In Our Time

Natalya Benkhaled-Vince, an Associate Professor at Oxford specializing in Algerian history, joins Hannah-Louise Clark, a Senior Lecturer at Glasgow focused on global economic history. They delve into the Mokrani Revolt of 1871, discussing its origins, the socio-political climate of colonial Algeria, and the harsh French suppression. The revolt marked a pivotal shift in national identity and resistance, inspiring future movements. The guests highlight the cultural and economic impact, emphasizing the lasting legacy of this struggle against colonial rule.

Fay Dowker, a Professor of Theoretical Physics, and Harry Cliff, a Research Fellow in Particle Physics, dive into the revolutionary ideas of Werner Heisenberg. They discuss the Uncertainty Principle and how it reshaped our understanding of atomic behavior. The duo explores Heisenberg's early life and his groundbreaking paper that laid the foundation for quantum mechanics, contrasting his theories with those of Schrödinger. They also touch on Heisenberg's moral dilemmas amidst the rise of Nazism, and the ongoing quest to reconcile quantum mechanics with general relativity.

Joining the discussion are Stephen Bowd, a Professor of Early Modern History, Jessica Goethals, an Associate Professor of Italian, and Catherine Fletcher, a Professor of History. They delve into the chaotic 1527 Sack of Rome, exploring the geopolitical ambitions behind it and the horrific consequences faced by its citizens. The conversation reveals the shocking complicity of locals in the looting and examines the devastating impact on artistic heritage. The guests also reflect on the broader cultural ramifications, including the suffering of the Jewish community during this tumultuous period.

Franziska Kohlt, a Lewis Carroll expert, and Kiera Vaclavik, a professor of Children's Literature, explore the enchanting world of 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.' They discuss Carroll's childhood inspirations and how his upbringing shaped the whimsical narrative. Listeners learn about the book's iconic characters and their societal implications, reflecting on childhood versus authority. The conversation highlights the lasting influence of Alice in global culture, showcasing her transcendent legacy in literature, theater, and beyond.

In this engaging discussion, guests Sadaf Farooqi, a metabolism expert from Cambridge, Rebecca Reynolds, a metabolic medicine specialist from Edinburgh, and Andrew Bicknell, a biological sciences associate professor from Reading, delve into the fascinating world of hormones. They explore over 80 types of hormones that regulate everything from metabolism to stress responses. The conversation highlights how these chemical messengers influence pregnancy, mood swings during puberty and menopause, and even our fight-or-flight reactions, revealing the profound impact of hormones on our daily lives.

Justyna Wubs-Mrozewicz, an expert in medieval history, Georg Christ, a specialist in early modern history, and Sheila Ogilvie, a renowned economic historian, dive into the fascinating world of the Hanseatic League. They explore its monumental impact on trade in Northern Europe, including its influence from Iceland to Novgorod. Discussion highlights the League's rise and fall, the interaction between Hansa merchants and English traders, and how religion shaped merchant identities. They also touch on how climate change affected trading practices and the balance between innovation and tradition.

Tim Crane, a Professor of Philosophy, joins fellow philosophers Joanna Leidenhag and Philip Goff to delve into the intriguing concept of panpsychism, which suggests consciousness exists in all matter. They explore how this theory contrasts with materialist views, presenting a third perspective on consciousness. The discussion touches upon thought experiments, the relationship between consciousness and the material world, and the implications of panpsychism on both philosophical and theological contexts, aiming to bridge various beliefs about the essence of existence.

Aidan Dodson, an Honorary Professor of Egyptology, Joyce Tyldesley, a Professor known for her expertise in ancient culture, and Kate Spence, a Senior Lecturer in Egyptian Archaeology, dive into the captivating world of Nefertiti. They explore the iconic bust's mysterious discovery and its global impact. The discussion also unpacks Nefertiti's role during Akhenaten's reign, the complexities of her legacy, and how religious shifts impacted ancient Egyptian society. The interplay of art, power, and lineage reveals layers of intrigue surrounding this legendary queen.

Rachel Hammersley, a Professor of Intellectual History, Richard Whatmore, a Professor of Modern History, and Tom Hopkins, a Senior Teaching Associate, dive into the life and ideas of Nicolas de Condorcet, a prominent figure of the French Enlightenment. They discuss Condorcet's unwavering commitment to social progress, equal rights, and the abolition of slavery. His ambitious visions of human perfectibility and republican governance amid the chaos of the French Revolution reveal the powerful influence his work continues to have on modern thought.

Pascale Aebischer, Michael Dobson, and Emma Smith dive into the complexities of Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night,' exploring themes of love, identity, and desire. They discuss the intriguing relationships between characters, like the disguises that lead to misunderstandings. The dark humor surrounding Malvolio's humiliation is intricately examined, alongside the festive backdrop of Illyria. The guests also connect the play's themes to early 17th-century London, highlighting how societal norms like Puritanism shape its comedic elements.