Powerful and the Damned: Private Diaries in Turbulent Times

Lionel Barber was the Editor of the Financial Times during a pivotal time in world history, including the tech boom, global financial crisis, rise of China, Brexit, and the fight for survival of mainstream media in the age of fake news. This diary offers a unique insight into high-level decision-making and political calculation, featuring private meetings with political leaders, conversations with billionaire bankers, and exchanges with Silicon Valley tech gurus. It provides a fascinating and at times scathing portrait of power in our modern age, featuring close encounters with Trump, Cameron, Blair, Putin, Merkel, and Mohammed Bin Salman.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 08 July 2021
Publisher: Ebury Publishing

Lionel Barber, the esteemed Editor of the Financial Times, has penned a captivating and insightful diary that delves into the pivotal moments of recent history. Spanning the tech boom, the global financial crisis, the rise of China, Brexit, and the challenges faced by mainstream media in the age of fake news, Barber's diary offers a unique perspective on the world of power and politics.

As Editor of the Financial Times, Barber had the privilege of engaging in confidential conversations with influential figures across the globe. These diaries provide a glimpse into the high-level decision-making and political calculations that shape our world, often in times of crisis. From private meetings with political leaders on the eve of referendums to conversations with billionaire bankers navigating economic meltdowns, Barber's diary captures the essence of leadership in an era of upheaval.

What sets this diary apart is Barber's candid and unflinching portrayal of power in our modern age. He sheds light on the individuals who hold it, the qualities they possess, and the motivations that drive them. Through his encounters with political leaders such as Trump, Cameron, Blair, Putin, Merkel, and Mohammed Bin Salman, as well as many others, Barber offers a rare and intimate portrait of the people who continue to shape our world.

This diary is not just a recounting of historical events; it is a thought-provoking exploration of the power dynamics that govern our lives. Barber questions the distribution of power, the influence of money and media, and the ethical considerations that arise in the pursuit of power. He raises important questions about the role of journalists in reporting the truth and the responsibilities of leaders in serving the greater good.

In addition to his insights into power, Barber's diary also provides a fascinating window into the media landscape of our time. He discusses the challenges faced by mainstream media in the age of digital disruption and the need for innovation and adaptation. Barber advocates for a more responsible and ethical media industry that can provide accurate and unbiased coverage of important events.

Overall, Lionel Barber's diary is a must-read for anyone interested in politics, economics, and the media. It offers a unique perspective on the world of power and provides valuable insights into the individuals and events that shape our global landscape. Through his candid and insightful writing, Barber challenges us to think critically about the power we wield and the responsibilities we hold in our hands.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780753558201