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
Mar 21, 2013 • 42min
Alfred Russel Wallace
Explore the life and impact of Alfred Russel Wallace, a pioneer of evolutionary theory who formulated the theory of evolution through natural selection. Delve into his adventurous journeys to the Amazon and Malay Archipelago, his literary merit, and challenges to theological arguments. Learn about his parallel paths with Darwin in developing the theory of natural selection and his significant contributions to evolutionary biology.
Mar 14, 2013 • 42min
Chekhov
Join Melvyn Bragg and guests as they delve into Anton Chekhov's life and literary works with Professor Catriona Kelly. Explore Chekhov's unique storytelling style, societal influences, and his portrayal of characters amidst changing Russian society. Discover the intricacies of Chekhov's 'The Lady with the Little Dog' and his impact on the world of theater. Uncover Chekhov's deep connection to medicine, estates, and his profound reflections on life's fleeting beauty.
Mar 7, 2013 • 42min
Absolute Zero
Explore the quest to reach absolute zero temperature, from ancient Greek views to modern research. Discover Guillem Amonton's contributions, Michael Faraday's experiments, and the rivalry in the race to absolute zero. Learn about superfluids, quantum mechanics, and achieving temperatures below absolute zero in recent research.
Feb 28, 2013 • 42min
Pitt-Rivers
Discover the fascinating life and work of Augustus Pitt-Rivers, a Victorian anthropologist and archaeologist who believed in the evolution of human technology. Explore his meticulous excavation records, the unique artifacts at the Pitt Rivers Museum, and his lasting impact on archaeology and anthropology.
Feb 21, 2013 • 42min
Decline and Fall
Literature experts David Bradshaw, John Bowen, and Ann Pasternak Slater discuss Evelyn Waugh's Decline and Fall, exploring themes of modernity, religion, and society. They delve into the novel's dark humor, satire, and influences, highlighting character development, societal critiques, and the author's unique writing style. The podcast provides insights into Waugh's early works, influences from literary giants, and the satirical targets in the novel, offering a fascinating analysis of Decline and Fall's enduring impact.
Feb 14, 2013 • 42min
Ice Ages
Geologists Jane Francis, Richard Corfield, and Carrie Lear discuss ice ages, the cyclical nature dating back billions of years, the significance of oxygen isotopes in paleoclimatology, sea level changes tracked through coral reef evidence, Antarctica's role in forming ice sheets, the influence of ice ages on human evolution, and reflections on Earth's climate history and future challenges.
15 snips
Feb 7, 2013 • 42min
Epicureanism
Angie Hobbs, David Sedley, and James Warren delve into Epicureanism, focusing on pleasure as life's goal, atom theory, friendship, and Lucretius's influence. The discussion includes Epicurean beliefs on free will, mental tranquility, therapeutic remedies for the soul, the impact on Roman culture, and the contrast with Christianity.
Jan 31, 2013 • 42min
The War of 1812
Melvyn Bragg and experts discuss the War of 1812, its impact on American identity, The Star-Spangled Banner creation, and Native American land loss. Topics include British impressment of American sailors, British invasion of Washington, and the Treaty of Ghent. The podcast explores tensions, Jefferson's beliefs on Canada, and post-war dynamics between Britain and America.
Jan 24, 2013 • 42min
Romulus and Remus
Historian and broadcaster Melvyn Bragg and guests explore the myth of Romulus and Remus, the twin brothers abandoned as babies and nursed by a she-wolf. They discuss the conflicting versions of the story, Romulus's founding of Rome, and the enduring symbol of the she-wolf. The podcast examines the themes of exposed infants in mythology, variations in the myth, Romulus's actions in shaping Rome, and the gender dynamics and implications of the story on Roman society.
Jan 17, 2013 • 42min
Comets
Delving into the history and significance of comets like Halley's Comet. Exploring their composition, tails, orbits, and unpredictable nature. Discussing their potential role in delivering life's building blocks and the excitement around the Rosetta mission.
