Why did populism succeed with Trump in 2016 but not before? the answer is not Russia... but it might be Facebook.

Niall Ferguson

We are in the middle of a populist backlash against globalisation. Financial crises, growing inequality, high levels of migration and distrust in government have made fertile ground for nationalist demagogues promising a return to the good old days. But what happens next?

Historically, populist economic policies have often carried the seeds of their own destruction, and strongmen are deserted by their disappointed followers when miracles do not appear. Will this be the fate of the triumphant populists of today, from Trump and Orban to the Brexiteers?

This talk was recorded live on stage at the Festival of Dangerous Ideas 2018.