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
Jan 22, 2009 • 42min
History of History
Melvyn Bragg discusses the evolution of history writing with guests. They explore ancient epics, medieval hagiographies, and modern deconstructions. The conversation touches on the transition from Herodotus to Rome-centric narratives, the historical foundations of Christianity, the intersection of Christian and classical histories, Renaissance shifts, and the representation of women in historical inquiry.
Jan 15, 2009 • 42min
Thoreau and the American Idyll
Explore Thoreau's love for nature, self-reliance, and simple living in a secluded cabin. Discover his impact on historical figures like Martin Luther King and Gandhi. Delve into his anti-slavery activism, unique farming methods, and deep connection to nature.
Jan 8, 2009 • 42min
Darwin: Life After Origins
Explore Darwin's life and work, from his botanical experiments to his global correspondence network. Delve into his studies on human evolution and sexual selection, highlighting his visionary outlook on science. Discover how Darwin's legacy transformed traditional beliefs and his impact on biology and society.
Jan 7, 2009 • 42min
Darwin: On the Origin of Species
Melvyn Bragg and guests celebrate Darwin's legacy and the impact of 'On the Origin of Species'. They discuss Darwin's hesitant approach to evolution, the parallel theories of Darwin and Wallace, the global influence of Darwin's work, the Oxford Evolution Debate, and the ongoing debate between science and religion sparked by Darwin's book.
Jan 6, 2009 • 43min
Darwin: The Voyage of the Beagle
Experts Jim Moore, Steve Jones, and David Norman discuss Darwin's voyage on the Beagle, his observations in South America, the influence of giant sloths on his theory of evolution, his relationship with Grant, and the personal struggles and secrecy surrounding his groundbreaking ideas.
Jan 5, 2009 • 43min
Darwin: On the Origins of Charles Darwin
Darwin biographer Jim Moore discusses Charles Darwin's early life, his transition from beetle collector to naturalist, the enduring friendship with his cousin, and the influences that shaped his revolutionary theory of evolution. The podcast explores Darwin's mentors, his journey into science, and the intellectual shifts that led to his groundbreaking work.
Jan 1, 2009 • 42min
The Consolations of Philosophy
Delving into Boethius' journey from despair to enlightenment, the podcast explores the consolations of philosophy in times of adversity. It discusses the impact of philosophical perspectives on sorrow and loss, the influence of Boethius on medieval literature and courtly love, and the philosophical views on liberation and rationality. The conversation also touches on Stoicism's influence on Western philosophy and how philosophers like Boethius navigate politics and find solace through philosophical contemplation.
Dec 18, 2008 • 42min
The Physics of Time
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the physics of time. When writing the Principia Mathematica, Isaac Newton declared his hand on most of the big questions in physics. He outlined the nature of space, explained the motions of the planets and conceived the operation of gravity. He also laid down the law on time declaring: “Absolute, true, and mathematical time, of itself and from its own nature, flows equably without relation to anything external.” For Newton time was absolute and set apart from the universe, but with the theories of Albert Einstein time became more complicated; it could be squeezed and distorted and was different in different places.Time is integral to our experience of things but we find it very difficult to think about. It may not even exist and yet seems written into the existence of absolutely everything. With Jim Al-Khalili, Professor of Theoretical Physics and Chair in the Public Engagement in Science at the University of Surrey; Monica Grady, Professor of Planetary and Space Sciences at the Open University and Ian Stewart, Professor of Mathematics at the University of Warwick.
Dec 4, 2008 • 42min
Heat
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the history of scientific ideas about heat. As anyone who’s ever burnt their hand will testify – heat is a pretty commonplace concept. Cups of coffee cool down, microwaves reheat them, water boils at 100 degrees and freezes on cold winter nights.Behind the everyday experience of hot things lies a complex story of ideas spread across Paris, Manchester and particularly Glasgow. It’s a story of brewing vats and steam engines, of fridges, thermometers and the heat death of the universe. But most importantly, it was the understanding and harnessing of heat that helped make the modern world of industry, engineering and technology.With Simon Schaffer, Professor of History of Science at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Darwin College; Hasok Chang, Professor of Philosophy of Science at University College London and Joanna Haigh, Professor of Atmospheric Physics at Imperial College London
Nov 27, 2008 • 42min
The Great Reform Act
Melvyn Bragg discusses the Great Reform Act of 1832, exploring the political landscape, disparities in parliamentary representation, resistance to reform, and the push for change. The Act transformed British politics, extending the vote and empowering industrial cities for the first time. The episode highlights class alliances, the birth of Chartism, and the impact of the Reform Acts of 1832 and 1867 on British democracy.
