Explore the cultural history of passports and their significance as both an instrument of personal freedom and government surveillance. Learn about the struggles faced by historical figures like Frederick Douglas and Hannah Arendt in obtaining passports. Discover the inequality of passport privileges and the growing trade in passports, including citizenship by investment schemes. Reflect on the impact of these schemes on identity versus pragmatic reasons and the global scene.

This podcast explores the cultural history of 'Amazing Grace', discussing its impact on different communities and its role in secular and religious contexts. It also delves into the significance of songs in South Sudan for promoting peace and justice, and the use of songs in transitional justice. The podcast highlights the universal power of music and promotes the 'Legend' podcast about Joni Mitchell's life.

Daniel Miller, Professor of Anthropology at University College London, explores the 'good enough' life in a small Irish town, showcasing their sense of happiness and virtue. The importance of hope is also discussed by Carol Graham, Director of Economic Studies at the Brookings Institution, highlighting its impact on well-being and the need for community to restore hope.

Patricia Hill Collins, renowned Black feminist scholar, discusses her study on how violence affects people differently based on their sex, class, sexuality, nationality, and ethnicity. The podcast also explores the abuse faced by female migrant domestic workers in the UK. It delves into topics such as the vulnerabilities of these workers, the social construction of violence, case studies of violence outcomes, and the importance of citizen activism in addressing social injustices.

This podcast explores the transformation of burial sites over time, including the rise of cremation, green burial, and human composting. It also discusses the growing demand for memorial benches in meaningful places, serving as 'living obituaries' for seemingly undistinguished lives. The podcast highlights social inequalities in access to memorial benches and explores their role in secular mourning and celebrating lives.

Guest Jane Hamlett, a Senior Lecturer in Modern British History, discusses the changing role of pets in British society. Also, Jessica Amberson explores the significance of dog walking and its impact on the identity of a 'dog person'. The podcast explores the emotional connection between humans and dogs, the cultural factors influencing pet ownership, and the role of pets in constructing family and national identity.

Discover the fascinating global history of sugar and its human costs, from luxury good to transatlantic slavery and the obesity pandemic. Also, learn about the bittersweet nature of sugar consumption and its morally ambivalent presence in family life.

Laurie Taylor talks to philosopher Susan Neiman about the concept of 'woke' and its attack on progressive values. Huw Davies discusses the British 'war on woke' as an ideological campaign mobilizing reactionary tropes in mainstream British politics.

Jennifer Carlson, Professor of Sociology, discusses her study of gun sellers in the US. She explores how conservative sellers reacted to a surge in gun buyers, including women and sexual minorities. Andrew Nahum, historian, joins to discuss the impact of guns on progress throughout history. They examine the paradox of gun ownership and the satisfaction of creating weapons.

An exploration of human relationships with water through the lens of anthropology and politics. From ancient beliefs in water serpent deities to the current environmental crisis, the podcast discusses the need to turn back the tide of ecological disaster. It also highlights water poverty in western societies and the importance of indigenous protests and artistic depictions. The United Nations' approach to water issues and the concept of developing a kinship-based relationship with rivers are also discussed.