The legacy of Margaret Thatcher

I have to be careful on this one but here goes...

First thing's first; former PM Margaret Thatcher has died. You've probably heard already, but just in case I'd better make it clear what I'm talking about. Many of the reports on her death and subsequent media discussions have used the word 'divisive' to describe her. Personally I can think of no politician in my lifetime who has so elicited such profound adoration and hatred. Your own reaction to the death of Margaret Thatcher may be indifference. I strongly suspect that your reactions, should you have one at all, will be governed partly by your political leanings, your age and more personal values.

To those of you who are bemused by the vitriol and adoration which has spewed forth since her death I'd like to guide you towards just a couple of issues (with appropriate links) which occurred during her tenure.
The first of these was the Poll Tax Riots in 1990 which is widely considered to be the beginning of the end for her Premiership. In addition there was the residual anger left over from the Section 28 legislation which banned the 'promotion' of homosexuality in schools. David Cameron apologised for this undertaking in 2009.

As a student of the social sciences (I'm making an assumption here) you may well have a view on her assumption that, "there's no such thing as society". The providence of this quote has been fought over for many years, so can I suggest you listen here (fast forward to 50 minutes and 30 seconds if you want to go straight to the piece) to hear an interview with the journalist who Margaret Thatcher actually gave this quote to.

It's a fascinating insight into her values and also how words, when taken in isolation, can be used to subtly alter an intended meaning.

We have lots of books in the library on the history of British politics and Margaret Thatcher will be mentioned in all of them, which pretty much demonstrates her significance no matter you may think of her personally. I'd suggest browsing the shelves at 320.941.

If you'd like any other recommendations then just ask.