When They Go Low, We Go High: Speeches That Shape the World – and Why We Need Them

A TIMES BOOK OF THE YEAR

‘For all those who believe in the politics of principle and hope this a wonderful reminder that they do not always lose. For all those who despair that politics can ever be inspiring again this is a must-read to shake you out of your misery’ Paddy Ashdown

‘By the people, for the people’
‘I have the heart and stomach of a king’
‘We shall never surrender’

The right words at the right time can shape history.

By analysing twenty-five of the greatest speeches ever given – delivered by iconic figures from Elizabeth I to John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama – Philip Collins tells the story of democracy. For it is through the finest words spoken in public that progress unfolds.

When They Go Low, We Go High is a passionate defence of the power of public speaking, and an urgent – and timely – reminder of how words can change the world.

‘For all those who believe in the politics of principle and hope, this is a wonderful reminder that they do not always lose. For all those who despair that politics can ever be inspiring again, this is a must read to shake you out of your miser’ Paddy Ashdown