The Enigmatic Allure of Secret Societies

In 2014, Lydia Laurenson moved to San Francisco. As she struggled to find her place and her people in a new city, one mysterious invitation changed everything. After a compelling - if slightly bizarre - induction, she was welcomed into a secretive and exclusive group called The Latitude. Their aim? To experience life more creatively.

There’s something undeniably powerful about being chosen. For centuries, secret societies have perfected a mix of mystery, camaraderie, and selectiveness. And that taps into something deeply human - the need to belong. From secret childhood clubs to private online groups, we’ve always created small, hidden worlds that feel like they’re just for us.

Today, we ask what it is about being on the inside of something hidden that makes us feel seen. With writer Lydia Laurenson, Professor of History Rick Spence, and British author Tiffany Jenkins.

Presenter: Matthew Syed Producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten Editor: Hannah Marshall Sound Design and Mix: Mark Pittam Theme music by Ioana Selaru A Novel production for BBC Radio 4.