The LRB Podcast

Colin Yeo, a barrister and immigration law expert, and Nicola Kelly, a writer and former Home Office civil servant, dive deep into Britain's asylum system. They explore the recent proposals by the Labour party, emphasizing the detrimental effects of longer probationary periods on integration. Nicola highlights the human toll of draconian policies, advocating for a compassionate public discourse. They also discuss the origins of small boat crossings and challenge the narratives linking asylum seekers to crime, suggesting practical policy fixes to address ongoing issues.

Sepideh Farsi, an Iranian exile filmmaker based in Paris, shares her journey documenting the life of Palestinian photographer Fatma Hassona, who tragically lost her life in an airstrike. They discuss the bond they formed over video calls amidst fear and destruction, exploring Fatma's resilience and commitment to witnessing her reality through photography. Farsi reflects on the ethical challenges of documenting such devastation, the importance of portraying dignity rather than sensationalism, and the emotional weight of carrying Fatma's story forward after her death.

James Wood, a prominent literary critic, explores the essence of realism in major novels. Meehan Crist and Peter Godfrey-Smith delve into environmental literature, highlighting influential works like 'Silent Spring' while discussing the intricate relationship between science and narrative. Mark Ford sheds light on the narrative poetry tradition, mapping connections from Marlowe to contemporary poets. The discussions intertwine fiction and reality, revealing how literature reflects and shapes our understanding of nature and narrative.

Lewis Goodall, a former BBC journalist and now co-host of the News Agents podcast, discusses the ongoing crisis at the BBC, sparked by accusations of partiality in their reporting. He points out how the corporation has prioritized perceived impartiality over truth, shaped by fear of right-wing backlash. Dan Hind, a media reform advocate, argues for restructuring public media, criticizing the BBC's reliance on access-driven journalism. Together, they examine the challenges facing the BBC in a digital age and propose innovative reforms for the future.

Mary-Kay Wilmers, editor of the London Review of Books, discusses the publication's bold response to the aftermath of 9/11. She reflects on the limitations imposed on public discourse and the media's role in shaping narratives around terrorism. Wilmers details the commissioning of diverse perspectives in their roundtable, which sought to challenge prevailing consensus. The conversation also delves into the backlash faced from readers for confronting uncomfortable truths and highlights the ongoing impact of the 'War on Terror' on global politics.

Brett Christophers, a human geographer and author of "The Price Is Wrong," delves into the hidden life of our waste. He reveals the grim reality of how affluent nations offload their waste onto poorer countries, leading to hazardous accumulation in cities like Accra and Delhi. The discussion spans the challenges of recycling, the ties between plastics and the oil industry, and the environmental impact of fast fashion. Christophers calls for systemic change rather than reliance on individual actions in tackling the waste crisis.

Explore the profound impact of 9/11 and the War on Terror, as Daniel Soar examines the expansion of American power. Delve into the rhetoric of good versus evil and the portrayal of a vast terrorist network led by Osama bin Laden. Learn about the controversial tactics employed, including Guantánamo, drone strikes, and mass surveillance. Hear critical voices on the consequences of these actions and reflect on Dick Cheney's haunting prediction of an enduring conflict. This series promises an insightful revisit of a pivotal moment in history.

Tony Wood, a modern political historian, and Camila Vergara, a critical legal theorist, delve into Latin America's political landscape. They explore the collapse of left-wing governments from the Pink Tide and the emergence of right-wing leaders like Milei and Bukele. Their discussion reveals how neoliberal roots shaped these shifts, the impact of a commodity boom on redistribution, and the rise of a reactionary right exploiting media and voter discontent. They also touch on state violence and the potential for revolutionary change amidst current turmoil.

James Lasdun, a renowned novelist and poet, dives into the provocative connections between lead pollution and serial killers in America’s Pacific Northwest. He discusses Caroline Fraser's book, Murderland, highlighting how childhood exposure to lead can correlate with violent behaviors. The conversation explores the impact of industrial negligence, the decline of crime rates after emissions reductions, and even personal accounts from killers attributing their madness to environmental toxins. Lasdun also draws parallels with other harmful industries, offering a compelling look at societal neglect and its consequences.

In this engaging discussion, Andy Haldane, former chief economist at the Bank of England, and Daniela Gabor, a professor of economics, dissect the intricate interplay between bond markets and central bank actions. They explore why governments fear bond markets and how recent fiscal decisions in the UK correlate with these financial forces. The conversation delves into the impacts of quantitative easing and tightening, the potential risks of central bank independence, and the future of industrial policy in a changing economic landscape.