In Our Time

In this engaging discussion, Bruce Caldwell, an expert on Friedrich Hayek, alongside Ben Jackson and Melissa Lane, dive into Hayek's influential work, The Road to Serfdom. They explore Hayek's warnings against centralized economic planning and its potential to lead to tyranny. The trio highlights how a 1945 Reader's Digest condensation reshaped public perception, turning Hayek's cautionary tale against socialism into a global phenomenon. They also contrast spontaneous order with state control, emphasizing the vital role of individual knowledge in economic systems.

Join Paul O’Prey, Fran Brearton, and Bob Davis as they dive into the life of Robert Graves, a titan of 20th-century poetry and prose. Discover how Graves viewed poetry as his true calling, even while writing bestsellers like 'I, Claudius.' The conversation explores his tumultuous relationships, the duality of love reflected in his work, and the impact of his traumatic experiences in World War I. Unravel the complex themes of his poetry and the significant influences that shaped his artistic legacy.

Ruth Kinna, a political theory professor, Christopher Phelps, an American studies expert, and Gary Gerstle, an American history professor, discuss the explosive Haymarket Affair of 1886 in Chicago. They explore the labor rights movement's tumultuous backdrop, focusing on the fight for an eight-hour workday and anarchism's role in the protests. The discussion reveals the tragic executions of key figures, the emergence of May Day, and the enduring legacy of the incident on labor activism and societal change.

Toby Wiseman, a Professor of Theoretical Physics, Katy Clough, a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics, and Andrew Pontzen, a Professor of Cosmology, dive into the intriguing concept of wormholes as potential shortcuts in the universe. They discuss how these hypothetical structures challenge our understanding of space-time and the fundamental laws of physics. The trio explores the historical context from Einstein to modern theories, considers the exotic matter required for wormhole stability, and even links these ideas to time travel, all while keeping the conversation light and engaging.

Lawrence Goldman, an Emeritus Fellow in History at Oxford, Emily Jones, a Modern British History lecturer at Manchester, and Daisy Hay, a Professor of English Literature, delve into the life of Benjamin Disraeli. They discuss his dual role as Prime Minister and novelist, his contributions to One Nation Conservatism, and the societal themes in his novel 'Sybil.' The trio also explores Disraeli's complex identity, his bond with Queen Victoria, and his long-lasting impact on British politics and literature.

Martha Clokie, a microbiology professor and director of the Centre for Phage Research, James Ebdon, an environmental microbiology expert, and Claas Kirchhelle, a historian focused on phage history, dive into the fascinating world of bacteriophages. They discuss how these viruses target bacteria, offering hope against antibiotic resistance. The guests elaborate on the historical significance and potential medical applications of phages, including their role in disease tracking and environmental impacts, while highlighting the urgent need for further research.

Karen Serres, Senior Curator at the Courtauld Gallery, Frances Fowle, Professor of Nineteenth-Century Art, and Jackie Wullschläger, Chief Art Critic for the Financial Times, delve into Monet’s transformative experiences in London. They discuss how war drove him to the city and the subsequent commercial success that influenced his iconic Thames paintings. The guests highlight his fascination with fog and light, the evolution of his style, and his quest for artistic identity, illustrating how London reshaped his Impressionist vision.

In this discussion, Monima Chadha, a Professor of Indian Philosophy at Oxford, delves into the fascinating doctrine of Karma, tracing its origins in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. She explores how our actions shape not only our present but future lives, emphasizing the importance of intention. The conversation delves into concepts of free will, ethical implications, and the cyclical nature of existence, contrasting Hindu beliefs with Buddhist impermanence. With layered insights, the complexities of karma as a moral framework come to light.

Judith Hawley, an expert in 18th-century literature, Henry Power, a scholar of Fielding's works, and Charlotte Roberts, a literature associate professor, explore the timeless classic 'Tom Jones' by Henry Fielding. They discuss Fielding's life parallels with Tom's journey, nuanced themes of morality, sexuality, and human nature. The guests delve into the humor and storytelling that define this novel while dissecting character complexities, especially Allworthy's duality, and emphasizing its relevance to modern society's challenges.

Judith Jesch, a Professor of Viking Studies, and Jane Harrison, an expert in Orkney and Viking archaeology, dive deep into the fascinating Orkneyinga Saga. They discuss the saga's blend of myth and history, the significance of artefacts in understanding Viking culture, and Orkney's role as a maritime power. The conversation touches on the mysterious Icelander who penned the saga and the societal transition from raiding to settlement seen through the story of Svein Aslífsson. Their insights reveal the rich tapestry of Viking life and legacy in Orkney.