God Forbid

The modern welfare state emerged in Australia some 100 years ago, but it remains a subject of intense ideological, philosophical and even religious debate.Guests:Verity Archer, ​​lecturer in social work, community and human services at Federation UniversityEve Vincent, anthropologist at Macquarie University, author of Who Cares? Life on Welfare in AustraliaJohn Falzon, Senior Fellow Inequality and Social Justice at the Per Capita think tank, former CEO of St Vincent De Paul Society Australia

Evolving digital technologies have supercharged our anxieties around privacy and surveillance. These concerns may feel new, but they have always existed. Privacy is central to human dignity, intimacy and wellbeing - but in a world of ever-evolving technologies - is privacy in its death throes? Guests: Anita Allen, Professor of Law and Philosophy, University of Pennsylvania Hugh Breakey, Professor of Philosophy, Griffith University David Vincent, Professor Emeritus, Open Universities UK, author of Privacy: A Short History 

Exploring the roots and evolution of fairy tales, from Greek oral traditions to modern adaptations. Discussion on themes, characters, and cultural reflections within fairy tales. Delving into the intersection of religion, morality, and storytelling in ancient traditions. Reflecting on the evolution of Grimm's fairy tales and their adaptation over time. Highlighting the transformation of fairy tales in modern culture, offering fresh insights and cultural critiques.

What would make religious spaces more accessible for people with disabilities? Transcript available at the ABC God Forbid website.Guests: Carly Findlay OAM, writer, speaker and activistProfessor John Gilroy, ARC Research Fellow in Indigenous Disability and Community Development at the University of SydneyDr Louise Gosbell, a disability theologian and Research Manager at the Australian College of Theology

Cleansing rituals are a part of every major religion – from baptisms to Islamic Wudu, to bathing in sacred rivers. Where do these rituals come from and what do they mean to the faithful? 

From the sacred remains of saints to the revered memorabilia of celebrities and  sporting stars, relics are objects that act as a kind of a bridge between the material and spiritual world.  But why do religious and non-religious people alike gather to venerate these objects? Is it macabre, superstitious, or simply human?  

Surrogacy – carrying and giving birth to a baby for someone else – has been around at least since biblical times. But as the industry and fertility science advances, Christians and feminists remain divided on the issue.  

Why are so many Australians passionate about fishing? Is it simply the thrill of the catch or is there something deeper that keeps us hooked?

Love feels the same now as thousands of years ago, yet the rules around it are changing. On God Forbid, join James Carleton and the panel as they explore love in ancient times, to romance and dating today.

Exactly where do ideas and creative inspiration come from? ANd how do we explain when someone is 'blocked'; when the creative line goes dead? And what can be done about it?