With capitalism in deep crisis, this urgent and impassioned book shows how and why growing populist nationalism across the world threatens the bonds that keep our societies prosperous, strong and united.
Across the globe support for free markets, globalisation and liberal democracies is in steep decline. In this 'Age of Unreason' experts are denigrated while prejudice is celebrated. The simplistic cries of anti-market populism resonate with those who have been left behind in a new landscape of technological change, near-zero interest rates and recovery from financial crisis. Insecurity is fuelled by mass migration, with more displaced persons across the world than at any time since the end of World War II. New social media amplifies these fears and gives voice to extremes.
As Chancellor of the Exchequer from 2010-2016, George Osborne was not simply a front-row observer, but an active participant in the West's struggle to respond to these challenges. The book draws on his experience of the motivations, contradictions and internal conflicts that shaped UK government policy for the past six years; the referendum campaign and how the events of June 2016 have forced him to examine the assumptions around popular support for free markets and liberal democracy that he has championed all his life.
In an age dominated by economic insecurity, mass immigration, lost identity and powerlessness, this book sets out a radical, alternative vision.
About the Author: Right Honourable George Osborne CH MP is the Conservative Member of Parliament for Tatton, Cheshire. He was first elected to the House of Commons in June 2001. George served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 2010 to 2016 - one of the longest periods anyone has held the office. Following the successful election of a Conservative Government in 2015, he served as First Secretary of State. As a prominent campaigner for Britain to remain in the EU, George left the government in July 2016 following the outcome of the referendum. During his time as Chancellor the fortunes of the British economy dramatically improved, and George left office with the strongest growth record in the G7, the deficit greatly reduced, and the employment rate at an all-time high. He also oversaw major reforms including: the regeneration of the north of England through the 'Northern Powerhouse'; the forging of a new relationship with China; and an overhaul of the UK pension and welfare systems. On his appointment in May 2010, George was the youngest Chancellor since Randolph Churchill in 1886. Prior to that he had served as Shadow Chancellor for five years, ran David Cameron's successful campaign to become Leader of the Conservative Party, and helped negotiate the formation of Britain's first Coalition Government since World War II. In August 2016, George was made a Companion of Honour by Her Majesty the Queen.
