Join Andrew Doyle, a sharp satirist known for free speech advocacy, alongside classicist Edith Hall and comedian Rob Newman. They dive into the balance between indulgence and moderation, discussing ancient Greek concepts and modern implications of excess. Rupert Read addresses climate activism's urgent needs, while Naomi Paxton explores the suffragette movement. They tackle the challenges of political polarization, the complexities of free speech, and the evolving boundaries of satire, offering insights on when to know enough is enough.
The podcast emphasizes the historical philosophical debate on excess versus moderation, highlighting how ancient Greek narratives inform contemporary consumption behaviors.
Epicureanism is redefined in the discussion as a philosophy promoting serene living and balance, contrasting with modern misconceptions of hedonism.
The dialogue on comedy showcases the delicate balance creators must maintain between provocative expression and respect for audience sensitivities amid changing societal norms.
Deep dives
The Dilemma of Excess
The discussion focuses on the nature of excess and restraint across various aspects of life, moving beyond just holiday indulgence. Participants highlight how cultures have historically grappled with ideas of moderation, particularly through classical mythology and philosophy. For example, classic Greek narratives often portray characters like Achilles, whose extreme actions illustrate the consequences of going too far. These stories serve as a basis for exploring contemporary contexts of excess, from consumption to social behaviors.
Epicureanism and Pleasure
The podcast delves into Epicureanism, emphasizing a misunderstood philosophy that advocates for a tranquil life free from disturbances, rather than the indulgence we often associate with it today. Epicurus is described as aiming for 'ataraxia', or a state of serene calmness, which stands in stark contrast to modern interpretations of hedonism. This understanding calls for a balanced pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of overindulgence. The conversation reflects on how even ancient philosophies resonate with today's societal challenges regarding consumption and happiness.
Political Excess and Restraint
The conversation shifts to the realm of politics, with a focus on how extreme actions such as those by political activist groups can have unintended consequences. Discussants explore the balance between radical activism and achieving widespread acceptance for social movements, such as climate action through more moderate approaches. The idea is articulated that while some excess can catalyze change, a sustained impact often requires broader, more inclusive tactics. Examples from movements like Extinction Rebellion highlight the complexity of navigating actions deemed excessive by the public.
Art and Comedy's Boundaries
The podcast explores the landscape of comedy and art, questioning how far creators can push boundaries without crossing into offensive territory. Comedians are challenged to balance their provocative material with respect for their audiences, as the nature of humor evolves. Discussions touch on the shift away from certain taboo topics in stand-up, reflecting a society increasingly aware of the implications of comedy in various social contexts. The importance of maintaining a space for creative expression while being mindful of its impact becomes a central theme.
Social Media and Free Speech
Lastly, the podcast addresses the implications of social media on free speech, particularly in light of recent changes by platforms like Meta. Participants unpack the tension between promoting unrestricted dialogue and managing harmful misinformation, with examples of how misinformation can lead to real-world consequences, especially regarding climate action. The challenge of defining the limits of free speech is debated, instigating a discourse on responsibility and accountability in public forums. The conversation underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of free expression in the digital age.
What tactics are justified in political campaigning from suffragettes to climate action? When is an art work finished? Do the moderation of Aristotle and Epicurus offer us a way of navigating life? Christmas - a time for panto, over-eating and gaudy decorations - was your festive season overwhelming or excessive?
The writer and broadcaster Andrew Doyle, the classicist Edith Hall, comedian Rob Newman, environmentalist Rupert Read, and performer and suffrage historian Naomi Paxton join Shahidha Bari to discuss when enough is enough, knowing when to stop and how far should free speech go.
Producer: Lisa Jenkinson
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