Ideas

Danny Braun, a documentary contributor and reporter, teams up with Marie-France Ionesco, daughter of absurdist playwright Eugène Ionesco, to delve into the chaotic brilliance of absurdist theatre. They discuss how Ionesco’s plays, such as The Bald Soprano, critique language and conformity amidst the backdrop of postwar Paris. Marie-France shares personal anecdotes about her father's creative process, while Braun highlights the continuing relevance of Ionesco’s themes in today's political landscape, including modern social movements and the dangers of misinformation.

Join John McGinnis, a philosophy professor focusing on medieval Arabic thought, and Sarah Ann Knudsen, an expert on the Abbasid Caliphate, as they unravel the fascinating Greco-Arabic Translation Movement. Discover how 8th-century Baghdad became a vibrant hub for knowledge exchange, fueled by a love for Greek philosophy and the advent of papermaking. They delve into the lives of polymath scholars, the intricacies of patronage, and the impact of translation on medieval education. John Walensky highlights the enduring significance of open scholarly exchange across cultures.

Join Tom Howell, a CBC producer and investigative journalist, Iris Amata-Dion, a climatologist from France, Jackie Forrest, head of the ARC Energy Research Institute, and Zipporah Berman, a campaigner for fossil fuel non-proliferation, as they tackle the paradox of wanting new pipelines while addressing climate change. They explore public opinion on fossil fuels, the impact of climate science on policy, and the potential of carbon capture solutions. The discussion critically examines the realistic energy futures Canada faces and the emotional journey through climate awareness.

Sociologist Musa al-Gharbi, author of "We Have Never Been Woke," explores the influence of the 'symbolic capitalist' class—knowledge workers with elevated status. He highlights how their cultural shifts, or 'awokenings,' affect societal dynamics but often lack genuine resource reallocation. Al-Gharbi discusses the polarization these elites create, how right-leaning counterparts mirror their symbolic politics, and the disconnection between sincere egalitarian ideals and the pursuit of elite status. He calls for tangible activism over mere symbolism.

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.