There is a complete loss of confidence not just by politicians but by the intellectual elite. Firstly, that they could say anything worthwhile and secondly that it would make any difference if they did. I am taken aback by the fact that at fifty years of age I cannot spot anyone who is now doing what I was doing ten years ago. The other aspect of our society is its emphasis on the personal, the intimate and the confessional. Big Brother got more votes than the European elections.
Intellectuals now get together for therapeutic intellectualism.
Its not about political action, it s about self therapy. That opens up wide questions about the milieu, but then the Labour government operates in that milieu. Indeed, and you have to say that it is a government of its time. You have to say that if I were leader and you were the chancellor you might find yourself nearer to the position of Blair and Brown than you are willing to accept. They faced a huge centre right consensus which has been difficult to puncture.