Opinion

Why the US midterms matter

How could the outcome of the US midterm elections ever affect an Oxford student? Well, the elections might affect the cost of your next Tesco or Sainsbury’s visit. This...

Debate chamber: Are Oxford’s political party societies fit for purpose?

Oxford’s political party societies have a dual reputation. On one side of the coin, many boast long-standing histories and influential alumni, from Clement Attlee to David Cameron. Flip to the tail end, and you find a termly reality of boisterous drinking socials and inconclusive debates that are, in the words of Cherwell’s Stanley Smith, “more fixated with personality than party”. But does this reputation really disrupt the confines of what these political party societies are made for?

Unity is the antidote

At a recent march in Oxford against the far right, one speaker’s words really...

In defence of consent training

CW: sexual violence It is often well-intentioned, stereotypically ‘progressive’ people who argue against the need...

A Brit abroad: student reactions to Argentine assassination attempt

"The overwhelming tone on Thursday night was not one of grave solemnity nor political reflection, but of mockery and exasperation at yet another national crisis."

The slow death of liberty

The problem with all these superficially defendable laws is that they fundamentally change our understanding of what a right is.

What are Conservative Party Members thinking?

"What makes all of this even more crazy and difficult for me to get my head around is that the members seem blissfully unaware of just how unelectable Truss is"

Accessibility is More than a Bullet Point – On Liz Truss’ Oxbridge Pledge

"Accessibility is about empowerment. It is about knowledge – addressing the legitimate fears that state school students have and enabling them to make an informed choice about what studying at Oxford or Cambridge is like."

Oxford in the summer

"Oxford in the summer is truly a unique experience because there are the same dreaming spires without the dreamers."

Is Labour still about labour?

Some people have noticed that the Labour Party is becoming progressively detached from the needs of the working class.

A very Italian scandal: the story of Draghi’s fall

The uniqueness of Italian politics is its surreal and absurd dimensions.

A crisis on our doorstep: threats to abortion rights are closer than you think

This ‘distant’ despair is much closer than we fear.

The fall of ‘Super Mario’ – Draghi resignation now risks adding to Italy and Europe’s political turmoil

The leaders of Italy’s biggest political parties must, now more than ever, put the interests of their people at the forefront of their minds.

What future awaits the Conservative Party?

"Rishi Sunak [...] could be a dangerous choice: despite his heroic attempts to save the economy amidst the pandemic, his far-right policy and strategy since have been damaging to the working class."

Mo Farah – How Britain’s greatest athlete enhanced his legacy even further

Farah’s hope in revealing his story is that people sit up and take notice

The Trade Union Scare

It is also worth asking: how can workers respond to unjust circumstances and work conditions if their demands are largely ignored?

The Complicated Legacy of Shinzo Abe

Abe’s most cherished goal was to revise Japan’s ‘pacifist’ constitution; a goal he never achieved.

Writing on the Filing Cabinets: A State School Student’s Response to Emma Duncan

"The implication that our [state school students'] presence is a threat to upholding the average IQ here is unbelievably condescending."

Elizabeth the Last: What next for the monarchy?

"Is it right that our national anthem reveres nothing but our monarch? Is there not far more to our country than that?"

The University must take a look at itself before dishing out trashing fines

While climate change is at the top of the University's agenda in research and development, the University seems to have little qualms about accepting funds from the world's mega polluters.

The changing role of Christianity in British society

In 2018 a survey found that 70% of young Brits aged 16–29 had no religious affiliation. Yet the country as a whole remains firmly...

Love and patriotism: A critical reflection on the Jubilee

As Jubilee weekend approaches I am conflicted. Many on Sunday will be celebrating their affection for our nation, and I should make it clear...

Free speech and genuine questioning: Is the Oxford Union failing us?

"denied the opportunity to ask a question, I heckled Singer with disgust over the ‘soft-ball questions’."

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