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
Jul 18, 2002 • 42min
Heritage
Melvyn Bragg discusses the role of history and heritage in shaping British national identity, highlighting the evolving perspectives on truth-seeking in history. The conversation explores the politicization of heritage, contrasting views on land ownership, and engaging younger audiences in historical sites. Reflecting on the changing narratives of national identity, the discussion emphasizes the influence of literature, politics, and cultural movements in shaping collective memory. Exploring the evolution of historical analysis, the focus shifts from general systems of explanation to individual agency, unraveling causal mechanisms and cultural history. Delving into diverse global perspectives and generational changes, the conversation examines the shifting landscape of historical interests and national identity in England and Britain.
Jul 11, 2002 • 29min
Psychoanalysis and Democracy
Exploring Freud's views on group psychology, dictatorship, and democracy in the context of the rise of psychoanalysis. Discussing Freud's political metaphors in psychology, his correspondence with Einstein on civilization and instincts, and the importance of embracing conflicts and evolving perspectives in psychoanalysis. Highlighting the significance of disagreement in democracy for a healthy society.
Jul 4, 2002 • 28min
Freedom
Melvyn Bragg and guests explore the concept of freedom throughout history, from debates on natural freedom to the role of laws in preserving liberty. They discuss the conflicting views on freedom in ancient Greece, philosophical conceptions of free will and divine power, paradoxes of freedom during the French Revolution, and the interplay between rights and freedom in American history.
Jun 27, 2002 • 28min
Cultural Imperialism
Exploring the roots of cultural imperialism, the podcast discusses how power is wielded through values and institutions. It delves into historical instances like the Greeks leveraging culture for dominance and the Roman Empire's influence in Western Europe. It challenges the belief in nation-states as the ideal social structure and explores the response of societies to dominant cultural forces, highlighting American imperialism and the spread of English as a world language.
Jun 20, 2002 • 28min
Wagner
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life of composer Richard Wagner, his impact on opera, his political beliefs, struggles with poverty, and controversial legacy tainted by anti-Semitism. They explore his vision for a unified Germany through culture, his revolutionary ideologies, influence on philosophy, and the debate surrounding his anti-Semitism.
Jun 13, 2002 • 28min
The American West
Explore the myths and reality of American pioneers in the 19th century, driven by 'manifest destiny' and the promise of a better life. Delve into the motivations behind westward expansion, the challenges faced by pioneers, and the tragic tale of the Donner Party. Discover the impact of the Gold Rush era on the American West, and the evolution of the frontier myth on American identity and politics.
Jun 6, 2002 • 28min
The Soul
Exploring diverse perspectives on the soul, from Plato's immortal reason to the essence in plants and animals according to Aristotle. The debate over the soul's composition, residence, and role in individuality. The shift in soul understanding, breaking traditional beliefs, and connecting individuals directly with the divine. Delving into Greek tragedy, inherited divinity, and philosophical views on the soul's survival after death. The moral dimension of the Christian soul and its evolving relationship with modern notions of self.
May 30, 2002 • 28min
The Grand Tour
Melvyn Bragg and guests explore the origins and impact of 18th-century tourism, focusing on the Grand Tour. They discuss the motivations behind the tour, its cultural impact on British attitudes towards art and diplomacy, and the experiences of travelers in Europe. The podcast delves into the evolution of the Grand Tour from a pilgrimage to an educational pursuit, the emotional responses to iconic artworks, and the behaviors of tourists during that period.
May 23, 2002 • 28min
Drugs
Exploring the history and impact of drugs on creativity throughout time; delving into the conflicting perspectives on the influence of substances on artistic expression; examining the intertwined history of drugs in European civilization, from ancient times to the 20th century; exploring the link between orientalism, drug use, and creativity in art and literature; discussing the romantic movement's use of drugs to enhance creativity and unlock the imagination; delving into the portrayal of drug use in literature and society, reflecting societal changes and perceptions
May 16, 2002 • 42min
Chaos Theory
Exploring Chaos Theory challenges Newton's principles of predictability, highlighting how small actions can lead to unpredictable cascading effects. The podcast delves into the balance between chaos and order in various systems like the brain and traffic, showcasing the complexities of Chaos Theory. It discusses the limits of predictability in the brain due to quantum mechanics and randomness, contrasting predictable events like satellite trajectories with truly unpredictable scenarios. The conversation unveils patterns in seemingly chaotic phenomena, offering models to comprehend the emergence of regular patterns within chaos.
