The Lucy Cavendish College Politics Society recently hosted guest speaker Jeremy Corbyn for an engaging discussion with students.
The session provided an opportunity for attendees to explore a range of pressing political themes.
The conversation commenced with a focus on the concept of 'hope' in contemporary politics. According to Ruben Francis, President of the Lucy Cavendish Politics Society, Mr Corbyn shared his perspective on maintaining an ambitious vision for a fairer society. When asked about sustaining hope amidst a challenging political landscape, he reportedly attributed his motivation to the "continued resilience and compassion of individuals and communities."
The discussion also touched upon the topic of nuclear disarmament. Politics Society President, Ruben, shared that Mr Corbyn highlighted a disparity in public discourse, noting, "over his political career, he has been asked countless times by journalists whether he would have 'the courage', or 'what it takes', to 'push the nuclear button' - but could count on the fingers of one hand the number of times he has been asked how we can work to disarm ourselves of nuclear weapons and build a world of peace." This led to what was described as a "fascinating detour" into envisioning how such a world could be achieved.
He then talked about practicalities of political life. Mr Corbyn reflected on the balance that must be struck in politics between being ambitious in policy and promises, and grappling with the realities of the politics 'game'. An anecdote was shared about a political associate in Mexico who sought to reshape the political narrative by proactively setting the agenda through daily 6am press conferences. While Mr Corbyn expressed reservations about the direct applicability of this specific tactic in the UK's media environment, the underlying theme of agenda-setting resonated through the discussion.
Concluding the event, Mr Corbyn explained that if we are to unite the growing marginalised, insecure, and disillusioned groups in society… we must set the agenda ourselves. Be hopeful, rather than fearful; ambitious, rather than narrow-minded.
The event offered Lucy Cavendish students a platform to engage directly with a prominent political figure on a variety of critical issues facing society today.