Reading Our Times
Theos
Reading Our Times is the podcast that explores the books and the ideas that are shaping us today. It is hosted by Nick Spencer, Senior Fellow at the think tank, Theos.
We’re going to be talking to some of the world’s leading authors about issues like meritocracy, justice, populism, human rights, the brain, liberalism, and religion.
Above all, we'll be exploring what these books have to say about the times we live in and about the people we are.
So listen with us, and we’ll introduce you to authors, books and ideas that illuminate ourselves and our world today.
For more information about the people and ideas behind the podcast, visit https://www.theosthinktank.co.uk/about/who-we-are or follow us on Twitter @theosthinktank and @theosnick.
We’re going to be talking to some of the world’s leading authors about issues like meritocracy, justice, populism, human rights, the brain, liberalism, and religion.
Above all, we'll be exploring what these books have to say about the times we live in and about the people we are.
So listen with us, and we’ll introduce you to authors, books and ideas that illuminate ourselves and our world today.
For more information about the people and ideas behind the podcast, visit https://www.theosthinktank.co.uk/about/who-we-are or follow us on Twitter @theosthinktank and @theosnick.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 2, 2025 • 42min
What is consciousness? In conversation with Baroness Susan Greenfield
Consciousness is famously called the “hard problem” and it elicits a very wide range of (sometimes very strongly held) opinions. These range from the idea that it is little more than a trick played on us by our brain, to the idea that it is built into the very fabric of matter at the most fundamental level.How does consciousness differ from mindedness? It is all or nothing, or are there grades of consciousness? And how does it map on our ordinary, everyday lives?This week, Nick Spencer speaks to Baroness Susan Greenfield about her new book: A Day in the Life of the Brain: The Neuroscience of Consciousness from Dawn Till Dusk.You can buy a copy of her book here.
Nov 25, 2025 • 41min
What does Quantum Theory mean? In conversation with Paul Davies
Paul Davies, a Regents Professor of Physics and author of Quantum 2.0, dives deep into the mind-bending world of quantum theory. He explains how classical physics was challenged by quantum mechanics, unraveling topics like wave-particle duality and the enigmatic nature of measurement. Listen in as he discusses the bizarre implications of entanglement and even explores quantum's potential role in biology. As Davies speculates about quantum cosmology, he also ponders what all this means for our understanding of reality.
Nov 18, 2025 • 46min
Can music redeem time? In conversation with Michael Symmons Roberts
The performance of Olivier Messiaen's Quartet for the End of Time in a freezing WW2 prison camp is one of the most famous moments of 20th century music.The piece and performance spoke to audiences movingly, both then and now, of peace, God, time, and the power of music.Such questions remain powerful today. How imprisoned by time are we? In what sense does music and art enable us to transcend the constraints of our existence? What does the end of time mean?This week on Reading Our Times, Nick speaks to poet Michael Symmons Roberts about his latest book Quartet for the End of Time: On Music, Grief and Birdsong. You can buy a copy of Michael's book here.
Nov 11, 2025 • 44min
What can a life tell us about transcendence? In conversation with Clare Carlisle
The idea of transcendence is common, perhaps even universal, among human beings. But what it means (if anything) is much more debatable. There are different ways of understanding transcendence, some orthodoxly religious; others more heterodox and surprising.How should we understand transcendence? If you can be spiritual but not religious, can you experience transcendence without religion? What does it mean to live a transcendent life?This week, Nick speaks to Clare Carlisle, Professor of Philosophy at Kings College London, about her latest book 'Transcendence for Beginners'.Purchase a copy of Clare's book here.
Nov 4, 2025 • 42min
Is God nothing? In conversation with Gilbert Markus
Many of the New Atheist arrows fired in the religion wars of 2000s and 2010s hit their target well and hard. The question is, was it the right target?Believers often claim that atheists don't believe in the kind of God that they themselves don't believe in, and that the concept of God in Christian thought is altogether subtle and more sophisticated than critics give credit.What is the evidence for this? Is this more sophisticated understanding of God not simply a late, post-Enlightenment evasion? Or does the idea that "God is nothing" have deep roots?This week, Nick speaks to Gilbert Markus about his book, 'God as nothing'.Purchase a copy of Gilbert's book here.
Oct 28, 2025 • 50min
How does life work? In conversation with Philip Ball
In this enlightening discussion, science writer Philip Ball, author of *How Life Works*, challenges the traditional gene-centric view of life. He argues that the DNA blueprint metaphor is misleading and emphasizes that life functions on multiple levels. Ball explores how cells act as decision-makers with agency, using contextual information to thrive. He also delves into the implications for disease treatment, urging a shift from genetic solutions to more holistic approaches. Lastly, he reflects on the profound mystery of consciousness and the true meaning of purpose in living beings.
Oct 21, 2025 • 2min
Trailer: Series 11 of Reading Our Times
In this intriguing discussion, science writer Philip Ball delves into how life is more than just molecular interactions. Philosopher Clare Carlisle explores the mysterious facets of human existence, shedding light on transcendence. Theologian Gilbert Markus critiques both atheist and Christian fundamentalisms, highlighting the ironies within Christian theology. Together, they invite listeners to ponder the deeper questions surrounding life, reality, and human meaning.
Jul 15, 2025 • 45min
What are children for? In conversation with Anastasia Berg
Anastasia Berg, co-author of "What Are Children For?" and a researcher on parenthood, dives into the shifting perceptions of fertility in Western societies. She discusses how attitudes toward children have transformed and challenges the notion that children were merely economic security in the past. Anastasia explores why many delay or avoid parenthood, touching on cultural expectations, risk aversion, and climate anxiety. She also contemplates the profound impact of children on human flourishing, advocating for a broader understanding of their societal role.
Jul 8, 2025 • 51min
How have we come to deify choice? In conversation with Sophia Rosenfeld
Choice is so important to who we are in the West is no longer feels like something we do, so much as something we are. Deny someone choice, and it feels like you are challenging their very humanity. Where does this obsession with choice come from, historically and philosophically? What are its foundations and justifications? And has it gone too far? Can you have too much of this particular good thing? This week Nick Spencer talks with Sophia Rosenfeld about her book ‘The Age of Choice: A History of Freedom in Modern Life’ Purchase a copy of her book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Age-Choice-History-Freedom-Modern/dp/0691164711
Jul 1, 2025 • 39min
Would it matter if Christianity were eclipsed? In conversation with Rupert Shortt
Strange things are happening to Christianity in the West. Some people are talking about revival whereas others are talking about extinction. Whoever is right, the ramifications for our culture will be immense.What is happening? If we are entering a period of eclipse for Christianity, would it matter? Would it simply be strike us through the loss of beautiful buildings and moving music? Or is there something more substantial in all this? This week Nick Spencer talks with Rupert Shortt about his book ‘The Eclipse of Christianity and why it matters’ Purchase a copy of the book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Eclipse-Christianity-why-matters/dp/1399802747
