As Theresa May’s deal emits its last gasp, Remainers and Leavers continue their bitter war of words, fuelled by the media – “Brexit Party finances get shake-down” for some is “Attack on Farage is Affront to Democracy” for others. Corbyn’s appeal to both sides of the divide has failed as voters retreat into their corners. But even within the Remainer camp, tribal allegiances and resentments are running high, facilitated by social media. The complicated voting mechanics of the European Elections have led some to react angrily to suggestions of tactical voting, intended (it’s argued) to maximise Remain candidate chances.

The country is at an impasse. Life feels fraught and judgement is everywhere. Those with different views seem to be talking past each other and common ground has never appeared further away. A great example of this was John Humphrys’ recent interview of Green MP Caroline Lucas, during which he doggedly and repeatedly ignored her case for Remain as necessary for climate action. He simply wasn’t listening. We are seeing a vicious circle in which argumentative attacks make us cling ever more desperately to our tribes. This “fetish of assertion” [1] makes losers of us all.

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