Big Ideas

What's happening in Gaza is horrifying and shocking. As the world watches on, how are different Jewish communities reckoning with a war being waged in their name by Israel, against Hamas and the Palestinian people?This event was recorded at The Wheeler Centre on 27 May 2025 in partnership with the Jewish Council of Australia.SpeakersPeter BeinartAuthor, Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning and The Crisis of ZionismProfessor of Journalism and Political Science at the City University of New YorkEditor-at-Large of Jewish Currents MagazineFellow, Foundation for Middle East PeaceRegular contributor, New York Times and MSNBCSarah Schwartz (host)Co-founder, Executive Officer, Jewish Council of AustraliaLegal Director, Human Rights Law CentreLecturer, University of Melbourne Law School

Join Kaya Barry, a cultural geographer focusing on seasonal migrants, and Nunes Cosbar, a Timorese musician on a PALM visa, as they dive into the unseen experiences of temporary workers in Australia. They discuss the emotional challenges and aspirations faced by these workers in agriculture, alongside Ken Dachi and Ema Vueti, who advocate for community connections. Explore the complexities of the PALM scheme, including exploitation, family separations, and the cultural contributions that enrich rural communities.

Terry O'Connor and Tim Etchells, co-founders of the acclaimed British theatre company Forced Entertainment, dive into the intricate relationship between performance and authorship. They explore how a performer embodies another's words, creating emotional connections in the process. The discussion highlights the ethical nuances of voicing diverse narratives and the collaborative spirit that enriches theatrical work. Technology's role in rehearsal and the profound themes of communication and intimacy in performance further illuminate the creative landscape they navigate.

Gina Chick, author of 'We Are the Stars' and winner of Alone Australia, shares her profound journey of resilience after facing unimaginable hardships. Alongside Hugh Van Cuylenburg, founder of The Resilience Project, she discusses the transformative lessons learned from 'dark nights of the soul.' Their conversation touches on the healing power of storytelling, embracing uniqueness, and the joy found in life’s challenges. They humorously recount childhood adventures and the complexities of sibling dynamics, offering insights into self-acceptance and growth.

Mark Maguire, an anthropology professor at Maynooth University, and Setha Low, a psychology and anthropology expert at CUNY, join sociologist Alex Vitale to discuss the troubling rise of 'security capitalism.' They explore how our fear of crime drives consumer behavior, creating a paradox where perceived safety yields increased anxiety and isolation, particularly in gated communities. The conversation questions the effectiveness of surveillance technologies and advocates for community-led safety solutions that foster social solidarity, dispelling the notion that more security equals less fear.

Tasma Walton, an actor and author known for 'I Am Nannertgarrook', alongside Darren Rix and Craig Cormick, co-authors of 'Warra Warra Wai', explore the reclaiming of Indigenous narratives and identities. They discuss the impact of colonialism on First Nations families and the urgent need to restore traditional place names. Anthony Sharwood shares insights from his work on the Polish freedom fighter connected to the mountain. The conversation highlights storytelling's power in fostering cultural understanding and the emotional resilience inherited from women's histories.

Jeanine Leane, a Wiradjuri writer and poetry editor, Vicki Couzens, a Gunditjmara cultural custodian, and Evelyn Araluen, a celebrated poet and researcher, discuss the urgent revival of First Nations languages in Australia. They share personal journeys, highlighting the emotional ties to language and its pivotal role in cultural identity. The conversation touches on the significance of specific words like 'Gurundi', the challenges of funding language initiatives, and the power of collaborative authorship to amplify Indigenous voices. Language emerges as a vital tool for healing and community strength.

Award-winning composer and author Andrew Ford, host of The Music Show on ABC Radio National, dives deep into the fascinating history of music. He discusses how cultural, social, economic, and technological forces have influenced music's evolution from ancient times to today. The conversation touches on the significance of the didgeridoo and oral traditions, and challenges the idea of music as a universal language. Ford also shares insights from his book, shedding light on the emotional power of music and its transformative journey over the centuries.

In a compelling discussion, Bruce Shapiro, an award-winning journalist and Executive Director of the Dart Center for Journalism & Trauma, delves into the complex relationship between media and violence. He shares his own experience of being stabbed as a young reporter, shaping his approach to storytelling. Topics covered include the historical roots of fear in journalism, the evolution of empathetic reporting, and the ethical challenges faced by today's journalists. Shapiro emphasizes the importance of prioritizing survivor voices and the responsibilities of media in documenting trauma.

David Sinclair, a Harvard Genetics Professor and co-author of the bestselling book on aging, shares groundbreaking insights into reversing the aging process. He argues aging could be treated as a medical condition, reshaping our approach to health. Sinclair highlights the role of genetics, particularly sirtuin genes, and discusses lifestyle choices that enhance longevity. He also touches on the potential of supplements and innovative therapies, while emphasizing the societal implications of extended lifespans and the importance of health equity.