This is the first of a three-part series presented from a personal viewpoint in which Professor Matthew Flinders challenges fashionable political cynicism and presents the case for defending politics.

In this episode he explores the 'expectations gap' between the challenges an inconsistent and demanding public pose for politicians and what they can reasonably be expected to deliver. Interviewees include Tony Blair and John Bercow.

Matthew Flinders is Professor of Politics at Sheffield University.

Producer: Martin Rosenbaum. Show less