David Aaronovitch

Is the academy and our culture as a whole in need of newer, bigger ideas?Looking for a link we mentioned? It's here: https://linktr.ee/philosophyforourtimesIn the first half of the twentieth century radical thinkers, from Einstein to Schrödinger, Russell to Wittgenstein, Woolf to de Beauvoir, were transforming ideas. But many wonder where the equivalents are today and point to a deep seated flaw. Universities and research labs have become increasingly specialised and focus on small 'piecemeal advance' leaving little room for originality and big thinking. Studies confirm a bias against publishing novel research and 90% of papers remain uncited, possibly unread by anyone.Should we encourage a less specialised and broader approach to create the breakthroughs and radical ideas of the future? Do we need to change the way university appointments are made and articles reviewed to escape conventional set thinking? Or have the big theories largely been found already and have we now only to fill in the gaps?There are thousands of big ideas to discover at IAI.tv – videos, articles, and courses waiting for you to explore. Find out more: https://iai.tv/podcast-offers?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=the-new-renaissanceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Aaronovitch, award-winning journalist and author, reflects on Dylan Thomas’s Under Milk Wood and its impact on his life. He recalls hearing the radio original, explains why the medium matters, and celebrates Thomas’s musical language. They explore the play’s tender view of ordinary people, the narrator’s godlike voice, and how the work deepened his compassion.

David Aaronovitch and experts delve into the spread of avian flu H5N1 to cows in the US, discussing risks, mutation pathways to humans, pandemic potential, surveillance in cattle, and the search for Scorpion in a smuggling gang.

David Aaronovitch and Dr Ellie discuss the potential benefits of obesity jabs in reducing heart attack risks. They also talk about the new Co-op Live arena and its impact on the music industry. The podcast explores the journey of semaglutide from a diabetes drug to a weight loss wonder, highlighting regulatory challenges and the need for further research.

Journalist David Aaronovitch and a panel of experts discuss the challenges faced by Thames Water, including regulatory control, financial structures, and sustainability issues in the UK water industry. They explore the impacts of privatization, state ownership, and the need for effective regulation to ensure fair market practices and infrastructure investments.