The Anatomy of Thatcherism

by Shirley Robin Letwin
The Anatomy of Thatcherism cover
Good Books rating 4.25
History
Technical
  • ID: 1403
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-10-05
  • ISBN: 9781351294461
  • Publisher: Routledge
  • Published: 2018-04-17
  • Reviews: 3

The Anatomy of Thatcherism delves into the profound social changes brought about by Margaret Thatcher's leadership, arguing that her legacy is more about a moral agenda than economic doctrine. The book introduces the concept of 'the vigorous virtues' to describe the values Thatcherites sought to cultivate in individuals and the nation. Dr. Letwin provides a detailed analysis of key Thatcherite policies, such as schools opting out and the creation of a competitive electricity market, and examines the political and social context that shaped these reforms./n/nThis insightful work challenges common perceptions of British politics and offers a comprehensive look at how Thatcherism both emerged from and confronted long-standing trends in Conservatism. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of British politics and the enduring impact of Thatcher's tenure from 1979 to 1992.

Reviews
Sam Freedman's Substack · Sam Freedman · 2022-01-01
valuable 4.50

The book is noted for its unique analysis of Thatcher's approach to governance, distinguishing itself from other biographies. It is considered a valuable resource for understanding her political strategy.

Sam Freedman highlights The Anatomy of Thatcherism as a standout book on British politics. They appreciate how it differs from other biographies by focusing on Thatcher's approach and policies rather than her personal life. Freedman finds the book insightful and valuable for anyone looking to understand the fundamental realignment Thatcher aimed to achieve. The reviewer suggests that while there are many good biographies of Thatcher, this book offers a unique perspective that is often overlooked.

Quick quotes

    There are lots of good biographies of Thatcher but none that analyse her approach to governance like this book does.

    The book offers a unique perspective on Thatcher's political strategy.

    It is a valuable resource for understanding her political approach.

Oxford Academic · Leon D. Epstein · 1993-12-01
comprehensive 4.25

The book is praised for its detailed chapter-by-chapter analysis of Thatcher's policies. The reviewer finds it a comprehensive and insightful study of Thatcherism.

Leon D. Epstein reviews The Anatomy of Thatcherism as a comprehensive and insightful study of Margaret Thatcher's policies. They appreciate the detailed analysis provided in each chapter, covering various areas from education to local government. Epstein finds the book to be a thorough examination of Thatcher's impact on British politics, offering a nuanced understanding of her governance style. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to challenge conventional wisdom and provide a fresh perspective on Thatcherism.

Quick quotes

    Insightful book that goes chapter by chapter describing Thatcher's policies in different areas.

    The author knew Thatcher, providing an intimate understanding of her policies.

    The book challenges many truisms about British politics.

ProQuest · IM Stelzer · 1993-01-01
insightful 4.00

The book challenges conventional views on British politics during the Thatcher era, highlighting her unique approach and policies. It is praised for its depth and insight into Thatcher's vision.

IM Stelzer finds The Anatomy of Thatcherism to be a marvelous exploration of Margaret Thatcher's political tenure. They appreciate how the book delves into the nuances of her policies and the moral agenda behind them, rather than just focusing on economic or political theories. Stelzer also notes the book's bold and searching nature, which challenges many truisms about British politics during this period. The reviewer appreciates the detailed analysis and the way it recounts the charges and criticisms leveled against Thatcher, providing a comprehensive understanding of her impact.

Quick quotes

    In her marvelous book, The Anatomy of Thatcherism, Dr. Shirley Robin Letwin recounts the charges of 'energetic philistinism' and 'abrasive vulgarity' leveled against Thatcher.

    The book challenges many truisms about British politics.

    Letwin argues that Thatcherism promoted a moral agenda rather than an economic doctrine or a political theory.

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