In Our Time
BBC Radio 4
Spanning history, religion, culture, science and philosophy, In Our Time from BBC Radio 4 is essential listening for the intellectually curious. In each episode, host Melvyn Bragg and expert guests explore the characters, events and discoveries that have shaped our world.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nerfertiti. Or perhaps you’re looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism’s early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you’re interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity’s cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato’s concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nerfertiti. Or perhaps you’re looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism’s early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you’re interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity’s cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato’s concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 26, 1998 • 28min
Work in the 20th Century
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the changing nature of work practices and the work ethic as it pertains at the end of the 20th century. Has our understanding of the nature and function of work really changed so radically since the beginning of the century? How can the past inform the future in the rapidly changing work environment? Has technology usurped craftsmanship, or is this no more than a superficial reading of an increasingly complex scene?With Professor Richard Sennett, visiting professor, London School for Economics and author of The Corrosion of Character - the Personal Consequences of Work in the New Capitalism; Theodore Zeldin, historian and Fellow of St Anthony’s College, Oxford; Melanie Phillips, columnist on The Sunday Times and currently working on a book about The Sex Change State.
16 snips
Nov 19, 1998 • 28min
The Brain and Consciousness
Stephen Rose, a Professor of Biology and expert in memory mechanisms, and Dan Robinson, a distinguished philosophy professor with a focus on psychology's intellectual history, delve into fascinating discussions about the brain and consciousness. They explore the complex relationship between the brain and mind, touching on ethical dilemmas in criminal behavior grounded in neuroscience. Additionally, they challenge the 'selfish gene' theory and navigate philosophical questions regarding the soul, providing a rich tapestry of insights into human nature and behavior.
13 snips
Nov 12, 1998 • 28min
The City in the 20th Century
Exploring the evolution of cities in the 20th century with guests Professor Doreen Massey and Sir Peter Hall. Topics include cities as hubs of creativity, the impact of globalization and telecommunications, unique urban forms like Silicon Valley, and the role of politics and democracy in city development.
19 snips
Nov 5, 1998 • 28min
Science in the 20th century
Renowned broadcaster Melvyn Bragg discusses how science in the 20th century shifted from certainty to doubt, integrating with philosophy and social sciences. The podcast explores the limitations of science, importance of doubt, unity in scientific knowledge, reductionism vs. complexity, and the nature of consciousness in relation to artificial intelligence.
8 snips
Oct 29, 1998 • 28min
Science's Revelations
Richard Dawkins, an evolutionary biologist known for his advocacy of science, and Ian McEwan, celebrated novelist and Booker Prize winner, engage in a thought-provoking discussion. They explore how scientific knowledge impacts our appreciation of the world's beauty and how poetry can enrich scientific understanding. The conversation delves into the interconnections between imagination and science, questioning the purpose of existence while addressing human awareness in an indifferent universe. Their insights challenge listeners to reconsider the harmony of science and art.
10 snips
Oct 22, 1998 • 28min
Politics in the 20th Century
American writer Gore Vidal and historian Alan Clarke discuss the future of nation-states, the relationship between politics and morality, and the chaos of the 20th century. They touch on societal evolution, economic fears, chaos in warfare, pursuit of weapons of mass destruction, and the role of key figures in shaping history.
13 snips
Oct 15, 1998 • 28min
War in the 20th Century
Michael Ignatieff and Sir Michael Howard discuss warfare, human rights, and the life of philosopher Isaiah Berlin. Topics include Just War theory, responsibility for fellow human beings, prospects for world peace, and the impact of technology on conflict. The podcast explores Berlin's views on liberty, individual choice, nationalism, and liberalism in the context of 20th-century ideologies and historical shifts from optimism to existential dread.
