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
37 snips
Jun 3, 2021 • 53min
Kant's Copernican Revolution
Fiona Hughes, Senior Lecturer at the University of Essex, Anil Gomes, Associate Professor at Trinity College, Oxford, and John Cullinan, Senior Lecturer at King's College London, dive into Immanuel Kant's groundbreaking ideas. They discuss Kant's revolutionary viewpoint, paralleling it with Copernicus's astronomical shift. The conversation covers how the mind shapes our experience of reality, the tension between rationalism and empiricism, and the limitations of human understanding. Their analysis reveals the profound impact of Kant's work on contemporary philosophy.
7 snips
May 27, 2021 • 52min
The Interregnum
Clare Jackson, a Senior Tutor at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge, Micheál Ó Siochrú, a Modern History Professor at Trinity College Dublin, and Laura Stewart, an Early Modern History expert at the University of York, dive into the tumultuous Interregnum period. They discuss the radical political shifts following Charles I's execution and Cromwell's controversial invasion of Ireland. The complexities of Scotland's political allegiance to Charles II are examined, alongside Cromwell's legacy and the pivotal role of General Monk in restoring monarchy, shedding light on lasting impacts across Britain.
4 snips
May 20, 2021 • 52min
Journey to the West
Julia Lovell, a Professor of Modern Chinese History and Literature, and Chiung-yun Evelyn Liu, an Associate Research Fellow specializing in Chinese literature, dive into the beloved Ming dynasty novel, 'Journey to the West.' They discuss the vibrant cultural backdrop of 16th-century China that inspired its creation. The duo explores the complex relationships between Monkey, Tripitaka, and their companions, highlighting themes of human flaws, enlightenment, and cultural exchange. Their insights reveal the character of Monkey as a symbol of defiance and the novel's lasting impact across different eras.
May 13, 2021 • 50min
Longitude
Join Rebekah Higgitt, Principal Curator of Science at National Museums Scotland, Jim Bennett, Keeper Emeritus at the Science Museum, and Simon Schaffer, Professor at the University of Cambridge, as they delve into the breathtaking quest for determining longitude at sea. Discover how visionary clockmaker John Harrison revolutionized navigation with his chronometers. Explore the collaborative efforts of scientists and mariners that shaped navigation history and the crucial milestones that enabled safe maritime exploration. A riveting look into human ingenuity!
May 6, 2021 • 57min
The Second Barons' War
David Carpenter, a medieval history expert from King’s College London, joins Louise Wilkinson and Sophie Thérèse Ambler, both renowned scholars in medieval studies, to discuss the turbulent Second Barons' War. They delve into Simon de Montfort's rise, his influential reforms for parliamentary representation, and the dark side of his legacy, including violent anti-Semitism. The conversation highlights pivotal events like the Provisions of Oxford and the Battle of Evesham, exploring how personal feuds and political strife shaped England's governance and social landscape.
Apr 29, 2021 • 50min
Ovid
Maria Wyke, a Professor of Latin at University College London, and Dunstan Lowe, a Senior Lecturer in Latin Literature at the University of Kent, dive into the life of the infamous Roman poet Ovid. They discuss his influential works, especially 'Metamorphoses' and 'The Art of Love', and the scandal that led to his exile. The conversation explores Ovid's unique storytelling on transformation, his innovative approach to love poetry, and how his time in exile reshaped his writing, revealing deeper emotional layers and a poignant legacy.
Apr 22, 2021 • 51min
The Franco-American Alliance 1778
Frank Cogliano, a Professor of American History, Kathleen Burk, a Professor Emerita specializing in modern history, and Michael Rapport, an expert in European history, dive deep into the transformative 1778 Franco-American alliance. They discuss France's motivation for supporting the American Revolution and its subsequent financial strains that fueled the French Revolution. The conversation also touches on America's tricky diplomacy amidst renewed Franco-British conflict, the influence of Benjamin Franklin, and the evolving dynamics surrounding slavery and revolutionary fervor.
Apr 15, 2021 • 50min
Arianism
Judith Herrin, an expert in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies, joins Robin Whelan, who specializes in Mediterranean history, to discuss Arianism's fascinating journey through the 4th century. They explore how the Ostrogoths, Vandals, and Visigoths adopted this form of Christianity from Roman missionaries. The duo highlights the theological tensions ignited by Arius and the infamous Council of Nicaea, alongside Theoderic's role in a predominantly Catholic Italy. Their discussion unveils Arianism's shift from an orthodox view to a heretical status, impacting Christian history profoundly.
Apr 8, 2021 • 48min
Pierre-Simon Laplace
Join Marcus du Sautoy, Timothy Gowers, and Colva Roney-Dougal as they delve into the genius of Pierre-Simon Laplace, who revolutionized mathematics and science during and after the French Revolution. They explore his groundbreaking contributions to probability, the stability of the solar system, and his provocative idea of determinism, suggesting that complete knowledge of the universe could predict all future events. The discussion also covers Laplace's role in developing the metric system and the philosophical implications of his work, including his stance on free will.
Apr 1, 2021 • 49min
The Russo-Japanese War
Simon Dixon, an expert in Russian history, Naoko Shimazu, a specialist in Japanese society, and Oleg Benesch, a reader in modern history, delve into the tumultuous Russo-Japanese War. They discuss Japan's audacious attack on Port Arthur, igniting global tensions, and how rapid modernization transformed its military and society. The conversation highlights Russia's naval mishaps, the clash of honor and duty among Japanese soldiers, and the war's lasting impact on national identity and anti-colonial sentiment in Japan.
