
Analysis
Programme examining the ideas and forces which shape public policy in Britain and abroad, presented by distinguished writers, journalists and academics.
Latest episodes

15 snips
Mar 25, 2024 • 29min
The low pay puzzle
Exploring the low pay puzzle in the UK: the National Living Wage increase, billions in extra pay for low-paid workers, but still 2/3 of households in poverty. What can employers, governments, and workers do to ensure fair pay? Experts discuss the disconnect between economic growth and stagnant wages, the impact of the National Minimum Wage, fairness perceptions on work behavior, and strategies for businesses to navigate rising minimum wages.

4 snips
Mar 18, 2024 • 29min
How real is the existential threat from AI?
The podcast explores the rising fear of AI causing catastrophic outcomes and the acceleration of AI technology with Chat GPT's development. It delves into the concept of cognitive emulation for creating more controllable AI and the potential existential threat of AI surpassing human intelligence. The impacts of AI on politics and governance are also discussed.

Mar 11, 2024 • 29min
What would Isambard Kingdom Brunel have done?
Podcast explores how Isambard Kingdom Brunel's bold engineering designs could tackle current UK infrastructure woes, with a focus on HS2 project controversies, funding challenges, and historical vs present-day project management complexities.

Mar 4, 2024 • 29min
Power Drive
The podcast delves into the political power of motorists, society's attachment to cars, and the challenges of transitioning to sustainable transportation. It discusses the historical battle between individual freedom and state regulations, the future of driving with electric vehicles, road pricing systems, and autonomous driving technology. Exploring societal shifts in urban transportation, the podcast emphasizes altering behavioral patterns, enhancing public transit, and imposing restrictions on driving for sustainable travel.

Feb 26, 2024 • 29min
How to cure the small town blues
Exploring the decline and revitalization efforts in Middlesbrough, from its industrial rise to economic struggles. Highlighting innovation, community support, and resilience in the face of challenges. Featuring insights from local figures and initiatives driving change in the town.

Feb 19, 2024 • 29min
How to Dismantle a Democracy
Exploring the slow dismantling of democracies through tactics like intimidation, travel bans, and fear tactics used globally. Discussion on India's political climate, Mexico's INE independence, and politicizing institutions for political gain in Poland. Showcases how autocratic playbooks from Mexico, Turkey, India, and Poland follow similar patterns.

Feb 12, 2024 • 29min
What is 'British culture'?
Bushra Shaikh, a British Asian charity runner, business-owner, writer, and commentator explores the elusive concept of British culture. She received an overwhelming response when she asked about the definition of British culture. The podcast discusses the connection between British culture, race, and religion. It also covers the significance of speaking English and the impact of accents on social status. The integration of immigrants into British culture is explored, along with the origins of British etiquette and its role in societal acceptance.

Feb 5, 2024 • 29min
Has the family had its day?
The podcast explores the decline of the nuclear family, the importance of strong families in society, addressing the declining fertility rate, the evolution of the family, reevaluating the 'hard-working family,' and empowering individuals to shape their own families and relationships.

6 snips
Nov 20, 2023 • 29min
What's the future of nudge?
Magda Osman and other experts discuss the future of nudge and its impact on public policy. They explore effective nudges, controversy and criticism surrounding nudging, the use of nudge in different industries, the dark side of nudge, belief in free will, and criticisms and limitations of behavioral science in public policy.

17 snips
Nov 13, 2023 • 30min
Can reading really improve your life?
The podcast explores the decline in reading for pleasure and its impact on children's educational success and wellbeing. It discusses the role of school libraries and campaigns to promote reading. The importance of reviewing children's books in the media is also highlighted.
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