Moral Maze

In this discussion, Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation, highlights how upbringing influences moral responsibility. Sonia Sodha and Inaya Folarin-Iman debate the interplay between agency and circumstance. Kirsty Brimelow sheds light on how mitigating factors are considered in legal contexts. Susan Blackmore challenges the notion of free will, advocating for rehabilitation in law, while David Enoch argues against moral luck's significance. The panel navigates the complex landscape of moral judgments, responsibility, and the impact of luck in our lives.

This year’s John Lewis Christmas advert puts an emotional focus on a father-son relationship. It shows a dad and his teenage boy struggling to put their feelings into words. It points to what many observe as a wider crisis in fatherhood. Numerous studies suggest that an involved father significantly improves a child's life chances. However, in the UK, a teenager is more likely to own a mobile phone than live with their dad, according to a 2025 report from the Centre for Social Justice.The reasons are complex. Traditionalists cite changing gender roles leading to conflicting societal expectations on men and a confusion of male identity. Progressives suggest the pressure on dads to be strong for their family, both financially and emotionally, makes it difficult for them to demonstrate vulnerability, and that leads to guilt, stress and burnout. Youth workers report how the lack of a male role model at home can make space for other damaging influences - in the real world and online, in gangs and in the “manosphere” - pushing a very narrow definition of masculinity, and begetting more ill-equipped fathers.What should be the role of a father, practically, emotionally and morally? How, if at all, should it be different from that of the mother? Do we expect too much or too little of fathers? Do children always need fathers in their lives? How should we address the ‘rinse-and-repeat’ cycle of absent fathers?Chair: Julie Etchingham Panel: Carmody Grey, Giles Fraser, Anne McElvoy and James Orr. Witnesses: Tony Rucinski, Genevieve Roberts, Anton Noble, Ed Davies. Producer: Dan Tierney.

Curtis Yarvin, an American blogger and political theorist known for his controversial views on anti-democracy, dives deep into the failures of democratic systems. He argues that modern democracy serves elite interests and proposes a return to monarchy governed by corporate principles. The discussion raises questions about accountability, human rights, and whether figures like CEOs are fit to rule. Meanwhile, panelists debate the impact of current political dynamics on public faith in democracy and explore alternative systems that might better serve society.

Join Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation, Giles Fraser, a provocative priest and commentator, Mona Siddiqui, a religion and society professor, and historian Tim Stanley as they dive into the moral implications of recognizing Palestine. They discuss the UK’s shift in policy, its potential impact on peace, and whether this recognition might empower Hamas. Ben Jamal from the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign offers insights on self-determination, while Jake Wallace-Simons passionately critiques the recognition as a betrayal of Israel in light of historical claims and ongoing violence.

Paul Conroy, a war cameraman with extensive experience in conflict zones, discusses the ethics of witnessing graphic violence and its impact on personal trauma and social change. Philosopher Jamie Whyte dives into moral questions around censorship and the public's right to know. The guests debate whether there’s a moral duty to watch shocking footage, how it shapes our understanding, and the potential dangers of desensitization. Together, they explore the balance between open access to information and the dignity of those depicted in distressing situations.

Alice Evatt, a Research Fellow on Net Zero at the Oxford Environmental Change Unit, and Sorin Baiasu, a philosophy professor focused on Kantian ethics, dive into the moral implications of net zero emissions. They debate whether pursuing net zero is a moral obligation amidst rising energy costs and societal impacts. The conversation navigates complex ethical dilemmas, such as balancing environmental goals with economic realities and the responsibilities of nations to address historical emissions and climate justice.

Join Tim Stanley, a historian and Daily Telegraph columnist, alongside Mona Siddiqui, a Professor of Religion and Society, and others as they unpack the media's role in shaping public discourse on immigration. Inaya Folarin Iman argues for more accurate reflection of public sentiment, while Matthew Taylor discusses the complexities of public engagement. Zoe Gardner highlights media influence on perceptions, and George Monbiot critiques the prioritization of sensationalism over critical issues. Baroness Stowell emphasizes the BBC's balance in coverage, revealing the intricate web between media narratives and public concern.

Join striptease performer and author Stacey Clare, alongside philosopher John Haldane, as they dive into the intricate world of disgust and morality. They discuss the backlash against controversial behaviors, like the case of Bonnie Blue, and question how instinctive feelings shape our moral judgments. Clare touches on the ethics of sex work and the importance of consent, while Haldane explores the evolutionary roots of disgust as a moral compass. Together, they challenge listeners to rethink societal norms and the true implications of our visceral reactions.

Join historian Paul Lay, writer Maddy Fry, and sociologist Ellis Cashmore as they dive into the hot topic of replacing historical figures on banknotes with more contemporary symbols. They navigate the murky waters of heroism, questioning whether we should venerate flawed icons like Churchill and Austen or embrace a more inclusive narrative. The trio explores how celebrity culture shapes our understanding of historical figures and what it means to be a hero in today's society, emphasizing the importance of recognizing imperfections and collective achievements.

Matthew Syed, a columnist and broadcaster, shares insights on social cohesion shaped by his experiences. Julie Siddiqui highlights her grassroots work promoting interfaith understanding. Professor Mona Siddiqui discusses pluralism and the governmental role in fostering community bonds. Ravi Gurumurthy presents statistics on race relations, while Lord Jonathan Sumption explores human nature's impact on social unity. Inaya Folarin-Iman adds her thoughts on national identity, questioning if genuine social cohesion can be achieved through policy alone.