Big Ideas

Alexandre Lefebvre, a politics and philosophy professor at the University of Sydney and author of 'Liberalism as a Way of Life,' explores the essence of liberalism beyond politics. He argues it can shape a meaningful existence. Lefebvre discusses individualism’s roots in liberal thought and its relevance today, touching on historical influences from John Stuart Mill to modern social challenges. He delves into the balance between personal freedom and collective responsibility, highlighting how empathy can bridge social divides while examining the interplay between entitlement and equality.

Tibetan master Venerable Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche experienced terrifying panic attacks as a little boy. What did he learn about suffering, the Self, and the nature of our mind through coming to understand his own mind? He joins Natasha Mitchell along with an Indian philosopher of mind and a Sufi scholar to wrestle with the self and its dissolution.This event Beyond Self — A journey to connection and wellbeing was organised by Tergar Australia and the Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies.Original broadcast on May 22, 2024.SpeakersVenerable Yongey Mingyur RinpocheTibetan meditation master and head of the Tergar Meditation CommunityAuthor, In Love with the World: What a monk can teach you about living from nearly dying (2019)Monima ChadhaProfessor of philosophy, Monash UniversityAuthor, Selfless Minds: A Contemporary Perspective on Vasubandhu's Metaphysics (Oxford University Press, 2023)Dr Aydogan KarsSenior Research Fellow, Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, Monash UniversityAuthor, Unsaying God: Negative Theology in Medieval Islam (Oxford University Press, 2019)

A.C. Grayling, a distinguished philosopher and author, discusses profound existential questions that have puzzled humanity for centuries. He emphasizes the importance of self-examination and personal choice in leading a fulfilled life, drawing on Socratic thought. Grayling explores how individual journeys and relationships shape our experiences, advocating for personal responsibility. He introduces the concept of Ubuntu, highlighting our interconnectedness, and delves into existentialism's insights on friendship and compassion, urging listeners to find their own meaning and ethics in life.

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.