Being British by D'Ancona Ed Matthew (9781845964146)
D'Ancona Ed Matthew
Release Date: 15 February 2009 Format: Paperback Pages: 285 Category: Society & Social Sciences Publisher: Random House UK ISBN: 9781845964146 ISBN-10: 1845964144
What does being British actually mean today? Depending on your age, it can conjure up imagery of the Battle of Waterloo, Queen Victoria's Empire, the British Lions rugby team or that famous Union Jack dress Geri Halliwell wore at the Brit Awards. In the twenty-first century, Britain - like many Western countries - enjoys a diverse racial mix. Therefore, as with the USA , we need to explore the values and cultural reference points around us to fully understand what it now means to be a British citizen. Twenty essays written by well-known individuals representing a cross-section of Britain's cultural landscape attempt to offer an insight into, or snapshot of, how Britons today see themselves and their place in the world.Their thoughts will highlight just how divergent our society is and where its strengths and weaknesses lie. All these views are championed by two unlikely collaborators - Spectator editor Matthew d'Ancona and Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Often politically opposed, they share a passionate interest in exploring what is now meant by being British.
This unique book will enlighten, inspire and stir up many debates but ultimately it will provide a path to any reader wanting to understand just what being British in the new millennium actually means.