A weekly reflection on a topical issue.
Radio 4,·834 episodes
Tom Shakespeare explores the pitfalls of dramatised history and its influence on real life
Sara Wheeler argues that budget cuts risk savaging the archival heritage of the nation.
Rebecca Stott ponders the theme of migration, with help from Aristotle.
AL Kennedy reflects on chaos, noise and 'the overwhelm'.
Howard Jacobson talks linguistics and reflects on why language has turned extreme.
Mark Damazer argues that America's leadership in the world is about to be redefined.
Adam Gopnik reflects on light and dark in deepest January.
Sara Wheeler on her enduring relationship with a pair of portraits from the 15th Century.
Megan Nolan reflects on New Year's Resolutions, after rediscovering a childhood diary.
Mary Beard reflects on why so many families have their own unique Christmas traditions.
Stephen Smith goes on a subterranean excursion to ponder the state of water companies.
Zoe Strimpel on the joys of seeing the world through the eyes of a nine-month-old.
Rebecca Stott reflects on the sadness and wonder of clearing her mother's house.
John Gray argues that we urgently need a new centre ground in British politics.
Megan Nolan on the almost mystical appeal of animal escapes.
Sara Wheeler reflects on the valuable perspective offered by out-of-date guidebooks.
1. Call Me Ishmael
James Naughtie with the first of four programmes on America's restless search for meaning.
2. Words, Words, Words
The second of James Naughtie's four programmes on America's restless search for meaning.
The Old Identity
James Naughtie continues his series exploring America's restless search for meaning.
The Brink
James Naughtie recalls a meeting with an ex-CIA chief worried about the future of America
Adam Gopnik goes in search of Donald Trump's secret power, with two famous essays in hand.
Zoe Strimpel's dilemma over voting for Kamala.
Howard Jacobson argues that liberation from red tape is no way to run a country.
Megan Nolan reflects on mothers... and not mothers.
Sarah Dunant looks forward to next week's US presidential debate.
Tom Shakespeare on the humiliation of crawling.
AL Kennedy on how a passing remark has given 'weird' back its mojo.
David Goodhart argues that the days of an ever-expanding university sector are over.
Sara Wheeler reflects on the societal forces that have created the imposter syndrome.
Will Self reflects on change... and getting ready for a stem cell transplant.
