and explores the attacks on Human Rights Watch over the years, particularly regarding its analysis of Israel’s policies and its findings of apartheid in the occupied territories—criticisms which felt even more personal because of his Jewish heritage.Ken also analyses where progressives are failing, the challenge of identity politics, and whether international law truly has any teeth.

To read more on this topic from our website, click here.

Ken’s book ‘Righting Wrongs: Three Decades on the Front Lines Battling Abusive Governments’ is available here.

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Australia is often referred to as “the lucky country”, a place where good fortune has delivered greater wealth, longer lives and better healthcare. But, as Andrew Low argues in We Should Be So Lucky, Australia’s achievements are not merely a matter of luck—they stem from a distinctive blend of political, social and economic institutions and values.

Andrew sat down with Sir Clive Cowdery, Publisher of Prospect and Chairman of Resolution Life, to discuss the new book, which is published by Prospect Editions. Drawing on his vast experience in global business and finance and his deep connection to Australia, Andrew offers a compelling analysis of how “The Australian Way” works and why it matters. The book is both a celebration of what Australia has achieved and a guide for other democracies seeking solutions to their own challenges.

Prospect Editions is the new book-publishing arm of Prospect magazine. You can find its inaugural title We Should Be So Lucky, here.

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Sudan’s war has been called the “worst humanitarian crisis in the world”. And yet, media coverage is staggeringly low. But is the war really “forgotten”? Or is it being made invisible?

Yassmin breaks down the situation for newcomers. She shares her family’s story, and talks about the last time she saw the country, when she travelled there for her wedding.

She also discusses how Sudan is connected to regional and global powers, and how countries including the UAE and Saudi Arabia are positioning themselves to benefit from the fallout of the war.

To learn more about the conflict, click here or here.

You can find Yassmin’s writing here. 

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He opens up about his departure from MSNBC after the network cancelled The Mehdi Hasan Show and discusses his move from mainstream to alternative media, almost a year since founding Zeteo on Substack. Zeteo’s contributors now include Naomi Klein and Greta Thunberg.

He criticises the media’s failings, from reporting on Israel’s violence to holding Trump and his acolytes to account, and what he identifies as “anticipatory obedience” to the president.

Finally, Mehdi shares advice for young journalists, and reflects on where he finds hope in dark times.

Plus, Ellen and Alona talk Valentine’s Day: “banger” or “dud”?

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From defending misfit environmentalists to denouncing them in the Daily Mail, Starmer’s evolution might dismay some on the left of the party. Once he was a young human rights lawyer and now he is a prime minister punishing MPs for rebelling on child poverty or arming Israel.

Tom’s column received some criticism on Bluesky from those who see this as pragmatism befitting the UK's highest political office.

But Tom analyses why Starmer’s “strongman” strategy might not be as electorally effective as he hopes. With Labour tanking in the polls, Reform UK is projected to be ahead for the first time. In the upcoming local elections, will Labour be a party for young people? And does this matter?

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss London nightlife: banger or dud?

To read Tom’s column “Starmer is governing against his younger self”, head to https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/politics/labour-party/69157/keir-starmer-governing-against-younger-self-labour

And to read our magazine cover piece on the battle between Labour and Reform, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/politics/69111/labour-vs-reform-farage-starmer

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Dialling in from the Amazon rainforest, she spoke to Prospect’s deputy editor Ellen Halliday about her move from the city of São Paulo to the Amazon in 2017, as well as the thinking that underpins her work.

Eliane argues that our separation from nature has destroyed our survival instincts and "disconnected [us] from life" itself.

She explores why hope isn't actually the key to tackling the climate crisis—and why we should be fighting for life.

Plus, Ellen and Alona discuss biopics: banger or dud?

To read the interview with Eliane from the magazine, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/world/environment-news/climate/69109/eliane-brum-climate-amazon-top-thinker

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Actor and writer Sheila Hancock explores the powerful legacies left by those who change the world, both for better and for worse, while former England cricket captain Mike Brearley offers a hopeful vision for cricket as the world’s sport for refugees.

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She shares her experience working with previous US administrations, and what she’s expecting to see from the special relationship. In the past, members of Starmer’s cabinet have called the president a “buffoon” and a “neo-Nazi-sympathising sociopath”. Will this come back to bite them?

The president’s choice of inauguration guests (Starmer: out, Giorgia Meloni: in) tellingly shows new alliances being forged with the right wing in Europe. But what will Trump 2.0 mean for European defence?

Plus, banger or dud: Ellen and Alona question whether “Blue Monday” is just a marketing gimmick, or something more.

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Critics have called the legislation “bungled piecemeal reform”, “high-handed” and “shoddy”.

Meg Russell, professor of British and Comparative Politics at UCL, joins Ellen and Alona to unpick the conflict and controversy in the second chamber. She discusses the history and future of this institution, whether our system really is unique, and why outrage over prime ministerial honours lists might be misplaced.Is this the beginning of the end of the Lords? How might our political system change forever? Will this constitutional reform be Starmer's legacy?

Plus, as some other becloaked figures have captured the nation’s attention, Ellen and Alona muse over the reality TV show Traitors: banger or dud?

To read more on the House of Lords from our website, including Meg’s writing, head to:

https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/politics/westminster/house-of-lords

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Now, for our first episode of the year, she joins deputy editor Ellen Halliday to talk about the situation. What will the year ahead look like in Ukraine? What challenges does Kyiv face? And what will its relationship with Trump’s America look like? She also reflects on the role of Derzhprom, a constructivist building in Kharkiv, in the psyche of the city.

Plus, producer Imaan joins Ellen to weigh in on new year’s resolutions: banger or dud?

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In September, journalist and author Oliver Burkeman joined Prospect’s Ellen Halliday and Mindful life columnist Sarah Collins to talk mental health and building a meaningful life—and why his book, Meditations for Mortals, really isn’t self-help.

Plus, political journalist Jonn Elledge dialled in from Brighton to help them decide whether the Liberal Democrats are a “banger” or a “dud”.

This episode was first published in September 2024. The Prospect podcast will return on the 8th of January.

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There’s been an assassination attempt on Donald President, and a crisis at the Washington Post… but which episodes do they find the most memorable?

Michael Lewis came to Prospect Towers in September to promote his new book about Sam Bankman-Fried, Going Infinite. But when Alan started reading out criticism of the book, the temperature dropped several degrees. The heated resulting exchange is hard to forget.

Ahead of the US election, Rebecca Solnit joined Alan and Lionel to discuss her concerns about the American media “sanewashing” Donald Trump.

Finally, James Harding and Carole Cadwalladr recently appeared on the show to tell-all about Tortoise's controversial decision to buy the Observer. James received a grilling from our hosts. Now, with Observer journalists striking, who’s to say who was right?

2025 promises to be a heck of a ride.

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From politics to technology and culture, what will be the most interesting stories of 2025? Ellen and Alona are joined by contributors to discuss the trends that we should be watching in the UK, across the pond, and around the globe...

Listen out for guest appearances from Prospect editor Alan Rusbridger and Lionel Barber, who host our sister podcast Media Confidential. And send us your predictions at editorial@prospectmagazine.co.uk!

Not sure what to gift this Christmas? Why not make use of our discounted subscription offer at: https://subscription.prospectmagazine.co.uk/dec24off/prospect-magazine/de24nl

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Ellen and Alona are joined by Syria expert Lina Khatib, director of the Middle East Institute at SOAS and associate fellow at Chatham House. While many were surprised by the rapid toppling of Assad’s regime, Lina was not.

As people speculate about what HTS and other rebel groups intend for Syria, she explains why this might not be what western commentators expect. And with some voicing anxiety about Syria becoming a new Afghanistan, she unpacks why these comparisons just don’t make sense—and what policymakers are getting wrong.

Plus, unicorns and dinosaurs: banger or dud? From medieval monsters to Big Oil, Priya Khanchandani shares the secret histories and consumer messaging behind two of the most ubiquitous creatures in the toy industry. Read her feature "Unicorns and Dinosaurs are everywhere!" from our Winter Special magazine issue here.

Lina’s piece on pragmatism in Syria can also be found at prospectmagazine.co.uk. To watch this interview, head to our YouTube channel, where the Prospect podcast is published every Thursday.

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In 2024, around 70 countries with a combined population of 3.4bn went to the polls. In many of those elections—in the EU, India and the US, the far right did surprisingly well. But why do the far right seem to be the only group to have benefitted from the turbulence of recent years? Was it inevitable? He joins Prospect’s Ellen Halliday to discuss.

Plus, a festive “banger” or “dud”: posh advent calendars—terrific or tacky?

To watch this interview, search for ‘Prospect magazine’ on YouTube, where episodes are published every Thursday.

Cas’s piece “Doom Spiral” is featured in the latest issue of the magazine, which can be read in print or online at prospectmagazine.co.uk.

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To unpack these big questions, Ellen and Alona are joined by journalist Rachel Shabi, whose new book Off-White: The Truth About Antisemitism was released earlier this month.

Rachel explores the rising tensions of the past year, including the impact of Israel’s wars in Gaza and Lebanon, and a slew of misinformation and bad faith arguments on social media. She discusses her own identity as a British-Israeli with Iraqi heritage, how antisemitism has historically intersected with other forms of racism, and how it gets weaponised today. And she forces us to confront our own dark history—the idea that Britain’s antisemitism was “the first and the worst”.

To watch this thoughtful discussion on race, privilege and prejudice, search for ‘Prospect magazine’ on YouTube, where episodes are published every Thursday.

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This week, Ellen and Alona are joined by researcher and local government expert Jack Shaw to talk about his exclusive investigation into the growing scandal of temporary accommodation. This form of homelessness is worse in the UK than in any other nation in the OECD and has a terrible impact on families and individuals.

Jack reveals what goes into an investigation and shares his most shocking discoveries, including the millions that councils are doling out to private hoteliers. He explains why this is a problem—and which councils are trying to fix a broken system.

Plus, the hosts take on a hard-hitting Daily Mail article which condemned gen-Z’s embrace of “woke sandwiches”. Are fancy sandwiches a “banger” or a “dud”? Ellen and Alona discuss.

To read Jack’s article “Temporary accommodation nation” from the latest issue of the magazine, click here.

And to order tickets to our special book event with Lionel Barber, go here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/gamblingman

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This week, Ellen and Alona are joined by writer Sarah Manavis to discuss the small but significant group of women who promote anti-feminist values online—and why so many others watch their videos.

Sarah argues that the success of right-wing young men with large social media followings has distracted from a boom in similarly reactionary gen-Z women. Lifestyle influencers—from the overtly political to the unassuming—are using social media to championing a return to traditional gender roles.

Sarah reported on the story for the most recent issue of Prospect magazine. While researching her article, she spoke with academics to analyse why so many women gravitate towards making and consuming this brand of content online.

Is this harmless escapism, or a form of radicalisation? What about the paradox of self-made women making their careers out of promoting domestic lifestyles? And in the aftermath of Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris, Sarah discusses what trends on social media tell us about the US more broadly.

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As parliament discusses assisted dying once again, Prospect invited two of our most profound thinkers—Rowan Williams and Brenda Hale—to debate the issue. As archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams led a Church that publicly opposes any form of assisted dying, while, as a Supreme Court judge, Brenda Hale was involved in life-or-death judgements.

In a moving discussion, Hale discusses her own Christian faith, while Williams shares his pastoral experience in the company of the dying. They join Prospect’s editor Alan Rusbridger and commissioning editor Emily Lawford for a thoughtful and vitally important conversation.

To read this conversation from the magazine, visit our website.

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Jill describes how this American election compares to what she’s seen in the past, and answers listeners’ questions. What’s the mood in the US? Can we trust the polls? And what might happen between now and election day to move the dial?

To watch this episode, head to the Prospect magazine YouTube channel.

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What have witches in the dark ages got to do with American democracy? How has the internet destabilised state power? And what does that mean for this November’s election?

Conspiracy theories about satanic cabals took off in America after the 2020 election—and 41 per cent of Americans now believe that the politicians they elect aren’t actually the people governing the country. To many, the truth seems increasingly murky.

Gabriel’s reporting has taken him deep into the rabbit hole of this strange and eerie world. On the podcast, he shares the stories that went into his most recent book, The Coming Storm: A Journey into the Heart of the Conspiracy Machine, based on his BBC Radio 4 series of the same name.

Listen to this spooky episode—or watch on YouTube—to find out about America’s old ghosts, new superstitions, burgeoning evil and unravelling reality.

The Coming Storm is available here.

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They are joined by Isabel Hilton, Prospect’s contributing editor who shares her experiences at COP, and Sam Alvis, a policy advisor and director of energy and environment at Public First.

25 out of the 35 key “planetary vital signs” are out of bounds, and biodiversity is rapidly dwindling. At the same time, a growing culture war means consensus about action is increasingly contested in the political space. Last year, a government minister left the conference early to vote on the Rwanda scheme—now, is Labour doing any better?

Isabel and Sam discuss the government’s climate plans and rank its performance out of ten. But why do leaders struggle to make progress? And, amid growing climate-related anxiety, how can we avoid a sense of paralysis?

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Public faith in democracy has been undermined by hidden influence and undisclosed donations—but how susceptible is the new government to this?

In an entertaining conversation, spanning from Mongolian wrestling to Keir Starmer’s glasses, Peter shares his journey doing investigative work, the corrosive impact of what he calls “dark money”, and what Labour is getting wrong.

To watch this interview and others—including with Baroness Warsi and Jon Sopel—search for ‘Prospect Magazine’ on YouTube.

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Politicians, media outlets, think tanks and even the entertainment industry have poisoned public discourse about Muslims, culminating in this summer’s riots. She describes how Islamophobia, which she calls “Britain's bigotry blind spot”, not only passes the “dinner table test”, but has been enacted into policy.

In a moving conversation about her journey in the public eye, she talks about her lifelong effort to challenge racism and why she’s finally resigned the whip.

Muslims Don’t Matter is out now: https://www.littlebrown.co.uk/titles/sayeeda-warsi/muslims-dont-matter/9780349136486/

Her podcast with David Baddiel ‘A Muslim and a Jew go there’ is available to stream: https://shows.acast.com/a-muslim-a-jew-go-there

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Emily spent months reporting “The incel trap” for this month’s issue of the magazine, meeting with self-proclaimed misogynists in real life. On the podcast, Emily shares what she learned about why young men are radicalised—including the role of mental health—and how online hatred is connected to violence against women in the "real world".

Plus, silent discos and maternity pay gaffes—is the Tory party conference a “banger” or a “dud”?

To read Emily's piece, click here: https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/ideas/philosophy/gender/67935/the-incel-trap

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Jon also shares his view on the problems with Robbie Gibb and how editorial standards are overseen at the BBC. Some at the BBC think Robbie Gibb’s stewardship of editorial standards at the broadcaster is “absolutely monstrous”, he says. “It really doesn't bear scrutiny, and then it still going on, strikes me as unbelievable”.

Plus, Alona dials in from rainy Liverpool to decide whether the Labour conference has been a “banger” or a “dud” for Starmer’s party.

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Plus, freelance political journalist Jonn Elledge dials in from the Lib Dem conference in Brighton to help us decide whether Ed Davey's party is a “banger” or a “dud”.

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They are joined by Nathan Thrall, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of A Day in the Life of Abed Salama: Anatomy of a Jerusalem Tragedy, which follows the life of a Palestinian man whose son Milad died in a 2012 road accident in the West Bank.

Thrall, who is based in Jerusalem, discusses how Salama’s story provides a window into the wider tragedy of Israel Palestine. 

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In this episode of the Prospect Podcast, deputy editor Ellen Halliday is joined by Baillie Gifford award-winning author and historian Serhii Plokhy to discuss his new book Chernobyl Roulette, which tells the gripping story of the occupation of the former nuclear site by Russian forces following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Plokhy recounts the experiences of Ukrainian workers who were forced to manage the plant under dangerous conditions, revealing the complicated power dynamics between them and the invading Russian forces, as well as the implications of this event for global nuclear safety. The conversation delves into how this occupation fits into the larger context of the war in Ukraine and what it reveals about the geopolitical significance of nuclear sites. Plus, Alona and Ellen debate whether—in the words of the Grid—the reunion of the legendary rock band Oasis is a “banger” or “dud.”

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Read Wilding’s investigation here.

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After the break—is Britain ready to for Putin? Ellen Halliday speaks with Malcolm Chalmers, deputy director general of the defence and security think tank Rusi about the nuclear threat, and what the next government might do to ensure a secure future.

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After, Ellen unpacks the crisis in universities with professor of academic history Glen O’Hara, who explains why they are in such trouble and what it means for students.

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Read Kellner's column and Fabricius’s feature here.

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Read Priymavada's piece here.

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Read Peter’s latest column here.

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Perhaps more importantly, what should the animating moral principle of a potential new Labour government be? And is Keir Starmer prepared to be bold in pursuit of a vision—or will he be timid?

Will Hutton, economist, columnist and author of new book This Time No Mistakes: How to Remake Britain joins Ellen Halliday on the podcast.

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Read Andrew Graystone's cover story here.

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Read Deyan's piece here.

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Read Samira Shackle’s feature here. 

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Gen Z Alice and nonagenarian Sheila are joined by Prospect’s boomer editor Alan Rusbridger and millennial Sarah Collins to discuss everything from housing to climate change to mental health—and whether there’s anything one generation can learn from the other.

This conversation with two of Prospect’s Lives columnists is also available to read in the latest issue.

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Read Stuart's feature here.

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Read Tom’s profile here.

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Read Samuel's essay here.

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Read Isabel's piece on the Argentinian economy here.

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Prospect brings rigorously fact-checked analysis, ideas and perspectives to the big topics the world is grappling with. Special offer: buy a digital subscription for only £3 for three months access (then £49 annually). Click here to subscribe.

Click here to listen to our Prospect Lives podcast.

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Prospect brings rigorously fact-checked analysis, ideas and perspectives to the big topics the world is grappling with. Special offer: Buy a digital subscription for only £3 for three months access (then £49 annually).

Click here to subscribe.

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Please note, this podcast was recorded on Sunday 16th October.

Prospect brings rigorously fact-checked analysis, ideas and perspectives to the big topics the world is grappling with. Special offer: buy a digital subscription for only £3 for three months access (then £49 annually).

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Prospect brings rigorously fact-checked analysis, ideas and perspectives to the big topics the world is grappling with. Special offer: Buy a digital subscription – only £3 for three months' access (then £49 annually).

Click HERE to subscribe.

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If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to our Prospect Lives podcast here: https://podfollow.com/prospect-lives/view

Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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Prospect Lives podcast: https://podfollow.com/prospect-lives

Music Credit: "JUMBO" from the album "MUSIC FOR THE LEFT-HANDED" by Mick Bass & Tot Taylor

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If you enjoyed this podcast, why not have a listen to our Prospect Lives podcast?

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Subscribe to our monthly Prospect Lives podcast to hear more from Sheila, Alice, Tom and the rest of the Lives family here.

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In this week’s podcast, deputy editor Ellen Halliday is joined by Luke Hildyard, director of the High Pay Centre, and Sandy Pepper, emeritus professor of the London School of Economics, to discuss how CEO pay packets got so out of control—and whether or not there’s a way to fix it.

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Content note: This episode contains strong language and sexual references

Does the criminalisation or liberalisation of the sex industry best protect the women who work in it? And what are the consequences of sex work for women as a whole? Sex worker and writer Tilly Lawless and journalist and editor Jessica Abrahams join Alan Rusbridger to discuss the essays they wrote for the most recent issue of the magazine. Lawless argues in defence of her clients at the suburban brothel in Australia where she works, while Abrahams reports from Bristol where a proposal for a ban on strip clubs has divided opinion amongst feminist campaigners and dancers.

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