Perils and Pitfalls of the Political Life
In 2008, Rory Stewart, the British diplomat, colonial governor, and rumored spy, embarked on a new adventure as the director for the Carr Center for Human Rights Policy at Harvard.
Stewart, filled with ambition and a desire for global influence, was captivated by the politicians he encountered in America. He described them as “much more serious figures than their British equivalents,” praising their magnificent hair, commanding voices, and captivating smiles that could captivate crowds of thousands. He even compared dining with John Kerry to dining with Roman senators on their way to becoming marble statues.
If Stewart had stayed at Harvard, his latest memoir might have been a fascinating account of an Englishman finding his place in American academia, similar to his bestselling book, The Places In Between, where he recounted his journey across Afghanistan. However, fate had other plans for Stewart.
He was courted by the three main political parties in Britain to become a Member of Parliament. When he tentatively asked a friend in a New York diner for her opinion on the matter, she bluntly replied, “I think that is a very bad idea.”
Despite his friend’s warning, Stewart chose to enter the world of British politics, representing the North England constituency of Penrith and the Border. For nine years, he served as an MP, until he resigned from the Conservative party in protest against Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s actions. Since then, he has become a cohost of the successful podcast The Rest is Politics and has taught courses at Yale as a Jackson senior fellow.
Now, Stewart is ready to reveal what is wrong with contemporary British politics in his book, How Not To Be A Politician.
Stewart is known for his excellent writing skills and his ability to communicate effectively. He embodies a more distinguished and dignified era of British politics, reminiscent of Churchill and Baldwin. However, he admits that his own political career was unimpressive.
Before entering Parliament, Stewart made it clear to Conservative leader David Cameron that he believed his talents were best suited for ministerial positions. However, Cameron disagreed, stating that being a backbench Member of Parliament was the greatest honor in life. Stewart’s subsequent experiences with Cameron revealed a different side to the former prime minister.
In his book, Stewart does not hold back in his criticism of various prime ministers, including Cameron, Liz Truss, and his fellow Etonian and Balliol man, Boris Johnson. While he has described Johnson as “the most accomplished liar in public life,” he also vividly portrays him as a grinning toddler with small, uneven teeth.
Stewart’s observations shed light on the limitations of politicians and their constant shuffling between roles, preventing them from fully grasping their responsibilities. He highlights the true power lying with the civil service, while politicians merely serve as spokespersons, coffee servers, sources of money, and mascots.
How Not To Be A Politician, also known as Politics on the Edge in the UK, is an angry, funny, and profound exploration of the absurdities of human nature within Britain’s parliamentary democracy. It leaves readers feeling a mix of exhilaration and depression. Stewart wrote most of the book at Yale, which may explain the sense of detachment he maintains throughout. If he ever decides to write a memoir about his time in the United States, it is sure to be just as captivating as this one.
How Not To Be A Politician: A Memoir
by Rory Stewart
Penguin, 464 pp., $30
Alexander Larman is a journalist, historian, and author, most recently, of The Windsors at War: The King, His Brother, and a Family Divided (St. Martin’s Press).
How does Rory Stewart critique the role of political parties in his analysis of British politics and what changes does he advocate for
Olitics, with his eloquent speech and thoughtful approach to policymaking. In his latest book, Stewart aims to shed light on the flaws and shortcomings of the current political landscape and offers insights on how to improve it.
One of the main themes explored in “How Not To Be A Politician” is the lack of authenticity in British politics. Stewart argues that politicians have become too focused on image and popularity, rather than genuinely serving the needs of the people. He criticizes the performative nature of modern politics, where politicians prioritize winning over meaningful policy change. Drawing upon his own experiences, Stewart shares anecdotes of instances where he witnessed politicians sacrificing their principles for short-term gains.
Another key issue highlighted in the book is the widening gap between politicians and the general public. Stewart believes that there is a growing disconnect between those in power and the everyday citizens they are supposed to represent. He argues that politicians have become too detached from the realities and concerns of ordinary people, resulting in policies that do not effectively address the pressing issues of society. Through his book, Stewart calls for a return to a more accountable and responsive political system, where politicians actively engage with and listen to the needs of their constituents.
Furthermore, Stewart delves into the role of political parties and the partisan nature of British politics. He argues that party loyalty often takes precedence over individual integrity and the pursuit of the common good. Drawing from his own disillusionment with the Conservative party, Stewart criticizes the lack of internal debate and diversity of thought within political parties. He advocates for a more inclusive and open-minded political landscape, where individuals are free to express their opinions and challenge the status quo.
In “How Not To Be A Politician,” Rory Stewart offers a thought-provoking analysis of the problems plaguing British politics and provides a roadmap for change. His emphasis on authenticity, accountability, and dialogue highlights the importance of reevaluating the current approach to governance. By sharing his own experiences and insights, Stewart seeks to inspire a new generation of politicians who prioritize the interests of the people and embody true leadership.
As an acclaimed diplomat and former member of parliament, Rory Stewart’s perspective on British politics carries weight. His book serves as a call to action, urging politicians and citizens alike to reflect on the state of contemporary politics and work towards meaningful reform. Through his compelling arguments and engaging writing style, Stewart tackles the complexities of the political world, offering valuable insights that are sure to spark conversation and incite change.
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