Battles in Print & Culture Wars

Battles in Print are specially-commissioned essays that explore topics being discussed at the Battle of Ideas 2008, serving as introductions to the debate and encouraging further reflection. Battles in Print take a variety of forms, from short provocation essays to longer think pieces and interviews, and are available both online and in print at the festival itself. They are complemented by themed book reviews on Culture Wars, the Academy of Ideas' online review, which was relaunched this summer.

Editors: Dolan Cummings and Sarah Boyes

The 2008 Battles in Print are now available below. Select a theme on the left to see related Battles in Print from the archive.

 Lifestyle & Society

Liberating the NHS?, Brid Hehir

Where do fathers fit?, Jane Sandeman

Refocusing remembrance , Ted Harrison

Rethinking welfare, Dave Clements

Take flight!, Timandra Harkness

Rethinking privacy, Sean Bell

The Empty Staffroom, Richard Swan

The Culture of Adoption, David Clements

Boozy Britain?, Bill Durodie

Out to play, Sue Palmer

Ethical shopping, Kate Soper

 Festival Buzz

"The audience were the stars of the Battle of Ideas - engaged, informed and enthusiastic. As a panellist, I felt both ashamed and educated. Exactly as it should be."
John Street, professor of politics, University of East Anglia