Ideas

Lou Skoda, a seasoned cartographer with 50 years of expertise, joins Jesse Gordon, manager of technical services for the Namgis First Nation. They discuss the fascinating subjectivity of maps, revealing how they reflect cultural narratives and biases. From the Gulf of Mexico controversy to garbage management systems, the conversation explores the evolution of cartography, blending art and science. Skoda's innovative population mapping techniques challenge traditional views, highlighting maps as both navigational tools and representations of reality.

At a time when Canadians are rallying around the flag, IDEAS thought we could all use a little Stompin’ Tom Connors to keep us going. Famous for his black cowboy hat, he was an original, writing hundreds of songs about what it means to be Canadian. He may have died 12 years ago, but his songs live on, and resonate today.

A German, a Canadian, and an American meet to discuss national borders — crossing them, defending them, and reimagining what they could become before the century is out. Our three experts dig into what’s happening to the concept of borders, how they work, and how border policies have changed in the past 10 years.

Gerard Ryle, the Executive Director of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, leads fascinating discussions on the staggering $21 to $32 trillion hidden in offshore accounts. He shares how their team of nearly 300 journalists has exposed corruption that toppled leaders in multiple countries. Ryle also highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists today and recounts his personal journey, from facing challenges in Ireland to unraveling significant cases worldwide. It's a deep dive into the power of collaborative investigative work.

Novelist Janika Oza, author of 'A History of Burning,' dives into the complexities of displacement and memory within the South Asian diaspora. She explores how narratives shaped by colonialism and war inform our identities. Through storytelling, Oza discusses the transformative power of reclaiming personal narratives, highlighting how ordinary objects can embody community history. From travel as vessels of memory to the connection found in familial poetry, her insights offer a profound look at healing and belonging through shared stories.

Tanya Lerman, a Stanford anthropology professor known for her work on evangelical experiences, alongside Nils Bubent, an anthropologist focusing on Indonesian witchcraft, explore the intriguing intersections of belief and conspiracy theories. They delve into the psychology behind why individuals embrace extreme beliefs, from QAnon to Christian ideologies. The conversation unpacks the transformative journeys of belief, the dynamics of micro-fascism, and how cultural narratives shape perceptions of reality — all underscored by the human desire for connection and understanding.

In this engaging discussion, guests Daniela Tolchinsky, a PhD candidate exploring Israel's political history, and Adam Dahl, an expert in transnational political thought, dive into the complexities of modern patriotism. They share personal narratives that illuminate how national pride can be both uplifting and fraught with tension. The conversation explores the duality of patriotism versus nationalism, the impact of exile on identity, and the moral dimensions of belonging in the context of historical injustices. Tune in for thought-provoking insights!

The World Wildlife Fund lists the Wabanaki-Acadian old-growth forest as endangered — with only one per cent remaining. The Wabanaki-Acadian forest stretches from parts of the Maritimes and Southern Quebec down into New England states. IDEAS explores the beauty and complexity of this ancient forest with 300-year-old trees. *This episode originally aired on June 11, 2024.

Carlo Rovelli, a leading Italian theoretical physicist and bestselling author, discusses the revolutionary impact of Galileo Galilei on modern science. He passionately explores Galileo’s trailblazing work with the telescope and how it reshaped our understanding of the cosmos. Rovelli connects Galileo’s insights on gravity and tides with contemporary debates on black holes and quantum physics. The conversation also delves into the emotional aspects of scientific discovery, the intersection of science and politics, and the significance of engaging with societal challenges.

Georgiana Ulyaric, a curator at the Art Gallery of Ontario, Brian Foss, an art history professor, and Michael Snow, an artist and Joyce Wieland's husband, delve into the life and artistry of Joyce Wieland. They discuss her revolutionary blend of patriotism and feminism, especially through iconic works like 'O Canada.' The conversation touches on the evolution of Canadian nationalism, including tensions with the U.S. and the significance of her art in shaping national identity. Wieland's ecological themes and personal experiences illuminate her unique contributions to both art and society.