Adam Curtis, a renowned filmmaker and journalist, explores the intricate relationship between ideas, emotions, and societal transformations in his latest series of films titled 'Shifty.' Drawing from the extensive archives of the BBC, Curtis focuses on how the policies of Margaret Thatcher's government reshaped Britain by shifting power towards the financial sector and fostering a culture of radical individualism. This transformation, he argues, has fundamentally altered the fabric of society and contributed to a pervasive sense of disempowerment and melancholy among the populace. Curtis's work aims to illuminate these feelings and their origins, showcasing how the ideologies of the 1980s continue to resonate in contemporary life.
In a recent podcast conversation with journalist Michael Safi, Curtis elaborates on the themes of his films, emphasizing the importance of understanding the emotional weight of ideas. He posits that the feelings of powerlessness prevalent in today's society can be traced back to the ideological shifts initiated in the past. Curtis advocates for the exploration of new ideas as essential for forging a different and more hopeful future. By addressing the emotional undercurrents tied to historical events and policies, he believes that society can begin to envision alternative paths forward, moving away from the despair and stagnation that characterize much of modern life. Curtis's insights offer a thought-provoking analysis of how our current realities are shaped by the past, and highlight the potential for change through the reimagining of ideas.
