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
58 snips
Dec 14, 2023 • 56min
The Theory of the Leisure Class
Matthew Watson, a Political Economy professor, Bill Waller, an Economics professor, and Mary Wrenn, a Senior Lecturer in Economics, delve into Thorstein Veblen's pivotal work. They discuss the Gilded Age's emergence of a leisure class, highlighting conspicuous consumption and waste. The conversation covers how Veblen's critiques predated modern economic thought, influenced the New Deal, and introduced the concept of Veblen goods. They also explore the interplay between economic theories and societal change, revealing the enduring relevance of Veblen's insights.
10 snips
Dec 7, 2023 • 53min
The Barbary Corsairs
Join Joanna Nolan, a Research Associate at SOAS, Claire Norton, a former Associate Professor of History, and Michael Talbot, an Associate Professor in Ottoman History, as they delve into the fascinating world of Barbary Corsairs. Discover how these North African privateers challenged European perceptions, operating under a veneer of legitimacy. Explore the complex realities of enslavement and the coexistence between captives and captors. They also tackle the myths surrounding these figures, urging a reevaluation of historical narratives and their modern implications.
132 snips
Nov 30, 2023 • 52min
Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics
This podcast delves into Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics, exploring topics such as happiness, living a good life, weakness of will, pleasure, friendship, and the mean. They discuss Aristotle's background, his focus on the rational part of the human psyche, and the importance of practical wisdom. The role of friendship in Aristotle's philosophy and his analysis of weakness of will are also explored. The podcast takes an interesting turn towards supernatural encounters and an advertisement for Nordstrom at the end.
14 snips
Nov 23, 2023 • 52min
Germinal
Susan Harrow, an expert on Emile Zola, Kate Griffiths, a professor specializing in 19th-century French literature, and Edmund Birch, a lecturer at Cambridge, delve into Zola's powerful novel, Germinal. They discuss the bleak realities faced by miners, exploring themes of poverty, exploitation, and the struggle for humanity amidst industrialization. The conversation highlights Zola's immersive research, his sociological narrative style, and the novel's lasting legacy in literature and art. The guests reveal how Zola's work resonates with modern labor issues, making it ever relevant.
6 snips
Nov 16, 2023 • 50min
Julian of Norwich
Philip Sheldrake, a Professor of Christian Spirituality, discusses the remarkable life of Julian of Norwich, a medieval mystic and likely the first named woman writer in English. He delves into her vivid visions of Christ and her revolutionary concepts of love and sin. The conversation explores Julian's unique portrayal of God's maternal qualities, as well as her challenges as a female authority figure in a skeptical society. Her reassuring message that 'all shall be well' resonates throughout the discussion, emphasizing her lasting influence on spirituality.
18 snips
Nov 9, 2023 • 51min
The Federalist Papers
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.
23 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 49min
Plankton
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.
21 snips
Oct 26, 2023 • 1h 6min
The Economic Consequences of the Peace
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.
45 snips
Oct 19, 2023 • 49min
The Seventh Seal
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.
11 snips
Oct 19, 2023 • 11min
Melvyn Bragg talks to Mishal Husain
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.
