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Past Present Future

Latest episodes

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May 8, 2025 • 57min

Ideas of Globalisation: Central Banks vs the People (and Trump!)

Leah Downey, a political and economic theorist, delves into the intricate role of central banks, particularly the Federal Reserve, in shaping globalisation. She discusses how the Fed navigates its obligations to American democracy against global economic responsibilities. The conversation explores the impact of the euro dollar, the historical tension between central bankers and political officials, and the implications of the Volcker shock. Downey also examines the evolving relationship between monetary policy and national politics, hinting at insights into Trump's influence on these dynamics.
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22 snips
May 4, 2025 • 1h 2min

Ideas of Globalisation: Hoover and Smoot-Hawley (and Trump!)

Historian Gary Gerstle dives into the tumultuous legacy of the Smoot-Hawley Act of 1930, revealing how it worsened the Great Depression and shifted political power in U.S. tariff policy. He explores why President Hoover failed to halt its protective measures and discusses the tensions between idealism and cynicism in American politics. Gerstle also connects historical tariff battles to today’s political landscape, raising questions about the limits of presidential authority and the dangers of isolationism in a global economy.
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32 snips
May 1, 2025 • 58min

Ideas of Globalisation: Chamberlain and the Tariff Wars (and Trump!)

Historian Robert Saunders joins to discuss Joseph Chamberlain's controversial tariff reforms in early 20th-century Britain, which nearly split his party. He draws fascinating parallels with Trump's recent tariff wars, exploring how historical precedents shape contemporary political debates. The conversation also delves into the ideological battles within the Conservative Party and the impact of trade on national identity and class politics. Moreover, Saunders critiques the notion that tariff reforms primarily benefit the working class, highlighting the role of elite interests in these discussions.
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47 snips
Apr 27, 2025 • 1h

Ideas of Globalisation: Trade, Race and Empire (and Trump!)

Join economic historian Marc Palen as he delves into the intriguing world of 19th-century globalization and its connections to today's political landscape, especially under Trump. Discover the clash between economic nationalists and free trade advocates, and question whether globalization ever benefitted everyone or just select groups. Palen discusses the implications of imperialism on trade policies and the rise of protectionism, drawing parallels to contemporary issues like Brexit and U.S.-Canada relations. It's a fascinating journey through history that mirrors our current debates!
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66 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 56min

The History of Revolutionary Ideas: Lenin and Trotsky

In this engaging discussion, historian Edward Acton, a specialist in modern Russia, dives deep into the intertwined lives of Lenin and Trotsky. He unpacks their radicalization, examining how personal tragedies shaped their revolutionary beliefs. The conversation highlights their contrasting views on party structure and the role of the working class, revealing the ideological rift that eventually developed. Acton also shares insights into their pivotal moments during the 1917 revolution and the legacy of their revolutionary theories.
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67 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 1h 4min

PPF Live Special: Churchill – The Politician With Nine Lives w/Robert Saunders

Historian Robert Saunders, a specialist in 20th century British politics, dives into the tumultuous life of Winston Churchill. He discusses Churchill's dramatic shifts from disgrace to pivotal leadership during WWII, exploring his complex legacy and controversial relationships within politics. The conversation highlights Churchill's dual role in supporting the welfare state while advocating free-market values and his diplomatic strategies to engage the United States in war. Saunders also critiques conventional narratives, revealing the intricacies behind Churchill's persona.
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10 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 47min

The History of Revolutionary Ideas: The Rite of Spring w/Dominic Dromgoole

Dominic Dromgoole, author of 'Astonish Me! First Nights that Changed the World', joins the conversation to dissect Stravinsky’s 'The Rite of Spring'. He delves into the chaotic premiere in 1913, exploring the audience’s outrage and Nijinsky's artistic boldness. The chat also touches on the broader cultural tensions of the time, antisemitism, and the significance of this revolutionary work in modern art. Dromgoole shares insights on how the premiere foreshadowed the societal upheaval to come in 1914 and the unexpected ties to American presidential history.
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26 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 46min

The History of Revolutionary Ideas: Ubu Roi w/Dominic Dromgoole

Dominic Dromgoole, a writer and theatre director, dives into the explosive premiere of Alfred Jarry’s 'Ubu Roi' in 1896 Paris, which sparked a riot and redefined theatre. He explores why this absurd play, likened to a schoolboy's creation, resonated so deeply with audiences. From its chaotic reception to the innovative use of language and costume, Dromgoole articulates how the performance challenged authority and embraced hilarity. He connects this theatrical upheaval to broader cultural shifts, emphasizing the lasting impact of absurdity in art.
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45 snips
Apr 13, 2025 • 43min

The History of Revolutionary Ideas: Salon Des Refusés w/Dominic Dromgoole

Dominic Dromgoole, a renowned theatre director and writer, delves into the revolutionary Salon des Refusés from 1863. He discusses how Emperor Napoleon sponsored this provocative art show, which sparked public outrage. The conversation highlights Edouard Manet's game-changing painting, 'Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe,' and its bold challenge to conventional norms. Dromgoole sheds light on the clash between traditional art and new voices, showcasing how this landmark event set the stage for the rise of Impressionism and transformed the artistic landscape.
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73 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 56min

The History of Revolutionary Ideas: Marx and the Paris Commune

Bruno Leipold, a historian and author of 'Citizen Marx', dives deep into Karl Marx's revolutionary ideas and the 1871 Paris Commune. He discusses how the Commune redefined democracy and exemplified a workers' uprising. Leipold explores the tension between Marx's vision of self-governance and the brutal failure of the Commune, emphasizing the importance of international solidarity for transformative movements. He also sheds light on the crucial role women played in seeking social emancipation and the evolving ideals of governance that emerged from the revolutionary fervor.

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