#65. Mainstreaming of the Far-Right - Dr. Aaron Winter

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Winter, senior lecturer in sociology at Lancaster University and Director of the Centre for Alternatives to Social and Economic Inequalities (CASEI), to unpack the complex rise and normalization of far-right ideologies. From his personal roots in anti-racist activism to his research on racism, terrorism, and structural inequality, Dr. Winter explores how mainstream institutions, media, and political parties have helped legitimize far-right narratives. We discuss the myth of the “white working class” grievance, how race and class are falsely divided, the political misuse of populism, and the dangers of platforming hate under the guise of public discourse. An essential listen for anyone concerned about democracy, justice, and the future of inclusive politics.

Dr. Aaron Winter: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/sociology/people/aaron-winter 

Chapters

• 0:00 Aaron Winter's Introduction to Sociology
• 3:01 The Hidden History of Racism in Countries
• 10:27 Middle Class and the Mainstreaming of the Far-Right
• 16:35 Why go far-right not far-left?
• 26:11 The Youth and Far Right Politics
• 34:30 Do we need a new Social Contract?
• 42:37 Left-wing parties moving right. What's next?
• 49:24 Defining the Far Right: A Complex Landscape
• 1:01:06 What even is the "Mainstream"?
• 1:07:08 How can we make this better?
• 1:09:55 Hot Takes and Wrap up