In Our Time

Melissa Lane, a Princeton politics professor, Hans van Wees, an ancient history expert at UCL, and William Allan, a Latin literature professor at Oxford, dive into Solon's revolutionary impact on Athenian society. They discuss the chaotic backdrop of 6th century Athens, marked by economic strife and class struggles. Solon's reforms abolished debt slavery, fostered wider citizen engagement, and laid the groundwork for democracy. His innovative use of poetry helped bridge divides, making laws accessible and encouraging political dialogue during a time of turmoil.

Damaris Coffman, Professor at UCL, Craig Muldrew, a Cambridge economic historian, and Helen Paul from the University of Southampton delve into the ideology of mercantilism that shaped Europe between the 16th and 18th centuries. They discuss the drive for exports and the critique by Adam Smith highlighting the flaws in mercantilism. The conversation explores the interplay between mercantilism and colonialism, along with its lasting influence on modern economics and the persistent debates over trade policies and globalization.

In this enlightening discussion, Jessica Frazier, a lecturer in the study of religion specializing in Hindu epics, and Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad, a distinguished professor of comparative religion, delve into the timeless tale of the Ramayana. They explore Sita's banishment and Valmiki's influence, while examining the epic's cultural significance and themes of virtue and kingship. The conversation highlights the narrative's evolution and its profound impact on regional adaptations, showcasing the complexities of Rama and Sita’s relationship within ever-changing moral contexts.

Join Vicki Cummings, a Neolithic archaeology expert, Julian Thomas, who specializes in megalithic timelines and contexts, and Susan Greaney, who delves into construction techniques, as they explore the mysterious world of megaliths. They discuss burial practices that link ancient spirituality with community collaboration. The relationship between megaliths and the rise of agriculture reveals insights into social dynamics. Fascinatingly, they debate whether these monuments emerged independently or stemmed from shared origins, unraveling a complex history encapsulated in stone.

Colva Roney-Dougal, a Professor of Pure Mathematics at the University of St Andrews, sheds light on Paul Erdős's early life and the socio-political contexts that shaped his work. Timothy Gowers, a noted mathematician at the Collège de France, discusses Erdős's groundbreaking contributions, especially in number theory and Ramsey theory. Andrew Treglown, an Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham, elaborates on Erdős's unique problem-solving techniques in graph theory and the significance of the Erdős number, reflecting his collaborative spirit in mathematics.

Delve into the intriguing world of a poet whose iconic phrase 'Not Waving But Drowning' still resonates today. Discover the tumultuous childhood that shaped her unique voice, blending humor and profound themes of love, death, and existentialism. Explore her innovative poetic style and the interplay of her drawings with her verses. Hear about her influence on modern poets like Sylvia Plath and how her overlooked masterpieces continue to challenge traditional norms, revealing a complex relationship with her art and the themes of time and mortality.

Joan Allen, a history fellow with expertise in the Chartist movement, Emma Griffin, a modern British history professor, and Robert Saunders, a reader in modern history, delve into the rich tapestry of Chartism. They discuss the monumental 1838 Glasgow demonstration and the People's Charter’s calls for reform. Insight into the social fabric shows how the movement unified a disparate working class while facing government repression. The guests highlight the crucial roles women played in activism and how Chartism's legacy paved the way for future reforms.

In this engaging discussion, Ole Grell, an Emeritus Professor in Early Modern History, Adam Mosley, an Associate Professor at Swansea University, and Emma Perkins, an Affiliate Scholar at Cambridge, explore the life of Tycho Brahe. They delve into his revolutionary discovery of a new star, the impact of astrology on royal societies, and his innovative astronomical instruments. The conversation also highlights the political and religious influences of Brahe's time and the legacy of his meticulous research, culminating in his collaboration with Johannes Kepler.

This discussion features Nigel Hussey, an expert on superconductivity from the University of Bristol, Suchitra Sebastian from the University of Cambridge, and Stephen Blundell from the University of Oxford. They delve into Heike Kamerlingh Onnes's revolutionary 1911 discovery of superconductivity. The conversation highlights the baffling nature of zero resistance and the expulsion of magnetic fields in superconductors. They also explore the significance of high-temperature superconductivity and its groundbreaking applications, including MRI technology and potential impacts on nuclear fusion.

Fabienne Peter, a Professor of Philosophy, dives into John Rawls' transformative theory of justice, while Martin O’Neill sheds light on Rawls' background and philosophical influences. Jonathan Wolff evaluates Rawls' radical ideas on economic inequality and the 'justice as fairness' framework. The conversation also tackles the feasibility of Rawls' property-owning democracy and critiques associated with racial justice. They discuss how Rawlsian principles can guide public policy and the ongoing relevance of his insights in today’s democratic societies.