On the radar: empty chair

In terms of the dictionary definition, the term empty-chairing refers to an individual making a statement to the group with whom they were working by failing to attend an event and leaving their seat unoccupied. Empty-chairing has also been used as a phrase in the past to denote a style of debate where one person argues with a chair as a representation of the other individual with whom they disagree politically. For example, think of Clint Eastwood arguing with a chair set out to stand in for Barack Obama.

But is the rise of the empty chair only due to a lack of respect for elected officials? Could it also be that – in the age of tightly controlled political sound bites – politicians are more likely to avoid conflict, and situations where they may be challenged and exposed?

A new meaning of the phrase empty-chairing is emerging, and it describes an interaction between media and politicians. Specifically, it is being used to showcase the fact that the political figure has declined to participate in the media’s invitation to engage with an audience. Theresa May, who is the current British prime minister, is unwilling to attend upcoming debates, so media representatives may highlight her absence by setting out an unoccupied chair.

Key Takeaways:

Roy Hattersley was replaced with a tub of lard for an interview in June 1993.

This was an example of empty chairing.

Empty chairing is the practice of deliberately drawing attention to someone who no shows for a scheduled event.

Author: Oxford Dictionary

Author Quote “

The practice of ‘empty-chairing’ reflects a changing attitude towards politicians (and, indeed, many other formerly feared and respected figures of authority), and the emergence of a more aggressive form of journalism.

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