Benjamin Bland: Researching the Extreme Right and Underground Music Culture

In this month's episode we hear from the historian Benjamin Bland. He presents a new interpretation of the role of fascism within contemporary British history, charting the history of the British neo-fascism and explores the reflections of fascism in underground music cultures from Morrissey, to Joy Division, to the white supremacist rock band Screwdriver. Benjamin reflects on the fact that at the start of his research the idea of Brexit wasn't comprehendible and President Trump hadn't announced his candidacy for presidency. Benjamin's historical research into punk and different fascist movements in Britain shows that the extreme right has actually influenced the politics of race and nation in contemporary Britain to a degree far greater than its lack of conventional political success may suggest. Thus, this research on the late twentieth century is hugely topical in our current political turmoil. He also goes on to a broader discussion of the challenges of doing a PhD whilst juggling teaching commitments and the pressure to publish and excel within the academic job market. A fascinating listen to historical issues that resonate strongly with our current political climate.