In Our Time

Frank Cogliano, a Professor of American History, Kathleen Burk, a Professor Emerita of Modern and Contemporary History, and Nicholas Guyatt, a Professor of North American History, dive into the creation and significance of The Federalist Papers. They discuss the historical context following the American Revolution and the foundational debates surrounding state versus national governance. The trio elaborates on key themes like the challenges of the Articles of Confederation and the ongoing relevance of Hamilton and Madison's arguments, which remain central to today's political discourse.

This podcast explores the fascinating world of plankton, discussing their role in the marine food chain, the largest migration of life on Earth, and the importance of phytoplankton in producing oxygen. The speakers also delve into nutrient imbalances, iron's role in limiting primary reduction, and how plankton data can inform environmental management. They emphasize the need for collaboration, funding, and managing oceans.

Join prominent historians Margaret MacMillan, Michael Cox, and Patricia Clavin as they dive into the aftermath of World War I and the profound insights of John Maynard Keynes. They explore Keynes' prophetic warnings in his influential book about the Treaty of Versailles and its disastrous economic consequences, shedding light on how these ideas influenced public sentiments and international relations. The discussion spans from the chaotic political landscape of post-war Europe to the implications of reparations and the lessons learned for contemporary peace-building efforts.

Claire Thompson, Professor of Cinema History, Laura Hubner, Professor of Film, and Jan Holmberg, Director of the Ingmar Bergman Foundation, delve into the iconic chess scene in Ingmar Bergman's The Seventh Seal. They discuss its existential themes, artistic significance, and the connections to Bergman's upbringing. The guests also explore the film's innovative character dynamics, the portrayal of Death, and how childhood memories influenced Bergman’s vision. Their analysis reveals the profound impact this film has had on both cinema and our understanding of life and mortality.

The podcast celebrates a significant milestone, reflecting on its journey through 1,000 engaging discussions. It highlights the dedication required to host thought-provoking conversations with expert guests. The interplay between teaching and authority in academia is explored, emphasizing effective communication. The challenges faced by the BBC in adapting to political and audience shifts are discussed, showcasing the need for compelling programming. Ultimately, the conversation champions accessible knowledge sharing and the joy of diving into complex topics.

This conversation features Richard Staley, a prominent historian of physics, Diana Kormos Buchwald, an expert on the Einstein Papers, and John Heilbron, a renowned science historian. They delve into Einstein's transformative 1905, known for groundbreaking theories like mass-energy equivalence. The guests examine his rise to fame post-1919, when his gravitational theory was validated during a solar eclipse. They also discuss his political awakening during World War I, his complex legacy, and how his character shaped both science and societal norms.

Michele Dougherty, a leading expert in space physics, Leigh Fletcher, a notable planetary scientist, and Carolin Crawford, an accomplished astronomer, dive into the wonders of Jupiter. They discuss the planet's immense size and light composition, crucial to solar system dynamics. Listeners will learn about the rich history of observations, from Galileo to the JUICE mission. The fascinating possibility of life on Jupiter's moons, particularly Europa and Ganymede, is explored, along with the planet's intricate magnetic field and the Great Red Spot's atmospheric mysteries.

Roger Teichmann, a Lecturer in Philosophy at St Hilda’s College, dives into the remarkable life of Elizabeth Anscombe, a trailblazer in moral philosophy. They discuss her staunch objections to the use of nuclear weapons, calling it immoral due to the massive civilian casualties. Teichmann highlights her critiques of traditional moral views and her emphasis on intention in ethics, reshaping philosophical discourse. Anscombe's journey under Ludwig Wittgenstein and her bold defiance of societal norms illustrate her influential legacy in modern philosophy.

In this thought-provoking discussion, guests Karolina Watroba, an expert in Modern Languages, Erica Wickerson, a former Research Fellow at Cambridge, and Sean Williams, a Senior Lecturer in German Culture, delve deep into Thomas Mann's "Death in Venice." They explore the complex themes of obsession, beauty, and self-destruction through the tragic figure of Gustav von Aschenbach. The conversation also highlights the interplay between desire and morality, linking Mann's writing to contemporary societal challenges and the philosophical tensions of art and life.

Join Nick Lowe, Reader in Classical Literature, Fiona Macintosh, Professor of Classical Reception, and Edith Hall, Professor of Classics, as they dissect Sophocles' Oedipus Rex. They delve into the play's exploration of fate, identity, and power dynamics in ancient Athens. The discussion highlights Oedipus's tragic journey from a revered king to a tyrant who blinds himself, as well as the play's lasting legacy through psychological interpretations. Expect insights into audience participation and the complex relationships that make this tragedy a timeless masterpiece.