What predicts a riot?

Nobody predicted the August riots across the UK. Many thinkers and commentators, nef included, have been warning of the risks posed to society by unemployment and poor quality jobs, the disenfranchisement of youth, public sector spending cuts, and growing anger against the elites. But no-one predicted that it would bubble over and express itself in the form of looting, burning and rioting across England’s cities, resulting in the deaths of four people.

nef does not claim to have the answer to why the riots happened. Nor do we offer a knee-jerk response to what should be done about it.

Instead a number of nef's researchers have written blogs that comment on the different aspects of the riots and the implications for public policy. We will continue to contribute observations and ideas, and through this play our part in the ongoing dialogue.

Image by hughepaul via Flickr