The alleged attack on independent MP Helen Haines this week has sparked a debate about the tone of political discourse in Australia. The prime minister pleaded for all to 'turn the temperature' down, but it didn't take long for many to dial it right up, particularly online.
Examining the Response
Tony Barry and George Megalogenis, filling in for Barrie Cassidy on the Back to Back Barries podcast, examined the response to the horrific alleged attack on Haines. They questioned whether politicians from all sides can tell their tribes to tone down the rhetoric.
Lessons from History
The discussion also explored what lessons can be learned from history to help navigate toxic public debate. The podcast invited listeners to email the show at backtobackbarries@theguardian.com.
