In Defence of the British Empire

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Quillette podcast host Jonathan Kay talks to Oxford Professor Nigel Biggar, author of a newly published, best-selling book that examines the mixed legacy of British colonial rule. • Nigel Biggar is a British moral and pastoral theologian known for his work in ethics, human rights, and the philosophy of religion. As of my last update in April 2023, he was the Regius Professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology and Canon of Christ Church at the University of Oxford. He has also been the director of the McDonald Centre for Theology, Ethics, and Public Life. • Biggar's academic contributions cover a wide range of topics, including medical ethics, just war theory, and Christian ethics. He is particularly noted for his work on the ethics of war and has been involved in public debates about the moral justification of war. His approach often involves a blend of Christian theology and philosophical reasoning, and he is known for his advocacy of a nuanced and context-sensitive approach to moral issues. • One of his notable works is In Defence of War, published in 2013, where he argues that, while war is generally undesirable, it can sometimes be morally justified. This position has generated significant discussion and controversy, especially among those who hold a pacifist perspective. • Biggar's contributions extend beyond academia; he is often involved in public discussions and debates on ethical issues. He has contributed to various media outlets and public forums, making him a well-known figure in discussions related to ethics, war, and morality. • Absolutely, here's the revised format: • *00:00* - Nigel Biggar discusses the British Empire's mixed legacy, challenging the view that its impact was entirely negative • *01:40* - Biggar's perspective on avoiding terms like 'colonialism' or 'imperialism', arguing for the historical diversity of the British Empire • *02:21* - Critique of the focus on European Empires in colonialism discussions, highlighting the neglect of non-European empires • *05:59* - Examination of the historical pattern of empires forming foreign alliances and establishing power • *09:26* - Discussion on the brutality of slavery within European colonialism and its presence in non-European contexts • *11:03* - Biggar's argument against the 'balance sheet' approach to colonialism, focusing on the complexity of colonial actions • *13:17* - Exploration of the various motives behind colonialism, including religious, political, and material interests • *16:11* - Argument that the British Empire, with its humanitarian and liberal trends, differs fundamentally from regimes like Nazi Germany • *20:24* - The role of colonial context in shaping the developments of former colonies • *27:01* - The reliance of colonial empires on cooperation from native peoples and the preference of some natives for colonial rule • *32:01* - Biggar discusses the reception of his book and addresses the controversy and personal attacks from critics • *35:00* - Biggar's experience with the cancellation and subsequent publication of his book, reflecting on the challenges in discussing colonialism • *39:14* - Conclusion discussing the shifting perceptions and discussions of colonialism across different countries • Support Quillette by becoming a subscriber: https://quillette.com/#/portal/signup • #nigelbiggar #colonialism #anglosaxons #britishhistory #Oxford #canada #spain #empire #imperial #europe #militaryhistory #military #liberalism #western #philosophy

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