Audio: Paul Lay on the Greek Riots

On Monday evening Paul Lay, editor of History Today, appeared on Monocle 24's radio show The Monocle Daily, to talk about the recent clashes that have rocked Athens, and the historical significance of riots.

In the studio with Monocle's Hugo McDonald and Steve Bloomfield, he explores the notion that riots are actually an expression of conservatism and a sense that something is fundamentally wrong in the body politic. He also compares and contrasts the current situation in Greece to other examples of rioting throughout history, from the French Revolution through to the Arab Spring and the unrest in England last summer, and discusses whether they can ever be truly successful.

To listen, visit the Monocle 24 website and listen to the show, which was episode 76, first broadcast at 10pm on Monday February 14th. Paul's appearance begins at the nine minute mark. Alternatively you can listen to the show via iTunes.

From The Archive:

History Predicts a Riot

There is nothing new or exceptional about the recent English riots and they will have little long-term impact, argues Tim Stanley.