

Past Present Future
David Runciman
Past Present Future is a bi-weekly History of Ideas podcast with David Runciman, host and creator of Talking Politics, exploring the history of ideas from politics to philosophy, culture to technology. David talks to historians, novelists, scientists and many others about where the most interesting ideas come from, what they mean, and why they matter.Ideas from the past, questions about the present, shaping the future.New episodes every Thursday and Sunday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 59min
Politics on Trial: Charles Parnell vs the English
Dive into the riveting trials of Charles Parnell, whose political exoneration contrasted starkly with his personal scandal. Discover how he survived grave accusations of terrorism yet faltered in the face of infidelity. Explore the political turmoil of 19th-century Ireland as Parnell's struggles for Home Rule were undermined by a scandal that split movements and changed the course of history. Unravel the complexities of loyalty and betrayal in a dangerously decorous age that ultimately defined Parnell's legacy.

25 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 57min
Politics on Trial: The Haymarket Eight vs the Police
Explore the notorious trial of the Haymarket Eight, where eight men were unjustly convicted for a bombing they didn’t commit. Delve into the violent clashes at McCormick Reaper, igniting the fight for an eight-hour workday. Learn about the tense atmosphere leading up to the Haymarket rally, filled with worker frustrations and fears of police violence. Discover the biased jury selection process that led to a miscarriage of justice, and examine the lasting legacy of this trial on labor movements and political discourse in America.

9 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 58min
Politics on Trial: John Brown vs Slavery
The podcast dives into the gripping trial of abolitionist John Brown after his raid on Harper’s Ferry, which marked a pivotal moment leading to the Civil War. It showcases powerful speeches by Brown, Thoreau, and Douglass, addressing civil disobedience and the fight against slavery. Douglass’s evolving views on violence are examined, highlighting his call for resistance. The trial's impact on both public perception and political strategies reveals how one man's actions echoed through history, shaking the very foundations of a divided nation.

35 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 55min
Politics on Trial: Aaron Burr vs the Constitution
In this engaging discussion, historian Gary Gerstle delves into the tumultuous treason trial of Aaron Burr in 1807. He explores why Burr was never tried for killing Alexander Hamilton and the controversy around his alleged plans to invade Mexico. The dynamics between President Jefferson and Chief Justice Marshall are also examined, revealing a power struggle that shaped the trial. Ultimately, Gerstle highlights how Burr's acquittal couldn't save his political career, making this tale a compelling chapter in American history.

12 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 59min
Politics on Trial: Louis XVI vs the People
The podcast delves into the gripping trial of Louis XVI, juxtaposing it with Charles I's fate during the French Revolution. It explores Louis's strategic defense and the fierce political clash between the Girondins and Jacobins. An intriguing debate unfolds over whether he was judged as a king or a dethroned monarch. The chaotic nature of the trial reveals the complexities of revolutionary justice. Tune in to uncover how one crucial vote changed history and what this trial tells us about power dynamics and ideology.

20 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 1h 3min
Politics on Trial: Warren Hastings vs the British Empire
Dive into the dramatic impeachment trial of Warren Hastings, a pivotal event from 1788 to 1795. Discover why former allies turned against him amid allegations of corruption tied to the East India Company. The trial unraveled a tapestry of hypocrisy and political maneuvering, showcasing the elite's greed and shifting loyalties. This historical saga reveals the very roots of political accountability while drawing fascinating parallels to modern figures like Elon Musk. Prepare for a deep exploration of moral contradictions and the rise of a new aristocracy.

43 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 2min
The History of Bad Ideas: Identity
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.

34 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 1h 4min
The History of Bad Ideas: Behaviourism
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.

30 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 59min
The History of Bad Ideas: Polycrisis
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.

122 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 1h 1min
The History of Bad Ideas: Value-Free Tech
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.