In a thought-provoking discussion, James Orr, Associate Professor of Philosophy of Religion at Cambridge, delves into the interplay between the sacred and secular. He critiques contemporary Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion policies, suggesting they may jeopardize social cohesion. Orr shares insights from his personal journey, revealing how his cosmopolitan upbringing shaped his conservative views, especially regarding Brexit. He emphasizes the importance of virtues and community in modern identity, sparking a stimulating conversation around tradition and belief.

James Longman, ABC Foreign News Correspondent and author of 'The Inherited Mind,' shares his journey through the emotional toll of conflict journalism. He reflects on being a gay journalist in hostile environments and the challenges this poses. The conversation delves into his family's history with mental illness, exploring the interplay of genetics and environment. Longman emphasizes the need for compassionate support and the importance of navigating trauma, ultimately shedding light on the significant impact our backgrounds have on mental health.

Freya India, a Gen Z writer known for her insightful pieces in The Spectator and her popular Substack, dives into the identity crisis confronting her generation. She discusses how family breakdowns, especially parental divorce, shape emotional resilience. The role of social media in identity formation complicates matters, with online personas creating pressures. Freya also examines the intersection of individualism and community, addressing the unique mental health struggles that arise in today's tech-driven world, particularly for young women seeking meaning.

Listeners delve into the intricate world of faith, exploring how to embrace doubt as a path to growth. They confront the age-old issue of loneliness and its impact on community and relationships. The discussion touches on inclusivity versus exclusivity in religion, and how different beliefs can coexist. The transformative power of prayer is examined, emphasizing its role in navigating life's uncertainties. Lastly, laughter is celebrated as a healing force, underscoring the importance of humor in connecting with others.

Clementine Morrigan, a writer, moral philosopher, and host of 'Fucking Cancelled,' joins Elizabeth for a captivating discussion. They explore the intersections of Christianity with modern issues like sexuality, addiction, and trauma. Clementine shares insights on the value of empathy and dialogue in navigating complex societal norms. The conversation delves into the relationship between spirituality and sobriety, highlighting practices like ecstatic dance as transformative. Ultimately, they advocate for compassion and understanding in addressing conflicts and embracing diverse perspectives.

In this engaging discussion, the hosts invite listeners to share their questions for an upcoming Ask Me Anything session. They emphasize the importance of community input and express enthusiasm for reconnecting in the new year. With warm holiday wishes, they create a sense of anticipation for the insights and answers that will follow. The interactive element is sure to draw in listeners eager to participate.

Join Alex O'Connor, a.k.a. Cosmic Skeptic, a philosopher known for his critical views on religion, along with former Archbishop Rowan Williams and philosophy professor Philip Goff. They dive into the intricacies of God, atheism, and life's purpose. The discussion tackles love as the essence of creation, the debate on divine existence through the lens of fine-tuning, and the problem of suffering. Their dynamic conversation also weaves in personal journeys of faith, the evolution of Christianity, and existential quests, making for a profound exploration of belief and understanding.

Join Jon Yates, author of "Fractured" and founder of a youth charity, as he dives into the pitfalls of sticking with 'people like us.' He reveals the dangers of echo chambers and societal division, drawing on personal experiences and insights from community programs. Yates highlights the importance of empathy and inclusivity, especially in schools, and discusses how we can break free from our comfort zones. Discover practical ways to embrace diversity and foster meaningful connections for a more cohesive society.

Daryl Davis shares a unique perspective on the motivations behind white supremacy and what it takes to see the gradual transformation of KKK members. Hosts Elizabeth Oldfield and Alex Evans, delve into the extraordinary story of Daryl Davis, a Blues musician who has spent decades befriending and dialoguing with members of the Ku Klux Klan. Driven by a deep curiosity to understand the roots of racism, Daryl has taken an unconventional approach, choosing empathy and open communication over confrontation. Discover the profound impact one person can have in bridging the divide and fostering greater understanding between communities. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 📕 See Daryl's work: https://www.daryldavis.com/

Sarah Ditum, a writer and columnist for The Times, shares her journey through feminism and the troubling 'upskirt decade' that objectified women in media. She analyzes how contemporary pornography shapes cultural attitudes and reflects on the evolving roles of women in celebrity culture. Ditum emphasizes the importance of disagreement in journalism and how personal experiences, such as motherhood, have influenced her views on feminism. This insightful conversation offers a critical look at societal narratives surrounding misogyny and women's autonomy.