Big Ideas

Pioneering electronic musician and performer Laurie Anderson invites you contemplate the wonders of time. Time is one of the most impermanent forms of measurement that humans have invented to help manage our lives. We couldn't function without it. Do you feel like you're running out of time? Which way is time going? Are you able to stop time? What is the role of time  in ethics, or how you experience trauma? Laurie shares a creative conversation with twice-Booker-shortlisted author Tom McCarthy as they look to arts and literature for answers.Presented by the Rubin Museum of Art. New York CityOriginal broadcast on March 6, 2024SpeakersLaurie AndersonMultimedia artist, musician, film director and authorTom McCarthyAuthor of The Making of Incarnation (2021), Satin Island (2015),  Remainder (2005)

Hugh Mackay, a distinguished social psychologist with a remarkable 60-year career and 24 books under his belt, engages in a thought-provoking conversation about modern Australian society. He delves into pressing issues like loneliness and technology addiction, reflecting on the Baby Boomers’ impact and social fragmentation. Mackay questions the evolving perceptions of God in a secular world, critiques education funding disparities, and advocates for societal change to combat inequality. His insights provide a compelling lens on the challenges Australia faces today.

Holly Ringland, a best-selling Australian author known for "The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart", joins fellow author Kate Mildenhall to discuss unlocking creativity within everyone. They tackle the pitfalls of self-doubt and societal pressure that hinder artistic expression. The conversation reveals how vulnerability and self-compassion are essential in overcoming fear. They highlight the transformative power of art, particularly in challenging times, and advocate for diversity in the arts, emphasizing the need for inclusive voices and practices.

A wooden sarcophogas is sold in a Cairo market in the 1800s, transported to Australia, and held in a University of Sydney collection. It remains closed for over a century. And then scientists opened its lid.  What happened next? Two leading Australian Egyptologists join Natasha Mitchell to consider the ethics, history, and science of a quest to understand life and death in Ancient Egypt and get a glimpse into one woman's world over 2500 years ago. But is it really Mer-Neith-It-Es?This event was presented by the Australian Museum as part of the Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaoh's exhibition. Thanks to Liz Young, Narelle Lewis, and the museum team.Original broadcast on April 10, 2024.SpeakersRonika PowerEgyptologist and Professor of BioarchaeologyDirector, Centre for Ancient Cultural Heritage and EnvironmentMacquarie UniversityDr Constance (Conni) LordEgyptologistChau Chak Wing Museum, University of SydneyFurther information:The Australian MuseumThe Mummy Project, University of SydneyUncovering the secrets of Ancient Egypt (University of Sydney)Human remains research projectThe Mummy Project at the Chau Chak Wing Museum (Sydney University Press eBooks, 2022)

The internet was supposed to make the world more open and connected, but things seem to have taken a dark turn. Scottish author Andrew O'Hagan makes an impassioned case for the role of readers and writing as "frontline workers" in the fight for reality.These events were recorded at the Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival on 17 and 19 May 2024. Originally broadcast on Big Ideas on 18 July 2024.SpeakersAndrew O'Hagan Author Caledonian Road, Mayflies, and moreEssayist and editor-at-large of the London Review of BooksGillian O'Shaughnessy Writer, moderator, journalist

In a captivating conversation, Eric Bogle, the Scottish-born Australian folk singer-songwriter, reflects on the themes of war and humanity that permeate his work. He shares poignant insights into mortality as he nears his 80th birthday, emphasizing the importance of living fully. Bogle discusses the delicate balance of emotional expression and accuracy in songwriting, especially regarding historical events like World War I. With heartfelt anecdotes about love, friendship, and personal loss, he reveals the deeper motivations behind his music, including the world premiere of a new song.

Lawrence Chlebeck, a marine biologist and campaigner, Chris Pepin-Neff, a public policy expert, and Hannah Tait, CEO of Action for Dolphins, dive into the heated debate around shark nets in Australia. They discuss the questionable effectiveness of nets for swimmer safety against their harmful impact on marine life. The conversation takes a turn towards innovative alternatives, like drones and smart drumlines, and the sociopolitical dynamics influencing public perception of sharks, urging a more compassionate approach to conservation.

In this enlightening discussion, Professor Di Otto, a pioneer in establishing women's shelters, shares the history of Australia's women's refuge movement. Bobbie Townsend recounts her courageous escape from an abusive partner, while Vivien Johnson reflects on her founding role in the Marrickville Refuge Collective. They delve into the early activism that transformed societal attitudes towards domestic violence and highlight the importance of collective empowerment. Ludo McFerrin facilitates heartfelt insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by these extraordinary women.

Costa Georgiadis, host of ABC TV's Gardening Australia, and Andrew Cox, CEO of the Invasive Species Council, dive deep into Australia's battle with invasive species. They discuss the impact of feral animals like cats and cane toads on native biodiversity. Beyond the usual suspects, they highlight lesser-known threats like smooth newts and red fire ants. The conversation emphasizes the need for community involvement and individual responsibility in conservation efforts, advocating for active stewardship of Australia's unique landscapes.

Join writer Benjamin Law, known for his witty cultural critiques, and artist Lindy Lee, who explores her Chinese ancestry through Zen philosophies, as they dive into the fascinating world of portraiture. They discuss how portraits reflect identity and power dynamics, using examples like Vincent Namatjira's controversial piece of Gina Rinehart. The conversation also touches on the role of representation for marginalized groups, the colonial legacy in art, and personal journeys of authenticity in a postmodern landscape. A thought-provoking exploration awaits!