Thinking Allowed

Mark Graham, a Professor of Internet Geography at the Oxford Internet Institute, reveals the hidden struggles of the low-wage workers powering AI, shedding light on their precarious conditions. Paula Bialski, an Associate Professor at the University of St. Gallen, discusses the often-overlooked realities of software development, where the focus is more on fixing issues than creating flashy innovations. Together, they expose the exploitative labor dynamics in tech and emphasize the need for ethical responsibility and worker recognition in this rapidly evolving industry.

Laurie Taylor hosts Ann Murcott, an expert in food packaging, discussing its evolution from tin cans to plastic trays and its social implications. They ponder the environmental impact of modern packaging and whether it's truly wasteful. Meanwhile, Anastacia Marx de Salcedo defends processed foods, breaking down myths and advocating for an understanding of health effects. She highlights the balance of convenience and authenticity in food systems, along with the gender dynamics of cooking responsibilities. It's a thought-provoking exploration of our relationship with food!

Jana Costas, Chair of People, Work & Management at the European University Viadrina, explores the unseen lives of cleaners in Berlin’s Potsdamer Platz, discussing the dignity they carve out despite societal stigmas. Katie Bailey, Emeritus Professor of Work and Employment at King's College London, analyzes why workers in fields like nursing and the arts find deep meaning in their jobs. Together, they uncover the contrasting worlds of corporate professionals and cleaners, shedding light on the invisible labor that often goes unrecognized.

Helen Sampson, a Professor at Cardiff University, shares her 25 years of fieldwork with seafarers, revealing the stark contrast between the romanticized view of life at sea and its isolating reality. Sara Caputo, a Senior Research Fellow at Cambridge, discusses the evolution of maritime mapping, emphasizing its role in shaping modern trade and power dynamics. They also explore the psychological effects of maritime life, the growing surveillance on ships, and the emotional sacrifices seafarers make by missing pivotal life moments.

Elizabeth Pearson, a Senior Lecturer in Criminology, and Katherine Williams, a Postdoctoral researcher, dive deep into the often-overlooked intersection of gender and radicalization. They explore how misogyny influences extremist ideologies across the political spectrum. Pearson sheds light on her research into British extremist groups, while Williams challenges the stereotype that women are disconnected from far-right movements. Their discussion reveals the complex roles women play in these ideologies, highlighting empowerment amidst oppression and the surprising dynamics within radical spheres.

Yvonne Jewkes, a Professor of Criminology at the University of Bath, discusses innovative prison designs that foster rehabilitation, showcasing successful examples like Norway's Halden prison. Lynne McMordie, a Research Associate at Heriot-Watt University, sheds light on the issues homeless individuals face in shelters, arguing that the communal environment often exacerbates their struggles. The conversation advocates for humane living spaces and sustainable housing solutions, emphasizing the need for respect towards individual choices in coping with homelessness.

Becca Voelcker, a Lecturer at Goldsmiths, dives into the intricate ties between sight and power, exploring how our visibility shapes societal control. Jeremy Bentham's panopticon serves as a historical backdrop, questioning modern surveillance's role in our daily lives. They discuss the fine line between being seen for recognition versus control, and the evolution of surveillance from targeting criminals to watching everyone. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on privacy and identity, urging listeners to reflect on their own visibility in a scrutinized world.

Nicole Lobdell, an Assistant Professor of English, dives into the cultural and metaphorical significance of X-rays, exploring how they reveal hidden truths while evoking fear of exposure. She discusses their influence on art and cinema, along with their role during the pandemic. Joining her is Tom Rice, an Associate Professor specializing in medical technology, who unpacks the iconic status of the stethoscope, examining its emotional and historical significance in medicine and its symbolic representation in our understanding of healthcare.

Geoffrey Moss, a Sociology Professor at Temple University, examines the subcultural lives of Philadelphia's hipster baristas. He discusses how middle-class youth embrace low-wage coffee jobs for artistic freedom but face challenges from class and gentrification. Grazia Ting Deng, a Brandeis Lecturer, explores the rise of Chinese-managed coffee bars in Italy, a shift shaped by immigration and economic changes. Both guests reveal how coffee culture serves as a dynamic landscape reflecting broader social and cultural shifts.

In this discussion, Aaron Reeves, a sociology professor at Oxford, uncovers the profiles and trajectories of the British elite, revealing that while their backgrounds may have shifted, social dynamics remain entrenched. He challenges the notion of meritocracy and examines whether today's elites mirror the privileged past. Additionally, Rachel Louise Stenhouse sheds light on private school advantages in Oxbridge admissions, questioning if success stems from true talent or entrenched privilege. Together, they dissect the accessibility of elite education and the implications for social equity.