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
46 snips
Apr 25, 2024 • 50min
The Kalevala
Riitta Valijärvi, an expert on Finnish language and culture, Thomas Dubois, a scholar of Scandinavian folklore, and Daniel Abondolo, a comparative epic poetry specialist, explore the impact of The Kalevala. They discuss how Elias Lönnrot’s compilation gave Finns a distinct national identity. The conversation delves into Finnish myths, the Sampo’s significance, and the epic's ties to modern cultural expressions. They also examine the linguistic uniqueness of Finnish poetry and the emotional depth within its narratives, reflecting on its lasting influence.
14 snips
Apr 18, 2024 • 50min
Julian the Apostate
Join experts James Corke-Webster, a Classicist, and Lea Niccolai, a scholar in Christianity and philosophy, as they delve into the life of Julian the Apostate, the last pagan Roman emperor. They discuss Julian's audacious attempts to revive paganism in a predominantly Christian empire and his philosophical evolution influenced by Neoplatonism. The conversation highlights his military exploits, his satirical writings, and the lasting legacy of his complex reign amid ideological battles that shaped the Roman world.
17 snips
Apr 11, 2024 • 52min
The Waltz
Join Susan Jones, an Emeritus Professor of English Literature, Derek B. Scott, a music expert, and Theresa Buckland, a dance historian, as they explore the enchanting world of the waltz. They delve into its revolutionary impact on 19th-century Britain, the intimate connections it fostered among dancers, and its influence on literature and music. The discussion highlights the waltz's sensuality, social dynamics in ballroom culture, and how the captivating showmanship of Johann Strauss transformed musical performances, all while reflecting societal norms and identities.
25 snips
Apr 4, 2024 • 58min
The Mokrani Revolt
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.
271 snips
Mar 28, 2024 • 58min
Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle
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.
33 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 47min
The Sack of Rome 1527
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.
41 snips
Mar 14, 2024 • 50min
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
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.
62 snips
Mar 7, 2024 • 50min
Hormones
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.
56 snips
Feb 29, 2024 • 49min
The Hanseatic League
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.
75 snips
Feb 22, 2024 • 54min
Panpsychism
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.
