Monumental decision: should statues be removed? - a podcast by Institute of Economic Affairs

In recent weeks we have seen the resurgence of a debate around the appropriateness of statues in public places. Edward Colston was thrown in a river, a campaign is afoot to remove Cecil Rhodes. In Germany, a far-left party has unveiled a public statue of Lenin, to furious protest.

What is the proper way to judge historical figures? Is toppling statues an effective tool to eliminate prejudices? Should we have a Public Memorials (Abolition) Act? Is this the thin end of the wedge: what about blue plaques, or street names? Could it trickle into attitudes towards culture?

Joining IEA Academic and Research Director Professor Syed Kamall are Alex Deane and Dr Stephen Davies.

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