‘Austerity is inevitably painful’: How Michael Gove justifies his politics | Radical Thinking with Aditya Chakrabortty

In this episode of 'Radical Thinking', Michael Gove, a key figure in British conservatism, reflects on the changing landscape of the right and his own political evolution. Gove, once a compassionate conservative, acknowledges a shift towards a harder ideology within the Tory party. He discusses his early interests in leftist thought and how they shaped his understanding of politics, stating his overarching mission has been to tackle inequality. Despite criticism of austerity measures and Brexit's economic impact, he defends their necessity and relevance.

The conversation touches on the fractures within the right, influenced by identity politics and economic uncertainty. Gove sees a new, nativist strain emerging in response to societal fears. He also addresses the polarizing effect of his magazine, The Spectator, and the challenges of articulating a conservative identity in a fragmented political climate. Gove's belief in the power of conservative narratives is challenged by current realities and the shifting ethos of the party he represents. He concludes by noting the importance of regulating new technologies like AI, revealing a consideration for the future direction of conservatism and governance.