Ideas

Allison Lair, tour leader at the All Things Oz Museum, Michael Patrick Hearn, an expert on children's literature, and Ryan Bunch, president of the International Wizard of Oz Club, discuss the enduring allure of 'The Wizard of Oz.' They explore its themes of self-discovery, the cultural impact of female characters, and its symbolism within American ideals. The conversation also touches on lesser-known figures like Matilda Joslyn Gage and highlights Oz as a sanctuary for marginalized communities, revealing its complex legacy that transcends generations.

Renee Warringer, an expert in Middle Eastern history, Jeffrey Wilkinson, a trauma-focused author, Michael Malloy, a former ambassador, and Raja G. Khouri, a champion of Arab-Canadian relations, explore the failed Oslo Accords. They discuss the aspirations behind the 1993 peace agreement and its aftermath, examining issues like trauma, identity, and the complexities of occupation. The conversation highlights lessons learned, the role of historical narratives, and the need for new approaches in peacebuilding amidst ongoing conflicts.

Amanda Erulanidham is a postdoctoral fellow specializing in the virtues of humility in politics. Nicholas Hatt, an Anglican priest, shares insights from two decades of studying Augustine. Sid Suryakal explores disgust's effect on theology, while Samantha Thompson discusses the problem of evil in Augustine's philosophy. They unravel how Augustine's thoughts on spirituality, identity, and moral dilemmas remain relevant today, especially amidst contemporary challenges faced by the Catholic Church.

In this enlightening discussion, Chris Muller, a media professor and translator of Günther Anders' work, alongside Olivia Trono, an Ideas contributor focused on the philosopher’s concepts, and Jason Dossey, a technology critique expert, delve into the haunting notion of 'Promethean shame.' They explore how technology, from AI to social dynamics, influences our self-worth and moral responsibilities. The conversation highlights Anders’ futuristic insights and their relevance to today's technological crises, urging a more ethical engagement with our advancements.

In this captivating discussion, award-winning natural history writer Robert Macfarlane, historian John Johnson, and environmental historian Jennifer Bonnell explore the idea of rivers as living entities. They delve into the intricate relationship between rivers and human communities, emphasizing the rights of nature and the environmental movement advocating for legal recognition of rivers. The conversation also touches on Indigenous perspectives and the revitalization of urban rivers like Toronto's Don River, weaving together themes of ecological health, community history, and cultural identity.

Zishuan Gan, a PhD student studying technology and death in Chinese science fiction, joins renowned author Liu Cixin, known for The Three-Body Problem, and Ari Heinrich, a professor of Chinese media. They delve into the cultural significance of Chinese sci-fi, examining how it mirrors societal changes and navigates issues like censorship. The discussion touches on the genre's impact on identity, exploring themes of queerness and gender roles, while highlighting the genre's potential to shape perceptions of the future amidst China's evolving landscape.

Branca Marien, a senior researcher on divided societies, Alan McConnell, a lawyer and advocate for Sinn Féin, and historian David A. Wilson delve into the intricate journey of peace in Northern Ireland. They explore the legacy of the Good Friday Agreement, discussing the complexities of reconciliation amid division. Key topics include the historical context of the Troubles, the significance of community support, and the strategic use of ambiguous language in negotiations. Their insights provide a thought-provoking perspective on conflict resolution and legacy.

In this engaging discussion, Alina Valtanen, Finland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasizes the need for Finland and Canada to strengthen defense ties against potential Russian aggression. Yuka Voroslami, a Lieutenant Colonel and chief of staff of the Kainu Brigade, shares insights on NATO's military exercises as a deterrent. The conversation highlights Finland's extensive bomb shelter network and community-focused security strategies. Both guests advocate for citizen participation in national defense, underscoring the importance of preparedness in today's geopolitical landscape.

Brutalist architecture sparks strong emotions and interactions with its concrete structures. The podcast delves into the legacy of iconic buildings, revealing the struggles tied to their demolition and the impact on communities. It uncovers the role of architecture in supporting local families and highlights the ongoing debate over the ethical implications of such designs. The resurgence of brutalism as a trendy aesthetic contrasts sharply with its original mission to serve working-class neighborhoods, prompting reflections on community identity and urban development.

Join Ira Wells, a journalist and author, Lita Berry, CEO of Burlington Public Library, and Meg Utangi-Matzos, Director of Service Design and Innovation at the same library, as they tackle the urgent issue of censorship in public libraries. They discuss the vital role libraries play in upholding democracy and intellectual freedom, particularly in the face of rising book bans. The trio explores the balance between community needs and diverse perspectives while emphasizing libraries as hubs for empathy and engagement in today’s contentious climate.