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
Dec 29, 2011 • 42min
Macromolecules
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the giant molecules that form the basis of all life. Macromolecules, also known as polymers, are long chains of atoms. They form the proteins that make up our bodies, as well as many of the materials of modern life. Man's ability to mimic the structure of macromolecules has led to the invention of plastics such as nylon, paints and adhesives. Most of our clothes are made of macromolecules, and our food is macromolecular. The medical sciences are making increasingly sophisticated use of macromolecules, from growing replacement skin and bone to their increasing use in drug delivery. One of the most famous macromolecules is DNA, an infinitely more complex polymer than man has ever managed to produce. We've only known about macromolecules for just over a century, so what is the story behind them and how might they change our lives in the future?With:Tony RyanPro-Vice Chancellor for the Faculty of Science at the University of SheffieldAthene DonaldProfessor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Robinson CollegeCharlotte WilliamsReader in Polymer Chemistry and Catalysis at Imperial College, London Producer: Natalia Fernandez.
Dec 22, 2011 • 42min
Robinson Crusoe
Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Daniel Defoe's novel Robinson Crusoe. Published in 1719, it was an immediate success and is considered the classic adventure story. There are several incidents that may have inspired the tale, although none of them exactly mirrors Defoe's thrilling yet didactic narrative. The plot is now universally known - the sailor stranded on a desert island who learns to tame the environment and the native population. The character of Friday, Crusoe's trusty companion and servant, has become almost as famous as Crusoe himself and their master-servant relationship forms one of the principal themes in the novel. Robinson Crusoe has been interpreted in myriad ways, from colonial fable to religious instruction manual to capitalist tract; although arguably above all of these, it is perhaps best known today as a children's story. With:Karen O'BrienPro-Vice Chancellor for Education at the University of Birmingham Judith HawleyProfessor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of LondonBob OwensEmeritus Professor of English Literature at the Open UniversityProducer: Natalia Fernandez.
Dec 15, 2011 • 42min
The Concordat of Worms
Explore the parallels between internet power dynamics and historical empires, focusing on the Investiture Controversy and the clash between Church and State power. Delve into the power struggle between Henry IV and Pope Gregory VII, highlighting key events like Henry's excommunication and the Concordat of Worms. Learn how the Concordat created a balance between secular power and papal authority, leading to a brief peace but subsequent conflicts and a papal schism.
13 snips
Dec 8, 2011 • 42min
Heraclitus
Delve into the profound philosophy of Heraclitus, the weeping philosopher, who believed in constant change and the unity of opposites. Explore his enigmatic sayings and his influence on major philosophers like Plato and the Stoics. Unravel the concept of Logos and its implications on human progress. Discover how Heraclitus' ideas continue to shape modern philosophies and enjoy a humorous anecdote about his supposed death.
Dec 1, 2011 • 42min
Christina Rossetti
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss poet Christina Rossetti, exploring her family background, religious themes in her poetry, and her influence on later writers. Topics include her health challenges, the religious themes in Goblin Market, her unique poetic style influenced by tractarian principles, and her portrayal of women in her works.
Nov 24, 2011 • 42min
Judas Maccabeus
Delving into the rebellious spirit of Judas Maccabeus and his fight against the Seleucid Empire for religious freedom. Highlighting the struggles for political independence and the restoration of the Temple of Jerusalem. Exploring the enduring legacy of the Maccabees on Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and European history.
Nov 17, 2011 • 42min
Ptolemy and Ancient Astronomy
Discover the life and works of Ptolemy, his Earth-centered model of the universe, and his influence on astronomy and astrology. Explore the importance of The Handy Tables in ancient astronomy and Ptolemy's emphasis on mathematical precision. Delve into Ptolemy's legacy, views on divinity, and his intricate instruments for astronomical observations. Learn about his planetary theories, astrology versus astronomy, and the eventual shift in astronomical understanding by Copernicus and Kepler.
Nov 10, 2011 • 42min
The Continental-Analytic Split
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Continental-Analytic split in philosophy, exploring the diverging paths of Western thought, the influence of key philosophers like Nietzsche and Heidegger, and the ongoing debate on bridging the gap between the two schools of philosophy.
Nov 3, 2011 • 42min
The Moon
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the origins, science, and mythology of the Moon, exploring its role in human civilization and the ongoing mysteries of its geological formations. They delve into the moon's formation, composition, and historical significance, including the impact of Apollo missions and recent discoveries of water on the Moon. The conversation highlights the moon's cosmic history, scientific potential, and the prospects of lunar colonization.
Oct 27, 2011 • 42min
The Siege of Tenochtitlan
Melvyn Bragg and guests delve into the Siege of Tenochtitlan, discussing the rise and fall of the Aztec Empire, societal dynamics, the impressive city layout, Cortes' ambitious journey, strategic alliances, the devastation caused by smallpox, and the broader repercussions of the fall on indigenous groups and Spanish colonization.
