David Aaronovitch lecture: 15 March

David Aaronovitch, columnist and lead writer on The Times, spoke to sixth form boys studying Politics, History and Economics. In a presentation titled 'Unpredictability', David took us back five years to 2007 and gave an overview of economic and political themes.

Hillary Clinton is likely to be the next President, continued economic growth, dictatorships in place in the Middle East and the possibility of a Lab-Lib coalition after the next election. No Twitter, no Facebook. If a week is a long time in politics, then 5 years must be an eternity.

Using these themes and events to highlight just how unpredictable the world can be, David explored the possible future for newsprint, the role of Britain on the global scale and the suggestion of reform and liberalisation in China. After a lively question and answer session, the discussion continued over dinner where the boys had a chance to discuss tuition fees, the world of News International and whether Labour had the right Miliband in charge. We were assured that the discussion over dinner was off the record despite a journalist being in the room - we shall watch The Times with interest over the next few days!!

Dr David Smith
Deputy Head Academic

Posted: Monday, March 19, 2012