Ideas

Ira Basen, a contributor and documentary producer, dives deep into the controversial concept of The Great Reset, originated by the World Economic Forum. He discusses its perception as either a benevolent shift towards stakeholder capitalism or a sinister plot by elite conspirators. The conversation explores how the pandemic accelerated these discussions, the political connections in Canada, and the challenges of balancing corporate profit with social responsibility. Ira also addresses the real concerns versus exaggerated fears surrounding this new economic vision.

Craig Dessen, a documentary contributor, dives into Walter Benjamin's life and his intriguing idea of 'aura'—the energy surrounding original artworks. Owen Chapman, a communications professor and DJ, relates this to music, arguing that even physical imperfections in records contribute to their unique aura. They explore how Benjamin’s hashish experiments propelled his views on art and reproduction, revealing the implications of our digital age on cultural access and the commodification of art. Their discussion blends philosophy, history, and sound in an engaging way.

Luke Galati, a writer and filmmaker living with bipolar I disorder, shares his transformative journey through psychiatric hospitalization. Joined by Sanat Sethi, who discusses the realities of bipolar II, they explore the nuances of mania versus hypomania and the challenges of navigating emergency services. Dr. Claire Serra, a neuropsychologist, clarifies the clinical distinctions in bipolar treatments and the side effects of antipsychotics. Together, they shed light on recovery, the importance of family support, and how to live successfully with bipolar.

Aaju Peter, an Inuk activist, lawyer, and filmmaker from Greenland, opens up about her journey of decolonization after being taken from her community as a child. She shares the significance of reclaiming Inuit language and traditions while navigating life in Iqaluit. Aaju discusses the impact of her documentary, *Twice Colonized*, how grief has fueled her activism, and her vision for a united Inuit homeland. Through stories of communal living and cultural transmission, she emphasizes the importance of teaching these traditions to future generations.

Beverly Jacobs, an expert in Indigenous law, unveils the Great Law of Peace and emphasizes the significance of women's roles in establishing harmony. Cesar Jaramillo, a disarmament advocate, critiques the military-industrial complex while exploring pathways to negotiation amidst global conflicts. Payam Akhavan, an international human rights lawyer, highlights the need for interconnectedness and moral imperatives in peacemaking. Together, they discuss the balance of immediate ceasefires and long-term justice, underscoring the importance of cultural responsibility and public engagement in fostering peace.

Join neuroscientists Daniel J. Levitin and Nina Krauss, along with researcher John Iverson and kinesiology expert Lois Butcher-Poffley, as they explore the profound role of rhythm in human life. They discuss how rhythm shapes our ability to walk, talk, and connect emotionally from womb to adulthood. Discover how dancers enhance athletic performance through rhythmic training and learn about the therapeutic effects of rhythm for Parkinson's patients. They also reveal how music and language are intricately linked by rhythm.

Gabriel Walker, a climate scientist and author, dives into the transformative history of Earth’s atmosphere, discussing how air shapes life. Sam Keane, a renowned science writer, adds depth by exploring the stages of atmospheric evolution and the rare occurrence of oxygen. The conversation highlights the dramatic impacts of human activity on air quality and climate, from greenhouse gas effects to past mass extinctions. They consider future adaptations, from carbon removal strategies to innovative geoengineering solutions, revealing a pressing need to rethink our relationship with air.

Join Matthew Lazen-Rider, an Ideas producer exploring shipwreck stories, along with literature scholar Stephen Mentz and comparative literature professor Paul Fleming. They unravel the captivating history of shipwreck tales, from ancient epics to contemporary narratives, revealing their deep cultural resonance. Ethnomusicologist Heather Sparling shares insights on disaster songs that help communities mourn and memorialize maritime losses. Together, they discuss the ship as a metaphor for political strife and the fragile nature of existence in our tumultuous times.

Heba Ali, a Canadian–Egyptian humanitarian journalist and organizer, leads a coalition for UN reform. She discusses the inadequacies of traditional crisis responses and stresses the need for courage in advocacy. Tim Murithi, a peacebuilding expert, emphasizes the urgency of revisiting outdated governance models. Augusto Lopez-Claros advocates for structural changes like a parliamentary assembly to enhance effectiveness. Finally, Alana O'Malley sheds light on member-state hesitations about reform while highlighting the necessity of reimagining the UN's role in the contemporary world.

Prakash Diar, a human rights lawyer, and Kagiso Lesego Molope, a talented novelist and playwright, share their profound perspectives on South Africa's tumultuous past. They reflect on their youthful activism during apartheid and the transformative yet incomplete National Peace Accord. The duo tackles the deep pains of justice versus peace, highlighting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s cultural mismatches. They emphasize the necessity for systemic change and echo crucial lessons for reconciliation in other nations.