In Our Time
BBC Radio 4
Spanning history, religion, culture, science and philosophy, In Our Time from BBC Radio 4 is essential listening for the intellectually curious. In each episode, host Misha Glenny and expert guests explore the characters, events and discoveries that have shaped our world.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nefertiti. Or perhaps you're looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism's early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you're interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh's famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity's cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato's concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nefertiti. Or perhaps you're looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism's early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you're interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh's famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity's cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato's concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 31, 2020 • 51min
Eclipses
In this captivating discussion, Carolin Crawford, a Public Astronomer from the University of Cambridge, Frank Close, an Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford, and Lucie Green, a Professor of Physics at University College London, delve into the wonders of solar and lunar eclipses. They explore historical beliefs, such as ancient dragons devouring the sun, while revealing how these celestial events have unveiled scientific truths. The conversation touches on critical moments in scientific history and the emotional impact of witnessing an eclipse, showcasing their profound significance.
Dec 17, 2020 • 48min
The Cultural Revolution
Joined by Rana Mitter, an Oxford expert on Chinese history, Sun Peidong, a visiting professor at Sciences Po, and Julia Lovell, a Birkbeck literature scholar, the conversation dives into the chaos of China's Cultural Revolution. They discuss how Mao's fear of bourgeois influences led to brutal internal conflicts and the rise of the Red Guards. The guests explore the tragic consequences of Mao's campaigns, the role of the Little Red Book, and the long-term impacts on modern China, highlighting the complex legacy of this tumultuous period.
22 snips
Dec 10, 2020 • 52min
John Wesley and Methodism
In this enlightening discussion, guests Stephen Plant, Eryn White, and William Gibson dive into the life of John Wesley, the methodical mind behind Methodism. They explore Wesley's revolutionary open-air preaching and its impact on Britain’s industrial landscape. The conversation touches on the theological rifts between Arminianism and Calvinism, the influence of George Whitefield, and the movement's internal divisions. Additionally, they reflect on the significant role of women and the legacy of Charles Wesley’s hymns, showcasing how Methodism reshaped religious engagement.
39 snips
Dec 3, 2020 • 50min
Fernando Pessoa
Cláudia Pazos-Alonso, an expert in Portuguese and Gender Studies, Juliet Perkins, a scholar in Portuguese Studies, and Paulo de Medeiros, a professor of English and Comparative Literary Studies, dive deep into the enigmatic world of Fernando Pessoa. They explore his unique creation of over 70 heteronyms, illustrating the complexity of identity and modernism in his work. The conversation also highlights 'saudade,' the emotional depth in 'The Book of Disquiet', and the implications of gender representation in his literary personas, revealing how Pessoa's legacy transcends borders.
14 snips
Nov 26, 2020 • 52min
The Zong Massacre
Vincent Brown, a Harvard history professor specializing in slavery, is joined by Bronwen Everill from Cambridge and Jake Subryan Richards from LSE to discuss the 1781 Zong Massacre. They reveal how the Zong crew tossed 132 enslaved Africans overboard for insurance profit, highlighting the brutality of the transatlantic slave trade. The guests explore the legal and moral outrage ignited among British abolitionists, the broader implications of prioritizing profit over humanity, and the links to modern societal issues surrounding justice and ethics.
Nov 12, 2020 • 54min
Albrecht Dürer
Join Susan Foister, Giulia Bartrum, and Ulinka Rublack as they dive deep into the life and legacy of Albrecht Dürer, a titan of German art. They explore the vibrant cultural backdrop of Nuremberg and Dürer's revolutionary approach to printmaking. Discover the fascinating story behind his iconic rhinoceros print and how Martin Luther's ideas influenced his work. The discussion also delves into the darker themes of Dürer's engravings and his quest for artistic identity amidst the challenges of his time.
Nov 5, 2020 • 52min
Mary Astell
Hannah Dawson, a Senior Lecturer in the History of Ideas, Mark Goldie, a Professor Emeritus of Intellectual History, and Teresa Bejan, an Associate Professor of Political Theory, explore the groundbreaking work of Mary Astell, the first English feminist. They discuss her advocacy for women's education and rights, critiquing the hypocrisy of Enlightenment thinkers. The conversation highlights Astell's philosophical heritage, her radical views on marriage, and how her ideas resonate with modern feminist thought.
Oct 29, 2020 • 51min
Piers Plowman
Laura Ashe, a Professor of English Literature at Oxford, Lawrence Warner from King's College London, and Alistair Bennett from Royal Holloway delve into William Langland's 'Piers Plowman.' They explore themes of doubt and salvation in a post-Black Death society, unveiling the poem's rich allegorical imagery and its critique of social hierarchies. The guests also discuss its moral complexities and resonance with modern dilemmas, connecting the dream-vision format to contemporary cinema and the ongoing quest for truth.
Oct 22, 2020 • 51min
Maria Theresa
Catriona Seth, Marshall Foch Professor of French Literature at the University of Oxford, Martyn Rady, Professor of Central European History at University College London, and Thomas Biskup, Lecturer in Early Modern History at the University of Hull, delve into the remarkable life of Maria Theresa. They discuss her rise to power, facing threats from neighbors, and her political reforms that transformed Austria. The conversation also highlights her controversial religious policies, strategic marital alliances, and the lasting impact of her reign on European society.
4 snips
Oct 15, 2020 • 53min
Alan Turing
Leslie Ann Goldberg, a Professor of Computer Science at Oxford, discusses Turing's revolutionary contributions to the field. Simon Schaffer, a History of Science expert from Cambridge, provides context for Turing's life during the repressive social climate of his time. Andrew Hodges, Turing's biographer, shares intimate insights into Turing's struggles and genius. The conversation weaves through Turing’s groundbreaking ideas, including the Turing Test for AI, and highlights his tragic legacy and influence on computing, culminating in his recognition on the new £50 note.
