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
16 snips
Jun 28, 2007 • 42min
The Permian-Triassic Boundary
Discover the reign of the Gorgonopsians, fierce predators from 250 million years ago, and the catastrophic Permian-Triassic boundary extinction event. Explore the diverse ecosystems of the Permian era, the role of glyceropteris flora in coal deposits, and the abundance of fungal spores post-extinction. Uncover the impact of volcanic eruptions, methane hydrates, and global warming on mass extinctions, shedding light on cyclical patterns in Earth's history.
Jun 21, 2007 • 42min
Common Sense Philosophy
Delve into the history of common sense philosophy with Marcus Tullius Cicero, Francis Bacon, and Samuel Johnson. Explore the clash between Thomas Reid and David Hume over the nature of knowledge and individuality. Discover how G.E. Moore defended common sense philosophy and its enduring impact on modern philosophers.
Jun 14, 2007 • 28min
Renaissance Astrology
Renaissance Astrology was a pivotal point in history, with astrological beliefs influencing everything from medical practices to political decisions. Astrologers were prominent figures in renaissance courts, universities, and communities, rivaling priests and doctors. The podcast explores the credibility of astrology, its decline in academic circles, clash with religious views, and ongoing practice at high levels.
Jun 7, 2007 • 42min
Siegfried Sassoon
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the war poet Siegfried Sassoon. In 1916 the Military Cross was awarded to a captain in the Royal Welch Fusiliers for "conspicuous gallantry during a raid on the enemy's trenches". The citation noted that he had braved "rifle and bomb fire" and that "owing to his courage and determination, all the killed and wounded were brought in". The hero in question was the poet, Siegfried Sassoon. And yet a year later, and at great personal risk, Sassoon publicly denounced the conduct of the war in which he had fought so well.Although famous for his bitter, satirical verses and his denunciation of the conduct of the war which landed him in Craiglockhart mental hospital there is much more to this man of contradictions. A mentor to Wilfred Owen, arch enemy of T.S. Eliot and the Modernist movement, his life included a string of homosexual affairs, a failed marriage, a religious conversion and several tumultuous arguments with literary friends. Notably Robert Graves. He was also an obsessive diarist and writer of autobiography and he continued to write poetry until his death, from cancer, in 1967. But how significant a poet is Siegfried Sassoon, what version of Englishness did this half-Jewish, homosexual cricket lover invent for himself and how do you explain the mind of a man who bitterly opposed the First World War, yet fought in it with an almost insane ferocity?With Jean Moorcroft Wilson, Lecturer in English at Birkbeck, University of London and a biographer of Sassoon; Fran Brearton, Reader in English and Assistant Director of the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry at the University of Belfast; Max Egremont, a biographer of Siegfried Sassoon
May 31, 2007 • 42min
Ockham's Razor
Philosopher and broadcaster Melvyn Bragg delves into William of Ockham's influential ideas, including Ockham's Razor and his turbulent life. The discussion explores Ockham's impact on political philosophy, his clashes with the Pope, and his enduring legacy in modern thought.
May 24, 2007 • 42min
The Siege of Orléans
Melvyn Bragg and guests delve into the Siege of Orléans, discussing Joan of Arc's pivotal role in rescuing the city from the English. They explore the complex dynamics of French court politics, military incompetence, and religious hysteria. The podcast reflects on the significance of the battle in changing the course of the 100 Years' War and the histories of England and France.
May 17, 2007 • 42min
Gravitational Waves
Scientists delve into the world of Gravitational Waves, discussing their elusive nature, connection to Einstein's theories, and potential to reveal cosmic secrets. They explore the challenges of detecting these cosmic ripples, their impact on our understanding of the universe, and the technologies involved in their detection.
May 10, 2007 • 28min
Victorian Pessimism
Melvyn Bragg and guests delve into Victorian Pessimism, exploring themes of anxiety, faith, and the future. Discussions range from Matthew Arnold's Dover Beach to Thomas Hardy's novels, reflecting on societal fears, religious challenges, and Darwin's impact on society. The episode uncovers the pessimistic tone of the era, addressing concerns about race, class, and cultural evolution in 19th-century England.
10 snips
May 3, 2007 • 28min
Spinoza
Melvyn Bragg discusses the Dutch Jewish Philosopher Spinoza with experts, exploring his radical departure from traditional beliefs, one substance philosophy, determinism challenging free will, knowledge grades, and intellectual passion. Controversial views on God, religion, and influence on Enlightenment and 19th-century thinkers like Walter, Diderot, and George Eliot.
Apr 26, 2007 • 28min
Greek and Roman Love Poetry
Exploring the shift from epic narratives to intimate expressions in love poetry; Sappho's unconventional love triangles challenging norms; Evolution of love poetry from Greek to Roman times with deep emotional and political themes; Reflection on the decline of Roman love poetry under Augustus
