Ideas

Join David Pizarro, a psychology professor at Cornell, along with Paul Rosin, the renowned 'godfather of disgust studies,' and Senthoran Raj, an Associate Professor of Human Rights Law. They delve into the complex emotion of disgust, tracing its evolutionary roots and its influence on culture, politics, and morality. The discussion reveals how disgust shapes our identities and societal norms, the irony of our dietary choices, and its darker use in dehumanization and law. Get ready for an intriguing exploration of why disgust is both essential and perilous!

Shannon Hoff, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Memorial University and a musician, dives into the intricacies of self-consciousness. She discusses Hegel’s idea of replacing ‘I’ with ‘we’ and how our perceptions are shaped by those around us. The conversation explores the balance between belonging and confronting cultural injustices. Shannon also reflects on her passion for music and its connection to philosophical themes. Lastly, they examine the importance of perspective in understanding self-identity and the complexities of truth in journalism.

John Vaillant, a Vancouver author and journalist known for his book *Fire Weather: The Making of a Beast*, discusses our complex relationship with fire. He highlights fire's role in human evolution and its current threat as climate change escalates wildfires. Vaillant examines incidents like the Fort McMurray disaster, stressing the dual nature of fire as both a tool and a danger. He also emphasizes the urgent need for communities to adapt to increasing fire risks and rethink our reliance on fossil fuels in the face of changing ecosystems.

Rita Nketiah, a Ghanaian-Canadian gender equity consultant, Zetu Matabeni, a filmmaker and professor in queer studies, and Leila Lariba, the director of One Love Sisters, discuss the complex landscape of LGBTQ rights in Africa. They dive into the impact of American evangelical funding on anti-LGBTQ laws, highlighting the dangers faced by activists. The conversation addresses colonial legacies that shape modern attitudes towards gender and sexuality, and the crucial need for local advocacy while navigating external influences. Hope shines through as they envision a more inclusive future.

In this engaging discussion, John Chipman, a CBC radio producer, talks with Kat Bowden, a resilient abuse survivor, Alan Walker, a prevention researcher, and psychologist Ainsley Heisman. They tackle the crucial yet uncomfortable issue of child sexual abuse prevention. The guests explore innovative programs fostering dialogue between survivors and offenders, emphasizing the healing power of understanding. They also discuss personal responsibility, societal stigmas, and proactive strategies for prevention, arguing that open conversations are key to combating this pressing issue.

Marci Shore, a Yale historian specializing in Eastern European history and totalitarianism, discusses the fading U.S. commitment to democracy. She highlights how disillusionment with America's political climate echoes Eastern Europe's struggles. Shore critiques the superficial understanding of democracy and warns of global implications from America's declining trust. Through personal anecdotes, she reflects on her move to Canada and the urgent need for Europe to reconsider its reliance on U.S. support amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Join Stephen Wittek, a Carnegie Mellon University professor specializing in the origins of news culture from Elizabethan England. He discusses how theatrical plays, especially those by Shakespeare, shaped modern news norms and public discourse. Wittek highlights the transformation of news dissemination, the impact of censorship on artistic expression, and the playful critiques of news in satire. He also explores how emotions in theater influence today's public conversations, advocating for inclusivity and diverse voices in modern media discussions.

Join Ruth Jones, a cormorant advocate and documentary producer, along with Karen Edwards, a Renaissance literature professor, and Jay Drew Lanham, a wildlife ecologist, to explore the misunderstood cormorant. Discover how cultural biases have shaped negative perceptions of this bird, once symbolized as evil in literature. They discuss the cormorant's ecological significance and the need for empathy in conservation. Gail Fraser and Cole Swanson add depth to understanding the beauty and resilience of these aquatic birds, inviting a shift in narrative.

Daniel Chua, a distinguished musicologist and professor at the University of Hong Kong, dives into the fascinating connection between music and joy. He reveals how sad music is intricately linked to joy, discussing insights from Confucius to Beethoven. Chua explores the historical significance of music in ancient cultures, emphasizing its role in promoting moral values and societal harmony. He also delves into the paradox of joy and sadness in music, suggesting that even tragic melodies inspire resilience and hope for a brighter future.

Peter Biro, a Canadian legal scholar and advocate for democracy, shares insights on the three alarming ingredients of autocratic power: fear, habituation, and 'stupidification.' He discusses the current decline of liberal democracy, particularly in Canada and the U.S., highlighting misinformation and civic indifference as critical threats. Biro emphasizes the power of average citizens to combat democratic backsliding through education and active engagement, portraying the 'heroic citizen' as key to preserving democratic values in a challenging landscape.