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
Sep 27, 2012 • 42min
The Ontological Argument
Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Ontological Argument. In the eleventh century St Anselm of Canterbury proposed that it was possible to prove the existence of God using reason alone. His argument was ridiculed by some of his contemporaries, but was analysed and improved by later thinkers including Descartes, Spinoza and Leibniz. Other philosophers have been less kind, with the Enlightenment thinker David Hume offering one possible refutation. But the debate continued, fuelled by interventions from such heavyweights as Immanuel Kant and Kurt Gödel; and it remains one of the most discussed problems in philosophy.With:John Haldane
Professor of Philosophy at the University of St AndrewsPeter Millican
Professor of Philosophy at the University of OxfordClare Carlisle
Lecturer in Philosophy of Religion at King's College LondonProducer: Thomas Morris.
Sep 20, 2012 • 42min
The Druids
The podcast delves into the mysterious world of Druids, their historical clash with Romans, the revival of Druidism in the 17th century, and the controversial archaeological findings hinting at sacrificial rituals by Druids. It explores their enigmatic language, leadership roles, and their mystical connection between gods and men.
Sep 13, 2012 • 42min
The Cell
Melvyn Bragg and guests explore the history and evolution of cells, from the first single-celled organisms to complex multicellular beings. They discuss the origins of cells on Earth, the three types of cells, the significance of cell membranes, the evolution of eukaryotic cells, and the process of protein synthesis. The conversation delves into cell specialization, evolutionary progressions, and the vital role cells play in sustaining life on our planet.
Jul 12, 2012 • 42min
Hadrian's Wall
Melvyn Bragg and guests delve into the mysteries and history of Hadrian's Wall, discussing its construction by Emperor Hadrian, its defensive purpose, and the economic impact on Roman Britain. The podcast explores the life of Hadrian, the transformation of tribal settlements into Roman towns, and the decision to build the Antonine Wall. Discover the significance and legacy of this iconic World Heritage Site.
Jul 5, 2012 • 42min
Scepticism
Discover the roots of skepticism from ancient Greece, its influence on Renaissance thinkers, and its impact on Enlightenment debates. Explore the evolution of skepticism from antiquity to modernity, including insights on David Hume's philosophical contributions. Delve into Hume's struggles with induction and skepticism, and examine skepticism's influence on scientific and political thought in the 17th century.
Jun 28, 2012 • 42min
Al-Kindi
Explore the intellectual and cultural advancements of Al-Kindi in 9th Century Baghdad, his translation work from Greek philosophy, his impact on Arabic numerals, and the bridging of philosophy and theology. Discover his noble lineage, struggles with rivals, and legacy in shaping philosophical discourse.
Jun 21, 2012 • 42min
Annie Besant
Annie Besant, a 19th-century social reformer, advocated for women's rights, workers' conditions, birth control, and Indian self-rule. The podcast discusses her pivotal role in the Bryant and May match girls' strike, her transition to Theosophy, and her leadership in the Indian National Congress.
Jun 14, 2012 • 42min
James Joyce's Ulysses
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss James Joyce's Ulysses, a groundbreaking novel banned for its sexual content. They explore Joyce's early years, influences, and the evolution of Ulysses. The podcast delves into the characters, narrative styles, and chaos in modernist literature inspired by Joyce's innovative work.
Jun 7, 2012 • 42min
King Solomon
Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the biblical king Solomon, celebrated for his wisdom and as the architect of the First Temple in Jerusalem. According to the Old Testament account of his life, Solomon was chosen as his father David's successor as Israelite king, and instead of praying for long life or wealth asked God for wisdom. In the words of the Authorised Version, "And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom." Solomon is an important figure in Judaism, Islam and Christianity alike, and is also credited with the authorship of several scriptural texts. His name is associated with the tradition of wisdom literature and with a large number of myths and legends. For many centuries Solomon was seen as the archetypal enlightened monarch, and his example influenced notions of kingship from the Middle Ages onwards.With:Martin PalmerDirector of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and CulturePhilip AlexanderEmeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of ManchesterKatharine DellSenior Lecturer in Old Testament Studies at the University of Cambridge, and Fellow of St Catherine's College, CambridgeProducer: Thomas Morris.
May 31, 2012 • 42min
The Trojan War
Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Trojan War, one of the best known events of Greek mythology. According to the traditional version of the story, the war began when a Trojan prince, Paris, eloped with the Spartan queen Helen. A Greek army besieged Troy for ten years before the city was finally overrun and destroyed. Some of the most familiar names of Greek mythology are associated with the war, including Achilles and Hector, Odysseus and Helen of Troy - and it has also given us the story of the Trojan Horse.The war is the backdrop for Homer's epic poem The Iliad, and features in many other works from classical antiquity. For centuries it was assumed to be a mythical event. But in the nineteenth century a series of archaeological discoveries provided startling evidence that Troy might really have existed, leading some scholars to conclude that there could even be some truth behind the myth. So does the Trojan War story have any basis in fact? And why has it proved such an enduring legend?With:Edith HallProfessor of Classics at King's College LondonEllen AdamsLecturer in Classical Art and Archaeology at King's College LondonSusan SherrattLecturer in Archaeology at the University of SheffieldProducer: Thomas Morris.
