Arts & Ideas

Personal Identity is at the heart of contemporary culture. Political philosophies are built around it and family history is a hobby undertaken by hundreds of thousands. Understanding where you came from is seen as central to understanding who you are. But what if the things that are uncovered are uncomfortable, upsetting or even life-changing?Matthew Sweet is joined at the Hay Festival by three writers who have hosted podcasts which raise these questions – Joe Dunthorne, whose memoir Children of Radium and BBC Radio 4 series Half Life explore his great-grandfather's work with chemical weapons; Kavita Puri, whose series Three Million told the story of the Bengal Famine, and of British culpability in it; and Jenny Kleeman, whose BBC Radio 4 podcast The Gift tells the stories of lives upended by DNA testing kits. How does the format of the podcast help them explore these complicated subjects?The Gift, Three Million and The History Podcast, Half Life are all available now on BBC Sounds Producer: Luke Mulhall

In this lively discussion, philosopher Rachael Wiseman, former politician Ann Widdecombe, emotion historian Tiffany Watt Smith, and journalist Sarah Jilani delve into the evolving concept of common sense. They explore its multifaceted interpretations across cultures and its influences on political discourse, where emotional instincts shape policy-making. The guests also touch on historical debates, critiquing the notion of common sense in relation to gender roles, and emphasize how imagination can drive social change, challenging established norms for a better society.

Political power can take many forms, from the top-down model of the Roman Empire, to operating in the democratic politics of today, to the possibilities offered by new technologies for more horizontal power structures in the future.Matthew Sweet is joined on a stage at the Hay Festival by historian Tom Holland, whose new translation of Suetonius’ Lives of the Caesars examines Roman power politics from the inside; Guto Harri, who saw the inside workings of power as Downing Street Director of Communications; Adam Greenfield, whose book Lifehouse looks at local networks of mutual aid that have emerged in response to climate crisis; and political philosopher Sophie Scott-Brown - whose book The Radical Fifties: Activist Politics in Cold War Britain is out in July.Producer: Luke Mulhall

Adam Weymouth, author of 'Lone Wolf,' shares his captivating journey tracking a wolf in the Alps, revealing the cultural and ecological significance of these creatures. Zoe Gilbert discusses wolves in mythology, showcasing their transformation from villains to symbols of balance. Ben Goldsmith advocates for rewilding, emphasizing the ecological benefits of reintroducing wolves to the UK. The conversation delves into the myths surrounding wolves, exploring themes of coexistence, female archetypes, and the complex dynamics of nature and nurturing.

Join Joe Dromey, the General Secretary of the Fabian Society, alongside Thomas Simpson, a Professor at Oxford, and Gisela Stuart, a crossbench peer, as they delve into the essence of political vision. They explore the balance between ambitious ideals and practical governance while addressing the public's yearning for reform. Jeffrey Howard shares insights on freedom and security's interplay, while Sarah Jilani advocates for revolution as a path to social change. Their discussions weave through historical examples, revealing the complexities and hopes of contemporary politics.

In a thought-provoking discussion, conflict mediator Gabrielle Rifkind and ex-army medic Ashleigh Percival-Borley provide unique perspectives on the lessons learned from past wars. Politics scholar David Runciman and peace agreements expert Nina Kasperson delve into the complexities of modern warfare and the concept of democratic peace. They explore the disconnection between society and the realities of conflict, emphasizing the need for funding dialogue over military interventions. The conversation challenges listeners to rethink the meaning of peace in today's geopolitical landscape.

Post local elections and pre VE day anniversary events across the UK, Shahidha Bari explores ideas about community. Mike Savage, Professor of Sociology at the LSE, explains how social capital enables networks and bonds among people. Selina Todd, Professor of Modern History at the University of Oxford, discusses the fracturing of working class community, community theatre and the role of women in forging connections. Phillip Blond, the Director of ResPublica and creator of the term, Red Toryism, argues for a post liberal Conservatism with community at its heart. Kirsten Stevens-Wood talks about intentional communities, including the spiritual community at the Findhorn Ecovillage, one of the largest in Britain. Kieran Yates, journalist and author, considers the ways in which communities are undermined by insecure housing.

Some people think we live in an age of decline. Matthew Sweet investigates, with guests including political journalist Tim Stanley, art critic Louisa Buck, Professor Jane Desmarais who is head of the decadence research centre at Goldsmiths, University of London, and Neville Morley, Professor of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Exeter. Plus, Matthew will talk to satirical artist Cold War Steve about his depictions of decadence in contemporary Britain.Producer: Luke Mulhall

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.

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.