Start the Week

In The Ideological Brain Leor Zmigrod studies the impact of political ideology on the makeup and shape of the brain. She found that those on the political extremes, as well as those with the most dogmatic beliefs, display more cognitive rigidity. The historian John Rees focuses on the small group of firebrand parliamentarians at the heart of the English Civil Wars. The Fiery Spirits describes how the radical republicans influenced more moderate MPs and led to the defeat, and execution, of Charles I.2025 is the centenary of the birth of Margaret Thatcher and fifty years since she became the first woman to lead a major political party in the UK. The political commentator and broadcaster Iain Dale publishes a biography of her later this year, and questions the role of ideology within Thatcherism. Producer: Katy Hickman

The Great Auk: Its Extraordinary Life, Hideous Death and Mysterious Afterlife is the subject of Tim Birkhead’s new book. This goose-sized seabird became the favoured food of hungry sailors and hunters, and the last two were killed in 1844. But then the bird became an obsession for collectors who vied for the last skins, eggs and skeletons. Victorian hunters, explorers and collectors feature strongly in the story of the Great Auk. The writer Kaliane Bradley places the 19th century polar explorer Commander Graham Gore at the heart of her time-travelling novel, The Ministry of Time. The book is being made into a television series on BBC1 – to be aired later in the Spring. Human activity has had, and continues to have, a big impact on bird populations. While several species have gone extinct, more are classified as threatened. But a joint conservation project between farmers and wildlife organisations is looking at restoring ‘zombie’ ponds, in an effort to increase pockets of wildlife. The RSPB’s Mark Nowers helps to organise the Lost Ponds Project and is involved in the protection of turtle doves, whose numbers are vulnerable.Producer: Katy Hickman

In this engaging discussion, historian Sam Wetherell sheds light on Liverpool's decline post-WWII, revealing stories of poverty and discrimination. Jack Thorne exposes the environmental tragedies of Corby, where a steel industry's closure led to birth defects and a fight for justice. Expert Yu Jie connects these experiences to China's rise as an industrial powerhouse, urging reflections on community resilience and the lessons to be learned from Liverpool's struggles. Together, they explore the legacies of industrial decline and the complex interplay of local and global economies.

In this engaging discussion, Moudhy Al-Rashid, an author and expert on ancient Mesopotamia, delves into the origins of writing and the captivating tales preserved on cuneiform tablets. Historian Tom Holland shares insights from his new translation of Suetonius's vibrant biographies of Roman emperors, highlighting their impact on our understanding of power. Gus Casely-Hayford, director of V&A East, discusses innovative ways museums can engage the public, underscoring the timeless human desire to curate and connect with history.

In this engaging conversation, historian Emily Callaci shares insights from her book on the Wages for Housework movement, emphasizing its relevance today. Professor Rosie Campbell discusses alarming trends in public attitudes towards feminism, particularly among young men. Writer Victoria Smith critiques the kindness trend, arguing it undermines women's roles. Together, they explore persistent household labor inequalities, generational shifts in gender perceptions, and the need for structural changes in social justice, urging continued advocacy rather than complacency.

Tim Minshall, Professor of Innovation at the University of Cambridge and author of "Your Life is Manufactured," discusses the hidden world of manufacturing and its crucial role in sustainability. Bernie Bulkin, former Chief Scientist of BP and author of "The Material Advantage," shares insights on innovative materials and their importance for economic competitiveness. Meanwhile, Fiona Dear, Co-director of the Restart Project, advocates for Right 2 Repair legislation, emphasizing the need for repairable products to combat waste and promote sustainability.

Every year world leaders gather at the United Nation’s COP (the Conference of Parties) to discuss how to work together on solutions to tackle climate change. And every year the wrangling lasts into the night as it becomes clear how difficult it is to achieve consensus. In Kyoto the playwrights Joe Murphy and Joe Robertson have recreated the drama, intrigue and power plays that resulted in one of COP’s greatest successes, the Kyoto Protocol from 1997. Kyoto is on at the Soho Place Theatre until May 2025.Professor Mike Berners-Lee is an expert on the impact and footprint of carbon and has watched as countries see-saw on commitments to reduce the use of fossil fuels. In his latest book, A Climate of Truth he argues that we already have the technology to combat many of the problems, but what we’re lacking is the honesty – in our politics, our media, and our businesses – to make a real difference.But how to save the planet is not necessarily straightforward. In The Shetland Way: Community and Climate Crisis on my Father’s Islands, Marianne Brown returns home after the death of her father. She finds the islanders at loggerheads over the construction of a huge windfarm: while some celebrate the production of sustainable energy, others argue the costs are too high for the environment and local wildlife.Producer: Katy Hickman

In this engaging conversation, neuroscientist Daniel Levitin reveals the healing effects of music, particularly for conditions like Parkinson's. Nwando Ebizie, a multidisciplinary artist, discusses integrating neurological studies into her work, enhancing accessibility in music. Dance critic Sara Veale highlights the revolutionary women of modern dance in her book 'Wild Grace,' reflecting on how art can challenge traditional views of femininity and inspire social change. Together, they explore the potent connection between movement, music, and wellness.

Agnes Callard, a philosopher specializing in Socratic thought, emphasizes the power of questioning to navigate identity and ethics. Sumit Paul-Choudhury, a science writer, champions optimism as a tool for overcoming modern challenges. Keon West, a social psychologist, counters by using data to expose the persistence of racism in society, disputing the notion that it’s a fading issue. Together, they explore the interplay of philosophy, psychology, and empirical evidence in addressing these critical topics.

In this engaging discussion, award-winning novelist Naomi Alderman delves into the messy magic of human thinking, sharing insights from her series on creativity and innovation. Neurologist Adam Zeman explores the latest scientific findings on imagination and its crucial role in human cognition. Historian Michelle Aroney highlights the fascinating art of divination, showcasing how various cultures historically sought certainty through mysterious practices. Together, they unveil the complexities of human intelligence and the profound influence of imagination on our lives.