Past Present Future

Philosopher Alexander Douglas, author of 'Against Identity: The Wisdom of Escaping the Self,' dives into the pitfalls of identity. He discusses why the quest for a distinct self can lead to exclusion and violence. Douglas explores Spinoza's ideas on authenticity, revealing how societal pressures can create anxiety in the pursuit of self-realization. Additionally, he reflects on the emotional nuances of identity through the lens of dementia, advocating for acceptance of change rather than a rigid self-concept.

In this engaging discussion, political philosopher Alan Finlayson explores the intriguing intersection of behaviourism and politics. He unpacks how this psychology theory evolved from Pavlov's experiments to influence modern governance through the concept of 'nudge'. Finlayson critiques traditional views of freedom in light of B.F. Skinner's vision for a community-oriented society. He also addresses the challenges posed by cognitive biases in decision-making and their implications for economic policy and societal change.

Gary Gerstle, a renowned American historian, explores the term 'polycrisis' and its emergence in the late 20th century. He delves into how this concept highlights the interconnectedness of global crises and the comfort and danger of viewing them as linked. Discussing historical perspectives, Gerstle contrasts today’s political despair with the activism of the past, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions amidst overlapping challenges. The conversation provokes thought on our collective sense of powerlessness in defining our current dilemmas.

Philosopher Shannon Vallor dives into the illusion that technology can be value-free. She argues this damaging myth allows Silicon Valley to deflect blame onto users. The discussion tackles moral complexities tied to technology, including gun laws and nuclear weapons, highlighting how these tools reflect societal values. Vallor also addresses historical fears surrounding media technology and the pressing need for accountability in the digital age. Ultimately, she advocates for a tech landscape aligned with human values where ethical interventions are paramount.

Economic historian Marc Palen joins to delve into the intriguing world of monopolies. He discusses why monopolies flourish even in competitive economies and the historical anti-monopoly movements, particularly the impactful ideas of reformer Henry George. The conversation links past struggles against monopolies to the modern tech landscape, including Silicon Valley. Plus, the origins of the board game Monopoly are explored, revealing its initial anti-monopoly intentions that have evolved over time.

Ben Jackson, a historian specializing in modern British history, delves into the intriguing origins of meritocracy. He discusses Michael Young's satirical vision of meritocracy in 1958 and its unintended evolution into a political slogan. Jackson critiques the current implications of meritocracy, exploring its impact on social equity and the divide within the Labour Party. He raises questions about who truly benefits from these ideals and examines philosophical critiques, ultimately challenging the notion of fairness in recognizing talent amid systemic inequalities.

Cultural historian Tom Wright joins to delve into the intriguing concept of charisma. He uncovers its origins in Christian theology and its evolution into a key element in politics. The discussion reveals how charm differs from charisma and why it matters today. Wright also analyzes iconic figures like Gladstone and Disraeli, illustrating how their distinct charismatic styles shaped political landscapes. The podcast critiques the contemporary dilution of charisma, questioning its implications on our understanding of authority and leadership.

Dan Snow, a renowned historian and broadcaster known for his expertise in military history, takes center stage in this engaging discussion. He debunks the myth that wars are primarily won on the battlefield and questions our fascination with decisive battles. Is Napoleon the culprit behind this narrative? The conversation also delves into the complexities of military strategy, examining famous battles like Waterloo and Hastings, and critiques the glorification of heroism in history. Prepare for some surprising insights into how conflicts are truly resolved!

Helen Lewis, a noted writer and broadcaster and author of The Genius Myth, dives into the problematic label of 'genius' and its historical misapplications. She questions the romantic notion of the 'tortured genius' and challenges the idea that individual brilliance overshadows essential collaboration behind great innovations. Lewis discusses how society often misjudges talent, exemplified through figures like Shakespeare and Dickens, revealing the limitations of celebrating genius without acknowledging the collective efforts and context that underpin true creativity.

Join economist Mark Blyth, known for his critical insights on austerity, as he unpacks the history and implications of this enduring bad idea. He explains why austerity often emerges during crises, not when economies flourish, and discusses its historical roots in events like the Great Depression and the 2008 financial crisis. Blyth critiques the effectiveness of austerity in Britain and Argentina, highlighting the paradox of strict fiscal measures during economic downturns. Discover how these policies impact public perception and the political landscape today.