Ideas

Animals — what on earth are they thinking? A panel of scientists explore the notion of animal cognition from what your dog means when it wags its tail, to the incredible problem-solving skills of crows, as part of the Aspen Ideas Festival. *This episode originally aired on November 5, 2021.

Ahead of the U.S. presidential election, there are growing fears that American democracy is headed toward a crisis point. In this 2022 episode, IDEAS contributor Melissa Gismondi unpacks the idea that America as we've known it may be ending, while exploring where the country may be headed, and what — if anything — can save it.

Sam Routley, a writer and PhD student, Marcy MacDonald, a journalist, and John Shields, a Professor Emeritus in Politics, delve into the complexities of Canadian conservatism. They discuss the movement's evolution, grappling with challenges like ultra-nationalism and the call for socially conservative values. The trio explores how younger thinkers are reimagining conservatism to resonate more deeply with today’s youth. They also tackle the intricate relationship between conservatism and immigration, emphasizing the need for adaptation within Canada’s diverse society.

Pankaj Mishra, an award-winning writer and critic of Western liberal democracy, delves into the complexities of nonfiction in today's era of misinformation. He argues that self-serving narratives often disguise imperialistic agendas, leading to skepticism about democracy. Mishra emphasizes the importance of uplifting marginalized voices, particularly Palestinian writers. He also explores the tension between fiction and nonfiction in expressing human truths and discusses the responsibility of creatives during political crises, advocating for authentic self-expression.

Bruce Livesey, a contributor and documentary creator, leads a discussion featuring experts like political scientist Catherine Fieschi and far-right terrorism specialist Matthew Feldman. They delve into the resurgence of fascism and its troubling implications for modern politics. Insights from Robert Reich connect American dynamics to historical fascism, while Vladislav Inazemtsev critiques Putin’s regime. The conversation highlights how societal crises can elevate far-right movements globally, raising alarm about the fragility of democracy in today's landscape.

In this discussion, Eve Perlman, a journalist and founder of Spaceship Media, emphasizes Dialogue Journalism's role in bridging divides. David Beers, founding editor of The Tyee, advocates for solutions journalism to address societal challenges. Maria Exner, a German journalist and director of Publix, shares insights on fostering democratic values through collaborative media. The trio explores the crisis in journalism, the need for community engagement, and innovative approaches to counteract polarization, all while emphasizing the importance of ethical reporting.

David Beers, the founding editor of The Taiyi, joins Jay Rosen, a NYU journalism professor, and Eve Perlman, founder of Spaceship Media, to tackle the crisis in journalism and its role in societal polarization. They discuss innovative solutions like the Difficult Conversations Lab, highlighting the need for empathetic dialogue amid divisive narratives. The guests explore how media ownership influences polarization and the shift from traditional journalism to a more conversational, trust-building approach, emphasizing the importance of integrity and understanding in today's media landscape.

The dominant story in archaeology has long been that humans came to North America around 12,000 years ago. But Indigenous archaeologist Paulette Steeves points to mounting evidence suggesting it was more like 130,000 years ago. *This episode originally aired on Jan. 13, 2022.

They've remained a minority among humans since the dawn of our species, coping with systems and tools arranged for right-handers, and sometimes thriving as a result of their difference. IDEAS explores the history — and latest mysteries — of the 'sinister 10 per cent' to find out what makes a left-hander special. *This episode originally aired on May 2, 2022.

In a compelling discussion, Faisal Hussain, an environmental historian from Pennsylvania State University, sheds light on the often-misunderstood world of wetlands. He unpacks their critical role in biodiversity and carbon storage, challenging historical misconceptions that cast them as wastelands. Hussain emphasizes the urgent need for preservation amid ongoing environmental threats, highlighting the wetlands' significance for marginalized communities. With a blend of history and personal reflection, he encourages a shift in societal perceptions and advocates for community engagement in conservation efforts.