Thinking Allowed

Nina Khrushcheva, a Professor of International Affairs at The New School and great granddaughter of Nikita Khrushchev, dives into the labyrinth of Russian propaganda under Putin. She discusses how Putin's regime has shifted towards aggressive nationalism and the troubling revival of Stalin's image, reflecting on history's impact on current narratives. Khrushcheva also explores the surprising popularity of Orwell's '1984' as a beacon of hope amidst oppression and the enduring power of literature as a form of resistance in authoritarian regimes.

Molly Conisbee, a Visiting Research Fellow at the Centre for Death and Society, shares her insights on the societal history of mortality, emphasizing the everyday experiences of death beyond royal narratives. She discusses historical burial practices and the impact of urbanization. Chao Fang, a Sociology lecturer, examines the concept of a 'good death' in China, contrasting it with Western ideas that prioritize individual choice. They explore the cultural significance of family roles in dying and grieving practices, shedding light on the evolving interpretations of death.

Seth Rockman, an Associate Professor of History at Brown University, explores the hidden histories of plantation goods that fueled the American economy, revealing how items like shoes crafted by Northern women were tied to slavery. Lea David, an Assistant Professor at University College Dublin, delves into the emotional gravitas of everyday objects from sites of tragedy, discussing their role in memorialization and human rights education. Together, they unveil the complex and often painful narratives embedded in these objects, challenging listeners to reconsider their significance.

Jennifer Chudy, an Assistant Professor at Wellesley College, dives into the complexities of racial sympathy in American politics, questioning why some white individuals feel distress over racial inequality yet fail to act. Andrea Sangiovanni, a philosophy professor at King's College, examines the evolving nature of solidarity, distinguishing it from altruism and justice. Together, they explore the critical relationship between personal connections and collective action in today’s social justice movements, offering insights into turning sympathy into meaningful solidarity.

Helen Charman, a Fellow at Cambridge and author of "Mother State," delves into how motherhood intertwines with political history and activism. Caitlin Killian, a sociology professor, discusses the increasing pressures on mothers and the unfair standards applied compared to fathers. They explore the evolution of motherhood, the criminalization of mothers’ actions, and advocate for rebalancing parental responsibilities. The conversation sheds light on the challenges and transformations that shape maternal identities in today's society.

Ivan Markovic, a lecturer at Durham University, explores the cultural significance of smoking in modern Britain, from its role in boosting morale during WWII to the 2007 public smoking ban. He questions whether smoking still holds a place in British culture. Meanwhile, Tricia Starks, a history professor at the University of Arkansas, discusses the paradox of the USSR being the first mass smoking society while opposing capitalist ideals. Their insights reveal fascinating historical and social dynamics shaping smoking habits in both Britain and the Soviet Union.

Fatima Rajina, a Senior Legacy in Action Research Fellow, discusses the evolving dress norms among British Bangladeshi Muslim men, particularly the thobe's role in shaping a universal Muslim identity. Teleica Kirkland, a Lecturer at the London College of Fashion, reflects on the Windrush generation's deliberate fashion choices as a means of asserting dignity in British society. Their dialogue uncovers the complexities of identity, respectability politics, and how clothing serves as both a cultural expression and a vehicle for unity amidst societal scrutiny.

Laurie Taylor talks to Vron Ware, Visiting Professor at the Gender Institute of the LSE, about the reality of living next to a huge army community in the UK. Talking to both sides of the divide, she explores the impact of the sprawling military presence on Salisbury Plain, an area of British countryside which is home to rare plants and wildlife. Is military occupation a positive asset in terms of conservation and ecology? Also, Sunaura Taylor, Assistant Professor in the Division of Society and Environment at UC Berkeley, describes environmental damage below the ground in Tucson Arizona and its ripple effects through the largely Mexican American community living above. Producer: Jayne Egerton

Dan Hancox, author of "Multitudes, How Crowds Made the Modern World," dives into how crowds shape society from Notting Hill carnival-goers to raves. He discusses the dual nature of crowds, both as chaotic forces and powerful collectives. Lisa Mueller, a political scientist, shares insights from her research on protest dynamics, revealing that cohesiveness in crowds leads to greater success. Analyzing British protests, she emphasizes the importance of unified goals in achieving meaningful change.

Nina Edwards, a freelance writer and author of "The Virtues of Underwear," explores the complex social and cultural significance of our most intimate garments. She discusses how underwear shapes identity and reflects societal norms. Shaun Cole, an Associate Professor in Fashion, dives into the history of men's underwear, examining trends like boxers versus briefs. Together, they highlight how changing attitudes towards masculinity influence these choices and how the market for men's undergarments has evolved, revealing unexpected connections to economic trends.