Ideas

Gerard Ryle, the Executive Director of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, leads fascinating discussions on the staggering $21 to $32 trillion hidden in offshore accounts. He shares how their team of nearly 300 journalists has exposed corruption that toppled leaders in multiple countries. Ryle also highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists today and recounts his personal journey, from facing challenges in Ireland to unraveling significant cases worldwide. It's a deep dive into the power of collaborative investigative work.

Novelist Janika Oza, author of 'A History of Burning,' dives into the complexities of displacement and memory within the South Asian diaspora. She explores how narratives shaped by colonialism and war inform our identities. Through storytelling, Oza discusses the transformative power of reclaiming personal narratives, highlighting how ordinary objects can embody community history. From travel as vessels of memory to the connection found in familial poetry, her insights offer a profound look at healing and belonging through shared stories.

Tanya Lerman, a Stanford anthropology professor known for her work on evangelical experiences, alongside Nils Bubent, an anthropologist focusing on Indonesian witchcraft, explore the intriguing intersections of belief and conspiracy theories. They delve into the psychology behind why individuals embrace extreme beliefs, from QAnon to Christian ideologies. The conversation unpacks the transformative journeys of belief, the dynamics of micro-fascism, and how cultural narratives shape perceptions of reality — all underscored by the human desire for connection and understanding.

In this engaging discussion, guests Daniela Tolchinsky, a PhD candidate exploring Israel's political history, and Adam Dahl, an expert in transnational political thought, dive into the complexities of modern patriotism. They share personal narratives that illuminate how national pride can be both uplifting and fraught with tension. The conversation explores the duality of patriotism versus nationalism, the impact of exile on identity, and the moral dimensions of belonging in the context of historical injustices. Tune in for thought-provoking insights!

The World Wildlife Fund lists the Wabanaki-Acadian old-growth forest as endangered — with only one per cent remaining. The Wabanaki-Acadian forest stretches from parts of the Maritimes and Southern Quebec down into New England states. IDEAS explores the beauty and complexity of this ancient forest with 300-year-old trees. *This episode originally aired on June 11, 2024.

Carlo Rovelli, a leading Italian theoretical physicist and bestselling author, discusses the revolutionary impact of Galileo Galilei on modern science. He passionately explores Galileo’s trailblazing work with the telescope and how it reshaped our understanding of the cosmos. Rovelli connects Galileo’s insights on gravity and tides with contemporary debates on black holes and quantum physics. The conversation also delves into the emotional aspects of scientific discovery, the intersection of science and politics, and the significance of engaging with societal challenges.

Montreal was a hotbed of spies and conspirators during the U.S. Civil War. IDEAS host Nahlah Ayed and investigative journalist Julian Sher, author of The North Star: Canada and the Civil War Plots Against Lincoln, tour Montreal’s past and present, tracing the city’s hidden Confederate past.

Julie Garland, a Professor of Teacher Education at the University of Toronto and a critical cultural theorist, challenges the conventional idea of childhood innocence in this engaging discussion. She argues that idealizing innocence overlooks the real difficulties children face and that they require tools to navigate their complexities. The conversation dives into the impact of social media on children's mental health and the need for critical education in a compliant society. Garland emphasizes recognizing children's agency and fostering open dialogues about their experiences.

Philip Coulter, a producer and the creative mind behind "The Song of Inverness," dives into the heart of small-town journalism. He highlights how The Inverness Oran thrives by focusing on local stories that foster community ties. With a rich history spanning nearly 50 years, the paper is a lifeline for residents, preserving their cultural identity. Coulter discusses the resilience of Inverness in the face of economic challenges and the unique ability of community newspapers to cover essential narratives often neglected by larger outlets.

Darren Stephenson, a guidance counselor at Alison Bernard Memorial High School, joins Kia Paul, a Mi'kmaq-speaking math teacher, and Noelle Johnson, the school's principal. They discuss the school’s pivotal role in Mi’kmaq language revitalization since 1998, showcasing how integration of culture in education has improved graduation rates. Emma Stevens, a graduate and Mi'kmaq singer-songwriter, shares how music contributes to language reclamation. The conversation highlights the importance of community, cultural identity, and innovative teaching methods.