Jon Cruddas talks to Jonathan Rutherford about socialism, class and the Labour Party.

The last three decades have seen a new type of capitalism, characterised by the pursuit of insecurity and a fragmentation of the institution of work. A new socialist politics can only be successful if it recognises the interdependence of individuals argues Jonathan Rutherford .

Britain’s social recession is having effects which are every bit as painful and unsettling as those suffered during an economic downturn. Jonathan Rutherford reports.

We are reproducing in two parts a chapter on Enoch Powell from Jonathan Rutherford’s new book, Forever England. Using a mixture of political, historical and psychological analysis, Rutherford offers a rich account of the interaction of masculinity, empire and race in the development of Powell’s notorious but undoubtedly significant brand of politics. This part focuses in particular on Powell’s relationship to the British Empire and the development of his character through his austere and isolated childhood and education. Part 2, following shortly, draws upon this backdrop to develop an account of his political career.

Britain is going to suffer acutely in the forthcoming downturn, says Jonathan Rutherford, since our social infrastructure has been heavily eroded by economic liberalism

In an extended analysis, Jonathan Rutherford looks at the connections between government and the insurance business in their joint project to reduce eligibility for sickness benefits.