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
Feb 21, 2002 • 42min
The Celts
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Celts. Around 400 BC a great swathe of Western Europe from Ireland to Southern Russia was dominated by one civilisation. Perched on the North Western fringe of this vast Iron Age culture were the British who shared many of the religious, artistic and social customs of their European neighbours. These customs were Celtic and this civilisation was the Celts.The Greek historians who studied and recorded the Celts' way of life deemed them to be one of the four great Barbarian peoples of the world. The Romans wrote vivid accounts of Celtic rituals including the practice of human sacrifice - presided over by Druids - and the tradition of decapitating their enemies and turning their heads into drinking vessels.But what were the Celts in Britain really like? Was their apparent lust for violence tempered by a love of poetry and beautiful art? How far should we trust the classical historians in their writings on the Celts? And what can we learn from the archaeological remains that have been discovered in this country? With Barry Cunliffe, Professor of European Archaeology at Oxford University; Alistair Moffat, Historian and author of The Sea Kingdoms - The Story of Celtic Britain and Ireland; Miranda Aldhouse Green, Professor of Archaeology at the University of Wales.
Feb 14, 2002 • 28min
Anatomy
Explore the history of anatomical study, from Greeks comparing humans to pigs to Renaissance dissections. Follow the noble ambitions of medical science and the murky world of Victorian grave robbing. Learn about Vesalius captivating Renaissance Artists and Burke and Hare’s gruesome pursuits. Dive into the roles of science, religion, and art in understanding the male and female body.
Feb 7, 2002 • 28min
The Universe's Shape
Explore the origins of the universe through the Big Bang theory, red shift phenomenon supporting universe expansion, evolution from hot gas to galaxies, mysteries of dark matter, debates on universe's shape, cosmic radiation remnant from Big Bang, anthropic principle, and implications of different laws of nature in distinct universes
Jan 31, 2002 • 28min
Yeats and Mysticism
Delve into the mystical world of W.B. Yeats - from Celtic folklore to his wife's spirit communications. Explore his role as a poet, mystic, and practitioner of magic. Learn about Yeats' fascination with occult subcultures and how his poems reflect his dreams and spiritual beliefs.
6 snips
Jan 24, 2002 • 28min
Happiness
Philosophers Angie Hobbs, Simon Blackburn, and Anthony Grayling delve into the age-old debate on happiness. They explore whether true happiness arises from pleasure or virtue, referencing historical figures like Horace and Thrasymachus. The trio examines Eudaimonia's concept, contrasting perspectives from Plato and Aristotle. They also discuss Epicurus's views on pleasure versus Stoicism's composure amid adversity. The conversation links ancient insights to modern expectations of health, wealth, and the enigmatic quest for genuine contentment.
Jan 17, 2002 • 42min
Catharism
Explore the rise of the Cathars, a heretical sect in medieval Europe, and the Vatican's efforts to combat them. Learn about the unique beliefs of the Cathars, their rejection of traditional Christian theology, and the brutal Albigensian Crusade targeting them. Delve into the conflict between spiritual purity and ceremonial holiness in the high middle ages.
12 snips
Jan 10, 2002 • 28min
Nuclear Physics
Exploring the evolution of atom concept, unveiling mysteries of alpha particles, unraveling nuclear fission, and discussing fusion reactions in stars and labs. Delving into the advantages and challenges of nuclear fusion for sustainable energy production and its impact on technology and philosophy.
10 snips
Jan 3, 2002 • 42min
Sensibility
Exploring 18th century Sensibility movement, sentimental novels, and Jane Austen's critique. Delving into emotional expression, realism in literature, and societal impact. Contrasting perspectives in 'Sense and Sensibility', character evolution, and influence on Victorian society.
17 snips
Dec 27, 2001 • 42min
Food
Exploring how food intertwines with identity and aspirations, this podcast delves into the cultural significance of food in Modern Europe. From the evolution of food culture in the Renaissance to the rise of vegetarianism as a moral stance, the episode covers the historical significance of food choices, dining practices, and the impact of diet on health, culture, and society.
4 snips
Dec 20, 2001 • 28min
Rome and European Civilization
Delve into Rome's mythical origins with Romulus and Remus, Aeneas, and Dido, revealing Rome's dual identity of Republicanism and Imperialism. Explore Augustus' transformation of Rome from brick to marble, censorship and exile in ancient Rome, and Roman integration of Greek culture.
