In a universe governed by physical laws, can individuals be responsible for their actions? Enlightenment philosophers reconciled free will and determinism. Debate remains lively today. Recent scientific developments keep the discussion spirited.

Experts discuss the age of the Universe, from theoretical estimations to cosmic background radiation measurements. Historical evolution of age estimates, from Hubble's expanding universe to present methods. Unraveling cosmic mysteries like dark energy and eventual fate of the universe.

Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Taiping Rebellion.In 1850 a Chinese Christian convert, Hong Xiuquan, proclaimed himself leader of a new dynasty, the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. He and his followers marched against the ruling Qing dynasty, gathering huge support as they went. The ensuing civil war lasted fourteen years; around twenty million people lost their lives in a conflict which eventually involved European as well as Chinese soldiers. The Taiping Rebellion was arguably the most important event to befall China in the 19th century. Chinese nationalists and communists alike have been profoundly influenced by it, and historians believe it shaped modern China in the same way as the First World War shaped modern Europe.Rana MitterProfessor of the History and Politics of Modern China at the University of OxfordFrances WoodHead of the Chinese Section at the British LibraryJulia LovellLecturer in Chinese History at Birkbeck, University of London.Producer: Thomas Morris.

Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work and influence of Maimonides.Widely regarded as the greatest Jewish philosopher of the medieval period, Maimonides was also a physician and rabbinical authority. Also known as Rambam, his writings include a 14-volume work on Jewish law, the Mishneh Torah, which is still widely used today, and the Guide for the Perplexed, a central work of medieval philosophy. Although undoubtedly a titan of Jewish intellectual history, Maimonides was also profoundly influenced by the Islamic world. He exerted a strong influence on later Islamic philosophy, as well as on thinkers ranging from Thomas Aquinas to Leibniz and Newton.With:John HaldaneProfessor of Philosophy at the University of St AndrewsSarah StroumsaAlice and Jack Ormut Professor of Arabic Studies and currently Rector at the Hebrew University of JerusalemPeter AdamsonProfessor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at King's College London.Producer: Thomas Morris.

Exploring the historical evolution and modern advancements in understanding the nervous system, from ancient beliefs to modern neurotransmitter discoveries. Delving into nerve cell structures, reflex reactions, and the role of acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter. Uncovering the research of Hodgkin and Huxley on nerve signal transmission and the importance of sodium and potassium ions in action potentials.

Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Bannockburn.On June 23rd 1314, Scottish forces under their king Robert the Bruce confronted a larger army commanded by the English monarch Edward II at Bannockburn. It was the culmination of a war of independence which had been going on since the English had invaded Scotland in 1296. After eighteen years of intermittent fighting the English had been all but expelled from Scotland: their last stronghold was the castle at Stirling.The Scots won a decisive victory at Bannockburn. The English were routed and their king narrowly escaped capture. Although it took a further 14 years for Scotland to achieve full independence with the 1328 Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton, this was an important triumph; today it remains one of the most discussed moments in the nation's history.With:Matthew StricklandProfessor of Medieval History at the University of GlasgowFiona WatsonHonorary Research Fellow in History at the University of DundeeMichael BrownReader in History at the University of St Andrews Producer: Thomas Morris.

Melvyn Bragg and guests delve into Aristotle's Poetics, exploring its impact on drama, tragedy, and epic poetry. They discuss catharsis, the defense of poetry, and its influence on Hollywood screenwriting. Guests analyze Aristotle's life, Greek culture, and his enduring legacy on literature and philosophy.

Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Mexican Revolution.In 1908 the President of Mexico, Porfirio Diaz, gave an interview to an American journalist. He was 77 and had ruled the country in autocratic fashion for over thirty years. He discussed the country's economic development and spoke of his intention to retire to his country estate after overseeing a transition to multiparty democracy.Things did not turn out quite like that. Two years later Diaz was toppled by a popular uprising. It was the beginning of a tumultuous decade in which different factions fought for supremacy, and power changed hands many times. The conflict completely changed the face of the country, and resulted in the emergence of Mexico's most celebrated folk hero: Emiliano Zapata.With:Alan KnightProfessor of the History of Latin America at the University of OxfordPaul GarnerCowdray Professor of Spanish at the University of LeedsPatience SchellSenior Lecturer in Latin American Cultural Studies at the University of Manchester. Producer: Thomas Morris.

Melvyn Bragg and guests delve into randomness and pseudorandomness, discussing their significance in generating unpredictable numbers. From dice to quantum physics, explore the challenges of finding true randomness and the use of pseudorandomness in statistics, computer science, and cryptography.

Melvyn Bragg and his guests delve into Lord Byron's poem Childe Harold's Pilgrimage, discussing its instant fame, the character of the first Byronic hero, and the snapshot it provides of Europe in the early 19th century. They explore Byron's personal life, childhood struggles, use of satire in response to critics, the significance of the Spenserian stanza, and his rise to fame and scandal. The podcast also covers Byron's fascination with Napoleon, the concept of the Byronic hero, and his lasting impact on European society and culture.