Arts & Ideas cover image

Arts & Ideas

Latest episodes

undefined
Mar 28, 2025 • 56min

The Middle Classes

Muriel Zagha, a writer and critic known for her insights into French culture, joins forces with Lisa Holdsworth, a TV scriptwriter highlighting class representation in media. Sociologist Sam Friedman examines the evolution of British elites, while Lord Willetts discusses class from economic and political angles. Finally, demographer Melinda Mills explores new research that links genetics to socioeconomic status. Together, they navigate the complexities of class identity in contemporary Britain, reflecting on personal narratives, cultural capital, and the gig economy.
undefined
Mar 21, 2025 • 57min

Isolation

Mark Vernon, a psychotherapist and author exploring solitude in Western spirituality, leads a rich discussion on isolation's historical context. Lucy Powell dives into its 18th-century roots in English literature, while Kathleen Burk examines isolationism's impact on American political identity. Catherine Coldstream shares her unique perspective from her years as a Carmelite nun, highlighting the complexity of monastic life. Jim Hoare adds insight on isolation in North Korea during modern constraints, exploring how these themes resonate deeply in our current society.
undefined
Mar 14, 2025 • 57min

Evidence

Matthew Sweet and his guests discuss our shifting relationship with evidence from the law, to science, academic study and the paranormal. He's joined by Uncanny TV presenter Danny Robins, the former Supreme Court judge Lord Sumption and author of The Challenges of Democracy and the Rule of Law, Dr Sarah Dillon from the faculty of English at the University of Cambridge. Dr Jonathan Egid philosopher at SOAS in London and Dr Anthony Milligan a philosopher at Kings College London.Producer: Lisa Jenkinson
undefined
Mar 7, 2025 • 57min

Uncertainty

Anne McElvoy and guests discuss the issue of uncertainty from scientific discovery and the space race to the shifting geopolitical landscape and how it can act as a catalyst for creativity. She's joined by the entrepreneur and author of Embracing Uncertainty, Margaret Heffernan, journalist and economist Liam Halligan, Astrophysicist Chris Lintott who also presents The Sky at Night, historian Timothy Garton Ash and Professor Victoria Donovan and author of Life in Spite of Everything: Tales from the Ukrainian East.Producer: Lisa Jenkinson
undefined
Feb 28, 2025 • 57min

A pinch of salt

Join food writer Bee Wilson, materials scientist Mark Miodownik, folklorist Zoe Gilbert, artist David Soin Tappeser, and drag superstar Baga Chipz as they explore the fascinating world of salt. They discuss its pivotal role in culinary delights, from amplifying sweet flavors to its historical significance as a preservative and cultural symbol. Dive into the hidden dangers of processed foods and enjoy salty tales from the folklore of salt and the drag stage. Experience how this simple mineral connects our past, present, and tastes!
undefined
Feb 21, 2025 • 35min

Malcolm X, life changes and flexible thinking

Ekow Eshun, a writer and curator focused on Malcolm X, joins journalist Stephen Bush and author Timandra Harkness for a thought-provoking discussion. They explore the journey of personal growth and ideological evolution, emphasizing flexible thinking in both personal and political realms. The conversation highlights Malcolm X's transformative experiences, including his shift towards pan-Africanism. They also delve into the dangers and thrills of seeking adventure, alongside the importance of dissent in politics, fostering rich dialogue on identity and belief.
undefined
Feb 14, 2025 • 57min

All we need is love

Join Dr. Susie Orbach, a renowned psychotherapist, alongside Classicist Armand D'Angour, who unpacks Plato's insights on love. Vittoria Fallanca, a Renaissance scholar, sheds light on the lesser-known god of requited love, Anteros. Catherine Wheatley and Mary Harrod dive into the evolution of romantic comedies, analyzing significant films through a philosophical lens. They explore love's complexities, the impact of social media, and the interplay between desire and commitment, revealing timeless themes in relationships that resonate today.
undefined
Feb 7, 2025 • 57min

Repetition

Join art critic TJ Clark, author known for his insights on art and politics, alongside film scholar Lucy Bolton, philosopher Clare Carlisle, and historian Anthony Seldon. They discuss the significance of repetition in art, life, and history. Clark emphasizes repeated viewing for deeper artistic appreciation. Bolton highlights themes of alienation in Chantel Akerman's film 'Jeanne Dielman.' Carlisle explores Kierkegaard's views on repetition enriching human experience, while Seldon reflects on cyclical patterns in leadership. A captivating exploration of how routines shape our perception and connections!
undefined
Jan 31, 2025 • 50min

Decision Making

Justine Greening, former UK Secretary of State for Education, shares insights on government decision-making and social mobility. Gary Stevenson, a former trader, highlights the impact of economic choices on social equity. Philosopher Constantine Sandis dives into the reasoning behind our decisions, while Professor Bill Sherman explores tarot’s historical role as a decision-making tool. Together, they reveal the intricate ties between choices, personal stories, and systemic inequalities, prompting a deeper reflection on how decisions shape our lives.
undefined
6 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 57min

Diaries

Irving Finkel, a curator at the British Museum and founder of the Great Diary Project, joins novelist and historian Sophie Coulombeau, political journalist Michael Crick, and writer Oliver Burkeman to explore the multifaceted world of diary writing. They discuss the evolution of diaries from Babylon to modern times, emphasizing their emotional significance and historical value. With insights on self-reflection, privacy, and storytelling in the digital age, the conversation highlights how diaries shape personal identity and document broader histories.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode