Arts & Ideas

In a lively discussion, Tom Hodgkinson, editor of The Idler, advocates for leisure as a craft, while Polly Dickson explores doodling as a creative form of idleness. Katrien Devolder introduces concepts like justified effort management in a productivity-driven world. Doctor Gavin Francis connects idleness to health, revealing its role in convalescence. Cultural historian Steve Connor enriches the conversation with historical perspectives, highlighting the philosophical debates surrounding idleness as both a virtue and a societal stigma.

Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, discusses the traits of modern autocrats and their reliance on societal consent. Selina Todd critiques the 'great man' narrative, emphasizing the relational power of class. Clare Jackson highlights the limited power of historical monarchs, while Jake Subryan Richards explores the complexities of abolition and the agency of liberated Africans. Rupert Read underscores the role of networks in climate action and advocates for counterfactual thinking to inspire collective action. Together, they ponder whether individuals or structures shape history.

This discussion features Josh Cohen, a psychoanalyst and literary scholar exploring the ties between literature and relationships; Zoe Strimpel, a journalist investigating the evolving concept of family; Diarmaid MacCulloch, a historian delving into the historical and religious facets of marriage; Reetika Subramanian, a researcher examining marriage ties to economic vulnerability; and Catherine Wheatley, a philosopher analyzing the dynamics of remarriage comedies. They cover themes like the historical evolution of marriage, cultural trends, and the impact of modern pressures on relationships.

Anjana Katwa, an earth scientist and author, shares how rocks whisper tales from deep time, while Rosemary Hill delves into the cultural significance of Stonehenge's stones. Peter Frankopan explores how geology influences history and geopolitics, shedding light on resource-driven conflicts. Philosopher Graham Harman discusses stones' roles in object-oriented ontology, suggesting they have agency. Poet Sarah Jackson reflects on the poetic connection to rocks, emphasizing the need for broader geological language to address environmental justice and the hidden stories in our landscape.

Natalie Haynes, a classicist and author, discusses how ancient Greek tragedies like Medea frame revenge and reconciliation. Neuroscientist Nicholas Wright delves into the brain's instinct for revenge and its complexities. Former soldier Ashleigh Percival-Borley shares insights on military conditioning and collective reconciliation's needs. Philosopher Andy West highlights restorative justice's role in addressing trauma and breaks down Machiavelli's views on power and forgiveness. The conversation navigates the delicate balance between justice and the darker impulses of human nature.

Guests Luke Kemp, a researcher on existential risks, and Peter Hitchens, a conservative journalist, share insights on societal collapse's past and future implications. They explore real human responses to disasters, contrasting chaos with acts of collective kindness. Neville Morley discusses historical perspectives, while Phil Tinline analyzes the impact of fear on politics. Rhiannon Firth highlights grassroots movements like Occupy Sandy, emphasizing that crises reveal systemic inequalities. The group debates whether today's challenges are unique and the role of technology in escalation.

Bronwen Maddox, CEO of Chatham House, shares insights on global political trends. Lionel Barber, ex-editor of the Financial Times, discusses Masayoshi Son's visionary investments. Salma Shah, political adviser, reveals how urgency shapes government decisions. Patrick Foulis, foreign editor, questions the market's irrationalities, especially in gold prices. Philosopher Jonathan Egid examines the tension between reason and emotion in decision-making. The group dives into how irrationality drives significant political actions and market dynamics, ultimately finding value in the unpredictable.

Penny Mordaunt, a former MP and author, discusses her motivation for writing about British traditions, linking them to national identity. Ceri Houlbrook, a folklorist, emphasizes how modern customs can be authentic and relevant. Sunder Katwala examines the role of rituals in shaping patriotism. Muriel Zagha reflects on the shared experience of queuing for the Queen's funeral as a communal ritual, while Dr. Uran Ferizi shares insights on Albanian traditions and identity. The conversation explores how traditions can unify communities and adapt to modernity.

Hannah Devlin, science correspondent for The Guardian; Adam Rutherford, geneticist and broadcaster; Dr. Sandra Knapp, botanist at the Natural History Museum; Dr. Dafydd Mills Daniel, theologian specializing in 17th-century science; and Nick Spencer, author on science and religion, discuss the evolving role of science in society. They explore issues like public trust, ethical dilemmas in modern science, and the legacy of eugenics. The conversation delves into how historical contexts shaped scientific authority and the need for greater public engagement in ethical discussions.

In this enlightening discussion, poet Michael Rosen shares insights from his book on brightening daily life. Dr. Sophie Scott-Brown emphasizes small local actions as acts of hope, countering grand endeavors. Political historian Sudhir Hazareesingh reflects on resilience and moral transformation among enslaved peoples. The Rev'd Fergus Butler-Gallie offers theological perspectives, linking virtue and community with personal grace. Together, they explore what constitutes a good life through various lenses, igniting thoughtful conversations on identity and everyday joy.