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Welcome! It’s timely to stress that The Political Compass has been on the internet since 2001. The uniqueness of our take on politics is reflected in the gratifyingly enthusiastic reviews we’ve enjoyed in the national media of many countries from our earliest years — as well as from many teachers and academics who continue to use our work.

Read more about our work here.

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Anti‑Intellectualism in the US

Einstein being burnt at the stake

Distrust and scorn towards intellectuals has always been a powerful force in the United States, according to a Pulitzer Prize-winning book written 62 years ago by Richard Hofstadter, Anti-Intellectualism in American Life.

Many other academics have looked at this question over the years, contrasting the widespread American attitude to that of the Europeans.

Now a fascinating new book from Oxford University Press takes up the theme. Anti Scientific Americans is written by Boston University Professor Matthew Motta. Wayne Brittenden discusses with him the social and political factors that have brought this about.

    The Secrets of National Songs

    All you need to know about the making and meaning of national songs! Erik Levi, Professor of Music at Royal Holloway, University of London, talks about the musical devices that stir emotions in patriotic songs and takes a critical look at some interesting examples.

      The Death penalty and the Authoritarian Personality

      Robert Dunham, Executive Director of the Death Penalty Information Center in Washington DC, discusses with Wayne Brittenden the ethical and legal situation of capital punishment globally — but particularly in the US, which is the only western democracy that — at least in 29 states — can still execute its citizens.

        Iconochasms

        Gandhi

        The chasm between your icons and what you probably don’t know about them

        How Fascism Works — The politics of us and them

        Benito Mussolini

        Philosopher and Professor of Philosophy at Yale University Jason Stanley discusses his book on fascism — a word currently widely used but often misunderstood. Stanley, also the author of How Propaganda Works, offers some unique insights into the fascist mindset and the circumstances that help create it. 

          Trump: Making Hyperboles and Superlatives Great Again

          It took Joe Biden’s departure to spotlight Trump’s own shortcomings in communication. The unfinished sentences, repetitions and overblown rhetoric are nothing new, but …

          An Open Letter to Christopher Columbus

          Christopher Columbus

          Since you’ve been in the news, it seems timely to drop you a line. After all, it’s not everyone that gets a US holiday in their honour. You and Martin Luther King. The two of you could hardly be more different …

          The Political Compass in a nutshell

          Our amusing video explains so much in less than 5 minutes!

          Gardens and Politics

          What your garden reveals …

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