Neville Morley

Guests Luke Kemp, a researcher on existential risks, and Peter Hitchens, a conservative journalist, share insights on societal collapse's past and future implications. They explore real human responses to disasters, contrasting chaos with acts of collective kindness. Neville Morley discusses historical perspectives, while Phil Tinline analyzes the impact of fear on politics. Rhiannon Firth highlights grassroots movements like Occupy Sandy, emphasizing that crises reveal systemic inequalities. The group debates whether today's challenges are unique and the role of technology in escalation.

Join classics experts Katharine Earnshaw, Neville Morley, and Diana Spencer as they explore Virgil's 'Georgics'—a remarkable blend of farming manual and philosophical treatise. They discuss its intricate connections between agriculture and post-civil war politics in Rome, exploring the significance of rural life and land ownership. The conversation highlights the symbolism of bees as reflections of civil unrest and examines Virgil’s Epicurean influences, making his insights relevant to today's environmental challenges.

Dr. Neville Morley, a historian and author of The Roman Empire: Roots of Imperialism, dives into the brutal yet fascinating world of ancient Roman gladiators. He unpacks the life of Flammer, revealing the harsh realities hidden behind the myths. The discussion includes gladiatorial types, rivalries, and the infamous Spartacus' revolt against oppression. Morley also illuminates the games' evolution and cultural significance, while examining why these spectacles eventually declined. It's a captivating look at a complex society through its warriors.