Ideas

CBC
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Jul 18, 2025 • 54min

Will the real Martin Luther please stand up?

David Kattenberg, a documentary producer, joins historian Thomas Kaufmann and former regional dean Harald Storch to unravel the complex legacy of Martin Luther. They dive into Luther's groundbreaking translation of the New Testament, which democratized scripture access, and discuss his role in sparking the Protestant Reformation. The conversation touches on Luther’s linguistic mastery, his evolving views on Jews, and the powerful impact of the printing press. The guests explore how Luther's dual identity as a reformer and controversial figure continues to shape debates today.
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17 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 54min

Meet the original 'Father of Economics' — it's not Adam Smith

Join Bruce Lawrence, a retired professor of religious studies, Stephen Dale, an expert on South Asian and Islamic history, and Nora Lafi, a historian specializing in the Ottoman Empire. They delve into the groundbreaking ideas of Ibn Khaldun, the original 'Father of Economics,' who laid the groundwork for modern economic and sociological theory 400 years before Adam Smith. The conversation uncovers the importance of social cohesion, historical memory, and the relevance of Khaldun's insights for understanding contemporary civilization and governance.
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Jul 16, 2025 • 54min

How anxiety over today's democracy is political

Kinch Hoekstra, a political science professor at UC Berkeley, specializes in Hobbes and political theory, while Shana Guderian, an associate dean at Syracuse's Maxwell School, studies public reactions to political events. They explore how Thomas Hobbes' notions of anxiety relate to today’s democratic landscape. The conversation highlights anxiety as a driving force in political behavior, linking emotions to the fragility of liberal democracy. They also discuss how political conflicts can be navigated through mutual respect, advocating for personal well-being over divisive politics.
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Jul 15, 2025 • 54min

Is human intelligence overrated?

Our brains tell us that our intellects make us superior to animals. But after years of studying dolphins and other marine creatures, Justin Gregg has come to the conclusion that the human brain isn’t as great as it thinks it is. His research led him to a shift in his view on our much-vaunted intelligence. *This episode originally aired on June 22, 2023.
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10 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 54min

A lesson on why NOT to engage in polarized discussions

Shalini Satkunanandan, a political theorist from UC Davis, and Jeff Church, a political science professor at the University of Houston, dive into the art of dialogue in today's polarized climate. They discuss how Nietzsche’s philosophy can guide us in navigating differences without confrontation. Satkunanandan highlights the necessity of 'passing by' instead of engaging in divisive debates, promoting silence as a thoughtful response. Their conversation explores how acknowledging varying beliefs can cultivate better understanding and enhance emotional resilience.
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Jul 11, 2025 • 54min

What rights do we need for our future?

If the Universal Declaration of Human Rights were rewritten today, what rights would we add to strive for a more just world? In the final episode of our five-part series, IDEAS looks beyond our fractured present and tries to imagine what new rights we need for the new millennium. *This episode originally aired on Sept. 6, 2025.
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Jul 10, 2025 • 54min

Is our right to freedom of expression limitless?

Delve into the significance of Articles 18 and 19 from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for free expression worldwide. Explore contrasting narratives from apartheid-era South Africa and Canada, revealing the complexities of group rights and individual representation. Personal stories highlight the importance of historical context in shaping today's freedoms. Discussions stress the need for critical reflection on our responsibilities to uphold these rights amidst modern challenges, urging individuals to consider their legacies.
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Jul 9, 2025 • 54min

Why are refugee rights not protected equally?

Nahlah Ayed, an insightful journalist known for her work in human rights and displacement issues, dives into the critical topic of the right to leave, return, and seek asylum. The discussion unveils the tragic realities faced by migrants today, including crises at the US-Mexico border and in Libya. Ayed highlights the gap between human rights ideals and their implementation, while uncovering the dehumanization in migration policies. The episode urges a reevaluation of resource allocation towards humanitarian approaches, advocating for civic engagement and support for refugees.
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Jul 8, 2025 • 54min

Is our right to privacy meaningless in this tech age?

The panel dives into the historical context and implications of Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, stressing the importance of privacy in the modern world. A shocking revelation about a Canadian traveler surveillance program sparks a discussion on government overreach and tech companies. The conversation highlights how marginalized communities experience increased surveillance, underlining the need for robust privacy protections. They also explore privacy's evolution amid technological challenges and compare Canada's legal landscape with the EU's strides towards better data regulation.
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Jul 7, 2025 • 54min

Who has a ‘right to life’?

Dive into a spirited discussion on the right to life, liberty, and security. Panelists share personal stories and historical insights, revealing how these concepts have evolved over 75 years. Explore the harsh contrasts between urban prosperity and homelessness in Toronto. Unpack complex interpretations of human rights and the tension between state security and individual freedoms. Plus, confront the climate crisis's impact on our understanding of security and highlight the role of love and youth activism in driving societal change.

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