BBC Radio Podcasts from A Point of View
On Anger
Caleb Azumah Nelson on why anger is no longer a stranger to him, but a friend.
It's all right for you
Sara Wheeler reflects on being a sibling to her brother who has a lifelong disability.
Motherland
Zoe Strimpel on crossing the rubicon into motherhood.
Work Work Work
AL Kennedy on taking on her workaholism.
Trump's Second Coming
John Gray accuses US liberals of displaying a 'reckless hubris' in the election campaign.
Michael & Tony & Me
Adam Gopnik warns of our tendency to normalise evil behaviour.
Peak Envy
Will Self reflects on an 'epidemic' of envy.
The Death and Life of Modern Martyrs
Sarah Dunant on Alexei Navalny and the creation of a modern martyr.
The Carnival Is Over
Howard Jacobson on the liberation of laughter and a world turned upside down.
Down the Rabbit Hole
Rebecca Stott reflects on what's to be gained by going 'down the rabbit hole'.
Why is my handwriting so bad?
Tom Shakespeare ponders the demise of his handwriting.
On Ritual
Sara Wheeler ponders the value of ritual and its role in improving character and society.
I See No Ships
Stephen Smith asks what's to become of Britain's naval tradition.
Identity and Theft
The theft of her backpack gets AL Kennedy thinking about questions of identity and loss.
In the Grey Zone
Mark Damazer on how we judge our political masters.
A Plate of Pfeffernusse
Zoe Strimpel on sugar's extraordinary power to bind generations.
A Lump of Coal and a Black Bun
Alex Massie on the changing face of a Scottish New Year.
Taking Time
Michael Morpurgo takes us on a frosty walk near his home in Devon.
Dearly Beloved
Will Self ponders the contemporary power of the sermon.
The Usefulness of Pessimism
John Gray argues that pessimism can be a force for change.
On the Curiosity of Children
Rebecca Stott reflects on the importance of nurturing the curiosity of children.
10,000 Steps
Adam Gopnik tells us why he's obsessed with steps... a lot of steps.
The Strangeness of Dreams
Sarah Dunant explores the elusive, individual nature of dreams.
Material World
Zoe Strimpel discusses her new-found fascination with infrastructure.
Looks Like Rain
John Connell reflects on our changing relationship with rain.
Red Squirrel Good?
Sara Wheeler questions the moral high ground of the 'nature lover'.
On Deer Stalking
Alex Massie on deer stalking and the bleak magnificence of the Scottish Highlands.
No News Is Good News
Will Self on his personal news blackout.
The Piano: A Lifetime of Wrong Notes
Sarah Dunant reflects on why she's no longer shunning Bach for Bowie.
Mixed Signals
Stephen Smith muses on HS2 and his grandfather's job on the railways.
The Wink of Dishonour
Howard Jacobson on the 'horrid fascination' of celebrity.
In the Spite House
AL Kennedy reflects on the intoxicating nature of hate.
My Love Affair with the Mysterious
Zoe Strimpel ponders the current resurgence of ghost stories.
Against the Bucket List
Will Self on the 'pernicious practice' of bucket lists.
The Trad Wife
Megan Nolan explores the trend of the 'trad wife'.
The Rationality of Monarchy
John Gray argues the case for monarchy.
Limbo
Sara Wheeler reflects on the concept of limbo.
The Tourist Trap
Sarah Dunant ponders how historic cities deal with unprecedented numbers of tourists.
Freddie Mercury's Moustache Comb
Stephen Smith on our fascination with the belongings of the rich and famous.
The Soul of a Rebel
As a seasoned protester, Trevor Phillips explores what’s wrong with protest today.
The Dragon and The Dog
Adam Gopnik reflects on the truths our dogs can teach us.
Notes on Ageing
Michael Morpurgo reflects on age as he approaches his 80th birthday.
Good Directions
AL Kennedy ponders how we deal with a never-ending cycle of bad news.
Observing Ourselves
Will Self reflects on mirrors, narcissism and human imperfection.
Midsummer and the Mysteries of Colour
As Midsummer Day approaches, Rebecca Stott examines our complex relationship with colour.
Beyoncé, Beauty and the Pursuit of Youth
Zoe Strimpel on the perils of treating youth as a commodity.
To Mow or Not to Mow
John Connell reveals how his love for his lawn gave way to letting the grass run wild.
Taking Hammer to Gill
Howard Jacobson says an attack on Eric Gill's sculpture is a failure to understand art.
The Ratings Game
Tom Shakespeare bemoans the fashion for being asked to rate everything we buy or do.
Demographic Meltdown
Sarah Dunant explores how the UK can tackle its demographic timebomb.
Dust to Dust
Rebecca Stott ponders the nature of dust, as spring sunshine sharpens the sight of it.
On Ascent
Sara Wheeler ponders what the new Carolean age will bring forth.
Abide with Yourself
Will Self on the fad of creating ever more 'cultural quarters' in our towns and cities.
In Praise of Satire
Adam Gopnik says foreign TV shows helped him appreciate the universal language of satire.
The Wisdom of Judgement
Sara Wheeler says writing a biography has proved a reminder not to judge people.
Insecurity
Megan Nolan says she was an insecure teenager, and millennial adulthood is just as uneasy.
Proportional Representation and a New Politics
John Gray makes the case for proportional representation as a means to revive our politics
Amaryllis
Howard Jacobson on why a flower has suddenly trumped exotic chocolates in his affections.
Collecting Art
Zoe Strimpel explores what lies behind her new-found impulse to collect art.
Lessons from Disaster Movies
AL Kennedy finds echoes of the disaster movies of the 70s in our current state of affairs.
Stay Weird, Britain
Trevor Phillips discusses the dangers to Britain of a new, repressive 'group-think'.
Donatello and a New Renaissance
Sarah Dunant says the Renaissance master Donatello shows us a way to learn from the past.
The Art of Getting Lost
Will Self on the pleasure of walking without purpose and the freedom of getting lost.
AI Agonistes
Adam Gopnik challenges the idea that artificial intelligence can match human creativity.
On Communal Living
Rebecca Stott asks if communal living could solve society's most pressing problems.
Masculinity: From Durkheim to Andrew Tate
Zoe Strimpel on modern masculinity and the dangers posed by the rhetoric of Andrew Tate.
Prince Harry, Love, and Me
Megan Nolan ponders a bizarre alignment between her life and that of Prince Harry.
Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now
Tom Shakespeare goes in search of some light relief from the January blues.
Nature's Pantomime
Howard Jacobson celebrates the way animals rescue us from self-importance.
Turf, Babe and Me
John Connell looks forward to becoming a father for the first time.
The End of Winter
Sara Wheeler reflects on the myriad wintry metaphors in the English language.
Chastity Belt Politics
Zoe Strimpel on a new conservative form of feminism.
On Being Tall
Will Self ponders the drawbacks of having a lofty stature.
The End of the Line
Adam Gopnik sets out to recalibrate our view of 'trusting the science'.
Who Can Herd the Cats?
David Goodhart reveals the dirty little secret of current British politics.
My Ever Growing Pile of Books
Tom Shakespeare takes himself to task over his mounting piles of unfinished books.
A Brit Abroad
AL Kennedy reflects on being a Brit these days in upstate New York.
Darkness Made Visible
Rebecca Stott reflects on our relationship with darkness, past and present.
Investigation of a Dog
Will Self reflects on fifteen years of life lessons... from his dog.
A Plea for Nuance
Sara Wheeler on the perils of entrenched positions.
Trickle Down
Howard Jacobson takes on the proponents of the horse-and-sparrow theory of economics.
Notions of Blackness
Bernardine Evaristo reflects on black 'authenticity'.
A Deadly Serious Game
Zoe Strimpel on chess, concentration and the growing conflict with Russia.
The Queen: An Acceptance of History
Michael Morpurgo reflects on the remarkable life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Female Fictions
Megan Nolan discusses the intense pressures on women writers to be attractive.
When Everybody Is Somebody
Will Self reflects on the merits of failure.
The New Age of Empire
Linda Colley argues that the age of empire is far from over.
The Samsara of Salmon
John Connell reflects on the plight of vanishing salmon and what it means for our planet
No Final Frontier
Sara Wheeler navigates the tricky issue of voice appropriation.
Dance Cocky
Howard Jacobson reflects on summer festivals, conformity and a dancing cockatoo.
Climate Change and the Fall of Icarus
Tom Shakespeare grapples with a tricky personal decision over his carbon footprint.
Chance and Opportunity
David Goodhart ponders the idea of 'smart luck'.
The Meanings of Conservatism
John Gray ponders the true meaning of Conservatism.
Billionaire Bashing
Zoe Strimpel on why we need more billionaires - the richer the better.
Driving the American Dream
Sarah Dunant reflects on a historic moment in US history - the overturning of Roe v Wade.
No-Stalgia
Will Self on why we are in thrall to nostalgia.
Birthday Blues
Howard Jacobson reflects on birthdays, ageing and Macbeth's incorrigible optimism.
Jubilee Musings
Observations on the Jubilee weekend by a bemused foreign visitor to London.
On Rubble
Rebecca Stott imagines a day when Kharkiv and other Ukrainian cities can be rebuilt.
Home from Home
Michael Morpurgo calls for a rethink on how we deal with refugees.
The War with Words
Bernardine Evaristo on news that Girl, Woman, Other may be banned in some US schools.
Basic Instincts in the House of Commons
Sarah Dunant takes the temperature of sexual equality in politics.
Reconsidering Cannabis and the Law
Will Self proposes a very British solution to the legalisation of marijuana.
The Unlistened-to Story
Howard Jacobson on why stories of truth in war cannot be ignored.
What is a Woman?
Zoe Strimpel asks the simple-yet-complex question, 'what is a woman?'
A View From Russia: All I Have To Say
The everyday repression of life in Russia, as seen by an anonymous dissident playwright.
Helpless
A L Kennedy reflects on a 1950s experiment in inducing despair.
Tolstoy in Our Time
Adam Gopnik seeks enlightenment for our time in Tolstoy's War and Peace.
Every Picture Tells a Story
Sarah Dunant on the power of images in war.
There Are No Words
Rebecca Stott on conversations with her Russian friend.
Return of the Bomb
Will Self argues that the threat of a nuclear apocalypse has never really gone away.
It's Not Their War
Sara Wheeler says that the attack on Ukraine is not the war of Russians she has known.
An Ecological Reparation
John Connell on planting trees on his family farm as reparation for years of flying.
Selective Vision
Sara Wheeler reflects on the harm done by seeing only from our own point of view.
Misopedia
Will Self deplores the British attitude to children, mixing sentimentality with cruelty
Leaving the Ivory Tower
As she leaves academia, Rebecca Stott says an audit culture is stifling universities.
The Right Side of History
Sarah Dunant asks if we should judge the past by the standards of the present - or future.
Etonian Lives Matter... but not as much as they used to.
David Goodhart rejects what he calls the 'Eton conspiracy myth'.
On Rapid Home Delivery
Zoe Strimpel reflects on the impact of rapid home delivery on the way we live our lives.
On lost souls... and mobile phones
Adam Gopnik on the quest for lost souls.
The Sea at Christmas
Howard Jacobson stares out to sea....and ponders the 'mysterious nexus of sea and Santa'.
A Sense of Home
Will Self on our fetishisation of property.
I Read the News Today, Oh Boy
Sarah Dunant discusses living on a cusp of history.
But Does it Matterhorn?
Sara Wheeler reflects on why place names matter.
More Questions Than Answers
Tom Shakespeare on University Challenge and a starter for ten.
Annoying
AL Kennedy on why everything these days is... annoying.
The Child Question
Zoe Strimpel on the binary choice of motherhood.
The Eve of Destruction
Sarah Dunant reflects on political will and its relationship to changing behaviour.
Car Hatred
Will Self on motor-mania.
Two Small Scandals
Adam Gopnik poses the question: Do you have a right to make my life into your art?
Not in My Movie
Sara Wheeler on why it's vital that research into neurodiversity is better understood.
Talking about Integration
David Goodhart ponders why we're reluctant to talk about integration.
In Praise of Mathematics
Zia Haider Rahman on why he's introducing his 5-year-old godson to mathematics.
Suffer the Children
Rebecca Stott asks if it's time to admit that some faith groups are not safe for children.
Little Amal
Michael Morpurgo tells the story of one child refugee, heading our way.
The Limits of Reason
John Gray reflects on doubt, faith and love... through the life of Arthur Balfour.
The Secret Life of Food
Sara Wheeler explores the emotional power of food.
The Creep of the On-Screen Narrative
Zoe Strimpel argues that it's time to wean ourselves off TV as a coping mechanism.
The Rhetoric of the Climate Crisis
Rebecca Stott reflects on the difficulty of communicating climate change.
A Study in Improbability
Adam Gopnik presents an extended anecdote about art, television and memory.
Rapping with a W
Howard Jacobson reflects on present wrapping
In the Dingle Peninsula
John Connell walks in the footsteps of the Irish monk, St Brendan.
Trolls Running Riot
Bernardine Evaristo argues that online trolls are poisoning human interaction.
Verrucas Optional
Sara Wheeler on why she has little time for the current fad of wild swimming.
Red Tape
Tom Shakespeare on our relationship with red tape, past and present.
The Boring Twenties
Niall Ferguson argues that predictions of a 'Roaring Twenties' may be misplaced.
The Culture War
Zoe Strimpel argues that the culture war is not a storm in a teacup.
Anti-Zionism and the Death of Tragedy
Howard Jacobson on Zionism and the disappointment of a dream.
The Arts in Our Hearts
Bernardine Evaristo on why the country's arts must be cherished.
The Past is Never Dead
Sara Wheeler rereads fifty years of diaries and ponders lessons learned.
Eavesdropping
Will Self muses on the joys of eavesdropping.
On Concrete
Rebecca Stott on why we need to rethink our love affair with concrete.
Absence of Exultation
Adam Gopnik ponders New Yorkers' response to the passing of the pandemic there.
Invisible Women
Zoe Strimpel questions some of the dominant gender narratives around the Me Too movement.
Living with Group Difference
David Goodhart reflects on group identities in the aftermath of the Sewell report.
The Age of Infantilism
Howard Jacobson reflects on the 'incorrigible unseriousness' of our age.
What are you doing here?
Michael Morpurgo on how a personal meeting shaped his views.
Reflections on my Mother's Kenwood Mixer
Rebecca Stott on memories of Angel Delight, Smash powder and an invaluable device....
The Florida Phone Call
Adam Gopnik reflects on why Tik-Tok will never be his thing.
Is that Miss or Mrs Wheeler?
Sara Wheeler argues that the Mrs-Miss distinction has no place in contemporary Britain.
The Year of Speaking Dangerously
Sarah Dunant ponders what effect this year will have on future conversation.
Sacred Cows and Sushi Rolls
John Connell reflects on how the pandemic is breaking the spell of cities.
What'll you have?
Tom Shakespeare on pubs in peril.
A Sense of an Opening
Susie Orbach on finding the right words to help get us through the pandemic.
Going Underground
Will Self on why he longs for the day he can travel again on the London underground.
A Sense of Fear
Zoe Strimpel tries to understand her sense of panic at news of Britain closing its borders
Sacking the Capitols
Sarah Dunant imagines how the storming of the US Capitol building might go down in history
The Power of Slow Storytelling
Rebecca Stott on why stories told over time seem so fitting for lockdown.
Whose Free Speech?
John Gray argues that social media bans on Donald Trump pose many risks.
A Turning Point for Democracy?
Adam Gopnik attempts to make sense of events in Washington this week.
New Year Letter from New York
Adam Gopnik on the bitter-sweet joys of cycling round Central Park.
Spiritual Pick and Mix
Bernardine Evaristo reflects on spirituality and syncretism.
Off the Map
Sara Wheeler on navigating unmapped territory.
Confessions of an Anti-Clasper
Howard Jacobson reflects on hugging, past and present.
Edible Architecture
Will Self on why he's decided to "eat" buildings
Loving the Body Fat-tastic
Bernardine Evaristo reflects on body image and the fashion industry.
Experience Trumps Facts
David Goodhart defends objective facts over personal experience.
Perpetual Lockdown
Sara Wheeler on lockdown for her brother, severely learning disabled, and others like him
Don't Mention the War
Howard Jacobson with his personal reaction to a monumental week in US politics.
Pets Aren't People!
Zoe Strimpel examines why we've become so passionately obsessed with dogs.
Brief Encounters
Will Self advocates a novel practice for our times.
The Great Conjunction
Adam Gopnik reflects on the appearance of Jupiter in the skies over Manhattan.
Reflections on My Mother's Kenwood Mixer
Rebecca Stott on memories of Angel Delight, Smash powder and an invaluable device.
The Pro-Mask Movement
Bernardine Evaristo on why wearing a mask these days is the least we can do.
What's the Magic Number?
Tom Shakespeare discusses our changing attitudes to risk.
Conspiracy Theories and a Good Hair Cut
Sarah Dunant on QAnon... and conversations with her hairdresser.
Having the 'Wrong' Politics
Zoe Strimpel discusses growing divides between our social groupings.
Thinking Otherwise
Michael Morpurgo questions whether we are educating our children or programming them.
A Fine Line
Adam Gopnik on why, during the pandemic, there's a fine line between clever... and stupid.
Tolerance: the Unfashionable Virtue
John Gray discusses why he believes liberals are turning their backs on tolerance.
The End of Progress?
Will Self reflects on how the pandemic could affect our perception of human progress.
Gender in the Blender
Bernardine Evaristo reflects on changing attitudes to gender.
The Big Benefits of Smallness
Linda Colley on why being a small nation can be an advantage.
A Hazy Shade of Winter
Rebecca Stott tells the story of 536 AD - the year the sun 'disappeared'.
Legacy Bottle Opener
Will Self discusses how the pandemic has affected our views of inheritance.
Coronavirus and Convention
Adam Gopnik discusses how the pandemic is bringing out our most conventional behaviours.
Why Black Lives Matter
Bernardine Evaristo discusses how we historicise the past
A Word of Advice
Zia Haider Rahman reflects on the comment "If you don't like it here you can always leave"
The end of university as we know it?
Mary Beard asks: Has the iconic university lecture had its day?
Inside Out
David Goodhart examines our changing attitudes to authority.
I Like It Here
Howard Jacobson takes a wry view of life under lockdown.
Waiting
Rebecca Stott reflects on how it feels being out of kilter with time.
In Praise of Cleaning
Will Self on the Great British Wipe-Up.
My Mother
Howard Jacobson on his mother's life - and death.
On Risk
AL Kennedy on how we perceive risk.
Cultural success and the Aboriginals
Will Self ponders what lessons Aboriginal culture might have for the days of pandemic.
A Few Good Trade Offs
Zia Haider Rahman discusses the moral questions facing us in lifting the lockdown
On Not Finishing
Rebecca Stott reflects on unfinished projects.
Grandad We Love You
Tom Shakespeare on becoming a grandad for the first time.
Seven Degrees of Solitude
Adam Gopnik on life in lockdown in New York.
Fighting infection with imagination
Sarah Dunant on how imagination will be a vital tool to deal with social distancing.
Cause for Hope
Michael Morpurgo on hunkering down in his cottage... waiting for coronavirus to pass.
Empty-nesters and gangsters
Adam Gopnik on his children leaving home and becoming an "empty nester".
What to do?
Tom Shakespeare asks how best to confront difficult situations.
Recline-gate
To recline - or not to recline - your seat on an aeroplane? Adam Gopnik on "recline-gate"
Inhaling History
Sarah Dunant on the romance of writing history.
An Epidemic of History
Sarah Dunant discusses the relationship between disease and the culture of history.
Sodcasting
Will Self bemoans the ever-increasing difficulty of finding a bit of peace and quiet.
Saving the planet - on hands and knees
Howard Jacobson on why he’s taken to folding plastic bags.
Anti-Semitism and the Neo Medievalists
Howard Jacobson discusses why we all need to be concerned about anti-Semitism.
The Ring of the Nibelung
Following the death of Sir Roger Scruton, a chance to listen again to one of his talks.
On Hypocrisy
Will Self explores what he sees as a growing sense of collective hypocrisy.
Getting Close to Nature
Rebecca Stott on the joys of becoming a seal warden.
The Consolations of Taxidermy
Rebecca Stott on her fascination with taxidermy.
The recurrent dream of an end-time
John Gray ponders why the belief that an end to history is imminent, never goes away.
Expectations of Democracy
Will Self on why - for the first time in his life - he didn't vote.
Conversations of a cockroach and an alley cat
John Gray reflects on the lessons today of an unusual U.S. newspaper column
Clive James: Clams are Happy
Following the death of Clive James - one of his first talks for "A Point of View".
The Sex Recession
Adam Gopnik argues that there's no need to panic about the much-discussed US sex recession
On Spam
Adam Gopnik ponders why so much of our communication these days is bereft of human warmth.
A Woman at the Last Supper
Sarah Dunant on the rediscovery of undervalued women of art.
The Great Divide
David Goodhart argues it's time to look again at our tradition of residential universities
An evening at the Death Cafe
Sarah Dunant describes an evening talking with a group of strangers about death.
Down with political packages
David Goodhart on the rise of new 'tribes' in British political life.
The Myth of Inevitability
Margaret Heffernan argues that, in the world of technology, nothing is inevitable.
The happiest days of your life...
Michael Morpurgo on the damage being caused to increasing numbers of children by stress.
Keep right on
Michael Morpurgo reflects on growing old.
Who are you looking at?
Tom Shakespeare on what it feels like to be stared at.
A Change of Tack
Tom Shakespeare on why changing your mind shouldn't be seen as a weakness.
September Anxiety
Sarah Dunant on why this year's September malaise has a different feel to it.
On Ghost Cities
Rebecca Stott discusses her fascination with abandoned or ruined cities.
Nature Red in Tooth and Claw
Rebecca Stott argues that we need to rethink our relationship with nature.
Against Theory
Will Self on why he has a problem with theory.
To the Bathroom!
Will Self ponders our infantilism regarding our toilet habits.
The Vultures of Culture
Will Self bemoans the growing commoditisation of culture in the public sector.
Leaving Florence
Sarah Dunant on why she's abandoned her beloved city of Florence.
British Populism and Brexit
John Gray asks if a no-deal Brexit is the only way out of current events.
The Language of Leaving
Howard Jacobson sets out to take back sovereignty... over words.
My People
Taking his lead from Duke Ellington, Amit Chaudhuri asks, what do we mean by 'my people'?
Distributing Status
David Goodhart argues that earlier eras have much to teach us about group solidarity.
A Knight in Shining Armour?
Linda Colley discusses the cult of charismatic leaders and why they never properly deliver
Refugee Tales
Monica Ali on the UK's use of immigration detention centres and indefinite detention.
Simply a Writer
Monica Ali explores the challenges faced by writers of colour.
Dangerous places, libraries
Val McDermid on why public libraries must be kept open.
Democracy is not in crisis
David Goodhart on why he believes democracy - far from being in crisis - is thriving.
Tackling homelessness
Val McDermid ponders how we can fix homelessness.
What Would Darwin Do?
Rebecca Stott imagines a conversation with Darwin about our environmental concerns
Get Mad, Then Get Over It!
Sarah Dunant proposes a National Anger Day – a catharsis to help us all be less… angry!
After the Fire
Joanna Robertson reflects from Paris on the days after the Notre Dame fire.
Automation...and a packet of frozen peas
AL Kennedy reflects on why automation needs to be governed by human needs and strengths.
On Holding Forth
Rebecca Stott on her pet hate – being talked AT!
Brexit: Failure to compromise
John Gray reflects on where British politics goes from here.
Where there's muck there's art
Sarah Dunant on the thorny relationship between culture and the money that supports it.
So Many Kinds of Britons: Who Knew?
Zia Haider Rahman on why Brexit has made him feel closer to Britain.
A Sense of Chaos
AL Kennedy on why we can’t afford to despair.
Calling a spade a spade
Tom Shakespeare on why we are in urgent need of a bit of plain speaking.
Cookery shows...and hungry people
AL Kennedy on TV's tendency to focus on disappearing parts of our national life.
Humour that's worth its name
AL Kennedy on how the British sense of humour is standing up to our political woes.
The Organ Recital
Will Self asks why our relationship with our bodies has become such a distant one.
The Sea Is Back
Stella Tillyard argues that the sea - long forgotten - is beginning to reassert itself.
The trouble with referendums
Val McDermid argues that referendums have had a devastating effect on our political system
Brexit and the English Revolution
Linda Colley asks if - eventually - Brexit could be the modernizing force the UK needs.
Have we reached Peak Stuff?
Stella Tillyard ponders whether we are freeing ourselves from the grip of 'things'.
The Online Password
Tom Shakespeare on the near impossible task of remembering online passwords.
To Parks
Howard Jacobson on the joys of city parks.
On Not Being Oneself
Howard Jacobson on the Cult of Self.
Money Sense
Will Self on why personal finance is an utterly alien concept.
What did you do during the environmental collapse, daddy?
Will Self ponders what we should say to our children about global warming.
The witch-hunt culture
Roger Scruton argues that political correctness is the ultimate source of our conflicts.
Speak, History!
Stella Tillyard on why history no longer seems an adequate guide to our present.
Cities of the Dead
Stella Tillyard reflects on how we bury and remember our dead.
Going into Storage
Howard Jacobson's very tricky dilemma... which of his possessions can he throw away?
Only Remembered
Michael Morpurgo ponders our future connection with the First World War.
Clothes and the Man
Howard Jacobson on the politics of clothes.
In Praise of Mooching
Howard Jacobson on the end of mooching as a way of life.
Not a good time to be a man
Howard Jacobson reflects on maleness in the aftermath of the Brett Kavanaugh story.
The Joy of Deferred Gratification
Val McDermid on why mass tourism is destroying the very thing we crave when we travel.
Fixing violence in London - Glasgow-style
Val McDermid on Sadiq Khan's plans to tackle knife crime.
Murder is not the point
Val McDermid argues that crime fiction is not really about murder at all.
Serena and the Umpire
Adam Gopnik examines the issues raised by the row between Serena Williams and an umpire.
On Prefixes
Adam Gopnik on why the prefixes we use speak volumes.
Parity of Esteem
Will Self tells the story of what happened to a friend in a psychiatric hospital.
Books do furnish a room
Tom Shakespeare is downsizing. But what to do with his books?
Bin the Bucket List
Tom Shakespeare on why he rejects the idea of a bucket list.
The Road to Peace
Michael Morpurgo discusses the importance of never taking peace for granted.
Think Again
Michael Morpurgo argues it's time to think again over Brexit.
Imagine
Michael Morpurgo on a new initiative to help refugee children.
Brexit and Illiberal Europe
John Gray argues that staying in the European Union will not protect liberal values.
The Conundrum of Inheritance Tax
Sarah Dunant on her uneasy conundrum over inheritance tax.
Cliches and Commonplaces
Adam Gopnik sets out to determine the difference between cliche and universal truth.
The Past
Will Self on why we should stop 'looking down on the inferior inhabitants of the past'.
Mindless Replicants
Will Self on consciousness, humanity and artificial intelligence.
A New Anti-Semitism
Will Self on a new wave of anti-Semitism in Britain.
Botcare
Sarah Dunant asks if robots can solve the crisis in care for the elderly.
Bobby Kennedy's Assassination - 50 years on
Alistair Cooke's incredible first-hand account of the assassination of Bobby Kennedy.
Summer in the Movies
Amit Chaudhuri reflects on why he believes modern movies lack "enchantment".
Ireland's Abortion Referendum - A Personal View
Sarah Dunant reflects on Ireland's upcoming abortion referendum.
The Brightening of History
Amit Chaudhuri on why restoration should not involve a fetishization of the new.
A Problem with Words
Stella Tillyard describes her struggle with dyslexia for the first time.
A Normal Need
Tom Shakespeare asks why disabled sexuality is still so often taboo.
The Museum of Deportation
Stella Tillyard tells the story of a small Italian museum - the Museum of Deportation.
The Mental Illness Metaphor
Tom Shakespeare on why we misuse the language of mental illness.
China and the Retreat of Liberal Values
John Gray argues that the future of the west depends on the continuing success of China.
Modern-day Empires
John Gray argues that the idea that empire has had its day is a delusion of our age.
The Rise and Rise of Up Lit
Kamila Shamsie on the limitations of the publishing trend 'Up Lit'.
The True Mark of Civilisation?
Kamila Shamsie explores the meaning of the word 'civilisation'.
Going Forward
Tom Shakespeare tells us why he detests the phrase 'going forward'.
Teffi: Silver Shoes and the Dream of Revolution
John Gray on why the work of Russian writer Teffi has become so relevant today.
The Dangers of a Higher Education
John Gray argues that throughout history intellectuals have often made the worst decisions
The Trolley Problem
AL Kennedy on how a thought experiment of the 1960s today risks being turned on its head.
Memento Mori
AL Kennedy argues why it's empowering to reflect on our mortality.
Too Much Winning
AL Kennedy argues that our 'winner-takes-all' mentality is suffocating democracy.
The Heart in Drama
AL Kennedy on why Hollywood has never been a nice place.
Daring to Marvel
Howard Jacobson on self-censoring and the language of appreciation.
On Misanthropy
Howard Jacobson ponders why misanthropy is out of fashion.
The Last Bohemia
Howard Jacobson on why we need to preserve Bohemia.
Dramatic Speech
Howard Jacobson muses on the 'frozen wastes of Emojiland'.
In Praise of the Feuilleton
Howard Jacobson on the art of the feuilleton and the joy of the ordinary.
The Novelist's Complicity
Zia Haider Rahman reflects on the demise of the literary novel.
The Assault on Reason
Zia Haider Rahman argues that reason itself is under assault in this 'post-truth' world.
A Folder Called 'Hope'
Zia Haider Rahman on the abysmal race record of some of Britain's foremost institutions.
Macbeth and the Insomnia Epidemic
Will Self reflects on the epidemic of sleeplessness.
Mass Myopia
Will Self on the drawbacks of perfect vision.
The miserable pantomime of contemporary British vegetarianism
Will Self on his conversion to vegetarianism.
Men Against Women
Will Self says we need creative solutions to end institutional misogyny and abuse.
Ode to Space
Will Self on why he loves space.
I hope this email finds you well...
Mary Beard ponders why email is governed by so few rules and conventions.
The Battle for Free Speech
Andrew Sullivan on the cultural Marxism he says is sweeping through US universities.
The Apocalypse Hasn't Happened Yet
Andrew Sullivan says Donald Trump is teaching a generation to bully, slander and cheat.
The Triumph of Tribalism
Andrew Sullivan on how America has become 'a truly tribal society'.
Talking of Empire
Monica Ali on why she thinks the history of the British Empire must be taught in schools.
On authenticity
Monica Ali reflects on the 'cult of authenticity'.
Tackling the moped menace
Monica Ali reflects on the recent surge in moped crime after her son was attacked.
The Religion of Rights
Sir Roger Scruton argues that Europe needs to rediscover its Christian roots.
The Meaning of Conservative
Roger Scruton asks: "What does the Tory Party really stand for?".
Pottering towards the new socialist state
Roger Scruton looks at the impact of Harry Potter on our world view.
Raising the Bar
Adam Gopnik on why bringing up children is an art - not a science.
On Musical Theatre
Adam Gopnik reflects on why musical theatre makes its makers miserable.
Napoleons and Normalcy
Adam Gopnik on how Donald Trump's presidency will affect our sense of what 'normal' is.
My Encounter with Shingles
Adam Gopnik on why he turned to marijuana during his recent bout of shingles.
What To Call Him?
Adam Gopnik reflects on the first six months of Donald Trump's presidency.
A Staircase in Sunlight
Adam Gopnik goes in search of a white staircase in Capri.
The Mark of a Man
Will Self reflects on what a truly gender-fluid society might look like.
After Grenfell
Will Self's personal view of high-rise buildings following the Grenfell Tower disaster.
Get Over It
Howard Jacobson on the political ironies that are emerging following the election.
A new politics?
John Gray reflects on how the election has changed politics.
Renouncing Middlemarch
Howard Jacobson on why he must renounce George Eliot's greatest novel, Middlemarch.
After Manchester
Howard Jacobson reflects on his home city's response to the Manchester attack.
The Fearsome Nature of Literary Festivals
Howard Jacobson on literary festivals and the violent nature of creativity.
In praise of the elite
Howard Jacobson speaks up in defence of the much-maligned metropolitan liberal elite.
On robots
Howard Jacobson argues that talk of the dangers of artificial intelligence is premature.
Trust in Voices
A L Kennedy commends paying attention to voices as a way to discern truth telling.
The Past in the Present
A.L. Kennedy reflects on the way our past shapes our present and our future.
The Power of Reading
AL Kennedy extols the virtues of reading and its power to encourage respect for others.
Bad News is Good Business
AL Kennedy says we should reject the media outlets that peddle only bad news.
Dementia Rights
Tom Shakespeare argues that dementia should be viewed as a disability.
The Power and Peril of Stories
Tom Shakespeare reflects on why the political populists are all master story tellers.
Sic transit
Tom Shakespeare on why we shouldn't wallow in the past.
The Screensaver of Life, or the Idling Brain
Stella Tillyard looks at the phenomenon of the "idling brain".
Flying Saucers and an Uncertain World
John Gray asks how we come to terms with a world that is frighteningly unpredictable.
The Spectre of Populism
John Gray discusses what has fuelled 'populism' today.
The Follies of Experts
John Gray on how we can prepare ourselves for an 'unknowable future'.
The fun of work - really?
Will Self on how the worlds of work and education have become seamlessly merged.
Protecting Our Way of Life
John Gray examines what lies behind our desire to protect our "way of life".
States of Confusion
Will Self on why we really should spend time worrying about why we are here.
Teaching to the test
Will Self says it's time to end "teaching to the test".
The Fourth Plinth
Will Self on the role of public art projects like the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square.
Re-launching National Service
Will Self argues for the re-introduction of National Service.
The Shape Of Our Time
Adam Gopnik explores the differences between patriotism and nationalism.
Word of 2016: People
Howard Jacobson searches for his Word of the Year.
"Baby It's Cold Outside"
Adam Gopnik on the controversy surrounding the Christmas song Baby It's Cold Outside.
Holes in Clothes
Adam Gopnik reflects on the greater significance of designer holes in jeans!
Bob Dylan and the Bobolaters
Adam Gopnik reflects on Bob Dylan's predictable lack of gratitude towards his Nobel Prize.
A Liberal Credo
Adam Gopnik muses on liberals and liberalism.
The Week Gone By
Adam Gopnik asks how America can preserve a liberal, open society.
The Trump Card
Roger Scruton assesses some of the reasons behind Donald Trump's victory.
America Votes
Adam Gopnik reflects on why he believes a Trump victory would be a disaster for America.
In Praise of Prophets of Doom
Howard Jacobson argues that dissatisfaction with life is essential.
Shylock's Mock Appeal
Howard Jacobson applauds the granting of an appeal by Shylock in a mock trial in Venice.
In Praise of Difficulty
Howard Jacobson applauds Tom Stoppard's attack on the ignorance of the average audience.
Whoop!
Howard Jacobson deplores the fashion for 'whooping' as a mark of approval.
Against Safe Spaces
John Gray reflects on the controversial 'space spaces' policy in universities.
The Real Meaning of Trump
John Gray assesses what lies behind the Trump phenomenon.
Who Cares About Independence?
Wheelchair user, Tom Shakespeare, on what it feels like to be dependent on others.
My Idea of Heaven
John Gray muses on what his idea of heaven is - and why it shouldn't be a perfect world.
Every Dog Has His Day
Tom Shakespeare reflects on how dogs can teach us a capacity for contentment.
Finding Our Roots
Will Self reflects on the joys of genealogy.
What's wrong with modern art?
Will Self explores what is wrong with contemporary art.
Act Your Age
Will Self explains why he finds it hard to always act his age.
Canaries in the Coal Mine
Tom Shakespeare gives a very personal view of prenatal screening.
Being English
The writer AL Kennedy reflects on Englishness.
Facts Not Opinions
AL Kennedy ponders the importance of facts, in a world dominated by opinion.
Brexit and our cultural identity
The historian Mary Beard reflects on whether Brexit will change our cultural identity.
Strategic Shift
Peter Hennessy sees the UK's vote to leave the EU as a profound strategic shift.
Democracy After Brexit
The philosopher Roger Scruton reflects on democracy after Brexit.
Britain, Europe and the World
The philosopher John Gray argues that Britain should look to Brexit as a new beginning.
Onora O'Neill
Onora O'Neill criticises the standard of public debate on both sides of the EU decision.
Belongings
AL Kennedy reflects on how we can sustain each other through uncertainty.
On Brexit
John Gray argues that Brexit will have a greater impact on the EU than it will on the UK.
The power of language
AL Kennedy reflects on how being able to communicate clearly is the work of a lifetime.
A Petition Against Petitions
Roger Scruton says government by petition is out of step with representative democracy.
How Should We Build?
Roger Scruton says we should prioritise beauty when building in the countryside.
I Gave It All Away
Will Self argues we should give children their inheritance when they're most in need of it
Psy Wars
A reflection on a topical issue. Will Self ponders the role of the 'psy-professions'.
Spell-checking the Futr
Self-confessed digi-drunkard Will Self on predictive texting, spellchecking and algorithms
Florence Under Water
Sarah Dunant reflects on the legacy of one of the worst floods in Florence's history.
The Power of the Pen
Sarah Dunant reflects on the demise of handwriting.
Reading Renaissance Art
Sarah Dunant argues that our current obsession with celebrity utterly undermines art.
When Is Enough Enough?
Sarah Dunant takes an historical look at avarice, in the light of the Panama Papers.
The Meaning of Time
Will Self reflects on our sense of the meaning of time.
Virtual Violence
Will Self thinks people are as violent as ever, counting the virtual and online worlds.
Allergic to Food
Finding himself on a restricted diet, Will Self reflects on the rise of food allergies.
Resolutions
Adam Gopnik struggles with his new year's resolutions to meditate and listen to good music
Human Hybrids
Adam Gopnik deplores the fashion for attacking so-called 'cultural expropriation'.
Moral Futures
Adam Gopnik thinks future generations will judge us as harshly as we judge our ancestors.
Vanilla Happiness
Adam Gopnik says the secret of happiness lies in unexpected pleasures.
Star Wars Obsession
Writer Helen Macdonald confesses to an obsession with the recent Star Wars movie.
Expert by Experience
Tom Shakespeare reflects that personal experience is the most powerful form of expertise.
Face to Face
Tom Shakespeare is concerned by what the rise of cosmetic surgery says about society.
Sing a New Song
Tom Shakespeare argues that the country needs a new national anthem.
Peerless
Tom Shakespeare suggests ways to shrink and completely reform the House of Lords.
Howard Jacobson: Wisdom
Howard Jacobson does not feel complimented when someone describes him as 'wise'.
Howard Jacobson: Sermons
Howard Jacobson would sooner see Radio 4's Thought for the Day more, not less, religious.
Howard Jacobson: Christmas
Howard Jacobson recalls a mongrel mix of traditions in his family's Christmas festivities.
Sarah Dunant: Protest, Paris, Terror
Sarah Dunant reflects on the links between protest, terrorism, climate change and Paris.
From Pot to Profit
Sarah Dunant welcomes Canada's plans to fully legalise marijuana.
Sarah Dunant: Crisis in Catholicism
Sarah Dunant sees a new crisis in the Catholic Church as a result of unchanged policy.
Roger Scruton: The Tyranny of Pop
Roger Scruton deplores the tyranny of banal and ubiquitous pop music.
Roger Scruton: Offensive Jokes
Roger Scruton argues for the freedom to make jokes that others may find offensive.
Roger Scruton: In Defence of Free Speech
Roger Scruton argues that the law on freedom of speech ought to protect heretical views.
Will Self: On Gardening
Will Self reflects on our relationship with gardens and gardening.
Will Self: Looks Matter
Will Self says people cannot pretend that looks do not matter.
Will Self: What's in a Name
Will Self reflects on the significance of names, including his own.
Will Self: A Life of Habit
Will Self sees a love of habit as a shield against the unexpected in life.
Will Self: Losing Sleep
Will Self reflects on the various reasons for his inability to sleep soundly any more.
P J O'Rourke: Presidential Candidates
PJ O'Rourke sizes up the candidates aspiring to be President of the United States.
The Abolition of Man
John Gray warns about the dangers of science that promises to enhance human abilities.
Another Kind of Atheism
John Gray discusses why it's time to rethink today's narrow view of atheism.
John Gray: Recalling Eric Ambler
John Gray frecalls the work of Eric Ambler and finds unsettling contemporary echoes.
John Gray: Euro Despair
John Gray sees the euro as a misconceived project with Greece's economy as a casualty.
Adam Gopnik: Long-Form Television
Adam Gopnik reflects on the reason for our obsession with long-form television series.
Adam Gopnik: Role Reversal
A weekly reflection on a topical issue.
Peter Aspden: In Love with Greece
Peter Aspden reflects on the emotional power of the cultural influence of Greece.
Adam Gopnik: In Praise of Privacy
Adam Gopnik reflects on the need to protect private communications in the internet age.
Adam Gopnik: Power, Persecution and Pluralism
Adam Gopnik wonders why religious people are feeling 'persecuted' by same-sex marriage.
Adam Gopnik: Family Reunions
Adam Gopnik's ten-year family reunion brings into focus the passage of time.
Adam Gopnik: Words and Music
Adam Gopnik's casts light on the mysterious relationship between words and music.
Adam Gopnik: Indispensable Man
Adam Gopnik concludes there are no indispensable people in any family or organisation.
AL Kennedy: The Worth of Education
AL Kennedy on the drive to make money out of education.
AL Kennedy: Creamola Foam remembered
AL Kennedy reflects on how age changes our view of the past and the future.
In Praise of Courtesy
AL Kennedy explores the merits of courtesy, but she points out that it can be complicated.
Politics of Hope
AL Kennedy says the election results in Scotland reflect a surge in political engagement.
Presidents as Monarchs
David Cannadine says Barack Obama is not the first American president to act like a king.
Election View
A American writer PJ O'Rourke gives his view of the UK election.
Leaders Old and Young
David Cannadine reflects on the merits of youth and age in political leaders.
Commemorative Style
David Cannadine compares the style of national commemorations in the US and in Britain.
Ideology Versus Art
Howard Jacobson explains why he prefers art to ideology, especially at election time.
Life's a Selfie
Howard Jacobson explains why he dislikes the narcissism of the selfie.
Mankle Image Crisis
Howard Jacobson thinks skimpy suits show men are suffering from a self-image crisis.
The Price of Independence
Tom Shakespeare says that disabled people's right to independent living is under threat.
Trial by Select Committee
Tom Shakespeare thinks that reformed select committees have revitalised Parliament.
Cognitive Decline
Tom Shakespeare says wisdom in middle age is some compensation for cognitive decline.
The Nature of Time
Will Self reflects on the unsettling nature of time.
Post-Image
A weekly reflection on a topical issue.
The Power of Fiction
Will Self reflects on the power of our relationship with fictional characters.
The Purpose of Satire
Will Self finds himself driven to reconsider the nature and purpose of satire.
Having Children
Will Self reflects on the growing divide between people with and without children.
Losing Touch
Will Self laments diminishing personal contact as a result of the rise of technology.
The Power of Art
AL Kennedy reflects on the power of art to sustain the human spirit.
Language and Listening
AL Kennedy reflects on the importance of learning languages and listening to one another.
Charlie Hebdo
Adam Gopnick reflects on the Charlie Hebdo massacre.
The Pursuit of Happiness
AL Kennedy reflects on what it means to pursue happiness.
Monarch's Message
David Cannadine reflects on the history of the Queen's Christmas message.
Art: The Real Thing
What constitutes real art, as opposed to kitsch or that based on fake emotions and cliche?
Kitsch
Why the fear of producing kitsch art has led to a new kind of pre-emptive kitsch.
Faking It
Roger Scruton muses on the difference between genuine art and that based on fake emotion.
Thinking the Unthinkable
John Gray argues that 'thinking the unthinkable' means exaggerating fashionable beliefs.
Dostoevsky and Dangerous Ideas
John Gray points to lessons from the novels of Dostoevsky about the danger of ideas.
Soylent and the Charm of the Fast Lane
John Gray explores why human beings crave busy lives.
Capitalism and the Myth of Social Evolution
John Gray reflects on why the advance of capitalism is not inevitable.
Cures for Anxiety
Adam Gopnik identifies four different types of anxiety that afflict modern people.
A Lesson from Love Locks
Adam Gopnik draws a lesson on the nature of love from the eyesore of love locks in Paris.
The Football Fallacy
Adam Gopnik explains why the English are better at watching football than at playing it.
Dying with Dignity
Adam Gopnick thinks we fail all too often to let people die with dignity.
Short and Successful
Adam Gopnik thinks there is a simple reason why short men enjoy stable marriages.
Keeping Time
Lisa Jardine reflects on the history of timepieces and the power of clocks and watches.
Red Dress Sense
Red may be now fashionable, but in the past it was powerful, reflects Lisa Jardine.
The Horror of War
Lisa Jardine says commemorating a war should not mean losing sight of its horror.
When fiction comes to the historian's rescue
Lisa Jardine on how fiction can be more useful than fact in helping us understand the past
Why Orwell Is the Supreme Mediocrity
Will Self takes on one of the nation's best-loved figures, George Orwell.
What's Funny?
Will Self reflects on comedy, asking what really makes us laugh.
The Affliction of Consumption
Will Self reflects on the power of modern-day consumption and the effect it has on us.
Believing in Beliefs
Will Self offers a weekly reflection on a topical issue.
The Changing Nature of Utopias
Will Self reflects on what the changing nature of utopias says about us.
Is patriotism the last refuge of the scoundrel?
Will Self reflects on what really lies behind our sense of patriotism.
Believing in reason is childish
John Gray argues that the belief in human reason is more 'childish' than religious faith.
Isis: A modern revolutionary force?
John Gray argues that the Sunni extremist group Isis is revolutionary, not reactionary.
To See Ourselves
AL Kennedy explores the downsides of personal and national introspection.
Battling the Botnets
AL Kennedy asks if it is time for us to rethink our devotion to computers.
If You Haven't Got Anything Nice to Say...
AL Kennedy argues for a world with less gossip.
No Burning Required
As libraries close, AL Kennedy argues that we must reassess the importance of books.
Bring Back the Heptarchy!
Tom Shakespeare asks if England should consider returning to an earlier order.
Should we be frightened of disability?
Tom Shakespeare argues that we have nothing to fear from disability.
Why we should be religious but not spiritual
Tom Shakespeare argues that we should be religious but not spiritual.
Testing Times
Mary Beard reflects on exam season - past and present.
The Paradox of Growing Old
Mary Beard argues that our view of dementia is a sanitized one which needs to be rethought
Digging Digitally
Mary Beard reflects on the new face of archaeology, of the virtual kind.
Mile Milestone
Mary Beard looks forward to the 60th anniversary of the first 'four-minute mile'.
Travel Writing Giants
William Dalrymple celebrates the writing of Peter Matthiessen, who died this month.
A Tale of Two Elections
William Dalrymple reflects on the current pivotal elections in India and Afghanistan.
A Lenten Reflection
For Lent, William Dalrymple compares Eastern and Western views of self-discipline.
A Disease Called Fame
Sarah Dunant reflects on fame and the cult of celebrity, following 20 Feet From Stardom.
Heavy Weather
Sarah Dunant compares our reaction today to climate change with historic responses.
The Time Warp
Sarah Dunant reflects on our changed perceptions of the sexual attitudes of the 1970s.
Free the Schools
Roger Scruton believes the way to improve schools is through middle-class volunteers.
Our Love for Animals
Professor Roger Scruton warns against favouring pets at the expense of wild animals.
United We Fall
Roger Scruton argues for a vote for the English in the debate over Scottish independence.
Money Matters
Adam Gopnik explains why he thinks the pictures on our banknotes matter.
Twitter-Free
Adam Gopnik explains his indifference to Twitter and social media.
Why Sportsmanship Matters
Adam Gopnik reflects on the nature of sportsmanship ahead of the American Super Bowl.
Self-Drive Manhood
Adam Gopnik hails the development of the self-drive car as the way to rescue his manhood.
Sex and the French
Adam Gopnik reflects on the attitude of the French to the sex lives of their statesmen.
Unknown Knowns
John Gray reflects on the things we know but prefer not to think about.
The Perils of Belief
John Gray reflects on the damage that can be caused by evangelical belief.
Two Cheers for Human Rights
John Gray gives only two cheers for human rights.
Islamo-Christian Heritage
William Dalrymple reflects on the co-habitation of Islam and Christianity.
Why Dickens Endures
John Gray gives his own theory for the cultural longevity of Charles Dickens.
It's Always the Others Who Die
Will Self reflects that our modern secular society has silenced the voices of the dead.
Political Trojan Horses
Will Self warns against politicians' policies which turn out to be Trojan horses.
Rebuilding After 9/11
Will Self gives a personal view of the new One World Trade Center in New York.
Self Confident Culture
Will Self argues for greater British cultural self-confidence in the debate over the veil.
Kennedy 50 Years On
Will Self reflects on America's view of the assassination of JF Kennedy, 50 years on.
Will Self: Pity the Young
Will Self reflects on the malign influence of the older generation on the young.
Lisa Jardine: Reflections on IVF
Lisa Jardine reflects on IVF as she stands down from the body which regulates it.
Machine Intelligence
Lisa Jardine compares the computer science legacies of Alan Turing and Ada Lovelace.
Cross Border Science
Lisa Jardine reflects on the internationalism that underpins the progress of science.
Ethical Science
Lisa Jardine draws lessons from the career of Leo Szilard, who worked on the atom bomb.
The Horror of Love
Stephen King says, 'Love creates horror.' AL Kennedy agrees.
AL Kennedy: Someone to Watch Over Me
AL Kennedy reflects on our tendency to behave badly when we think no-one is looking.
Great Pretenders
AL Kennedy reflects on the stuggle to establish truth in an age of lies.
Real Change
AL Kennedy doesn't like change. But she thinks she should change her atittude.
Of the People, By the People 4/4
Roger Scruton concludes his series of talks on the nature and limits of democracy.
Of the People, By the People 3/4
Roger Scruton continues his series of talks on the nature and limits of democracy.
Of the People, By the People 2/4
Roger Scruton continues his series of talks on the nature and limits of democracy.
Roger Scruton: Of the People, By the People 1/4
Roger Scruton argues that democracy alone is not enough for political freedom.
Machiavelli's Summer in Tuscany
Sarah Dunant on why Machiavelli wrote his seminal work 'The Prince' one summer in Tuscany.
Reforming Catholicism in 140 Characters
Sarah Dunant suggests what Pope Francis should tell his Twitter followers.
A Big Day for Bert and Ernie?
Sarah Dunant reflects on the power of a cartoon showing Bert and Ernie as a gay couple.
A Sporting Catharsis
A week after Wimbledon, amid the Ashes, Sarah Dunant reflects on sport's cathartic power.
Gender Matters
Sarah Dunant reflects on feminism and the ousting of Australia's prime minister.
Anyone for Art?
Tom Shakespeare presents the last of his four essays. Isn't it time to democratize art?
A Midsummer Daydream
Shouldn't we in Britain have better festivals? Shouldn't we celebrate Midsummer?
Fly, Fish, Mouse and Worm
Tom Shakespeare on 'model animals' and the success of the reductionism scientific strategy
Can Compassion Be Taught?
Tom Shakespeare asks if compassion can be taught, in the first of his four essays.
Gatsby: The Perfect Fake
John Gray finds new resonance for our own age in the story of 'The Great Gatsby'.
The Doors of Perception
John Gray argues for another way of seeing the world, inspired by writer Arthur Machen.
The Meaning of Evil
John Gray turns to the writer Patricia Highsmith for a perspective on the meaning of evil.
The Myth of Modernity
John Gray draws on the novels of Mervyn Peake to expose the myth of modernity.
The Limits of Materialism
John Gray draws on Walter de la Mare to argue against the creed of scientific materialism.
John Gray: Bitcoin's Cyber Freedom
John Gray wonders what the rise of the cyber currency Bitcoin tells us about ourselves.
Adam Gopnik: On Children Leaving Home
Adam Gopnik reflects on the terrible day when children leave home.
Science, Magic and Madness
Adam Gopnik on the difference between magic and science.
The Irrationality of Nations
Topical issues. Every nation has a core irrationality, or so says Adam Gopnik.
The secret of a happy marriage
Adam Gopnik presents his formula for a happy marriage - lust, laughter and loyalty.
Turkish notions
Adam Gopnik reflects on why we overrate masters and underrate mastery.
Celestial Bodies
Lisa Jardine reflects on comets and the lessons to be learned from early astronomers.
Dame Mary Cartwright
Lisa Jardine celebrates the achievements of wartime mathematician Dame Mary Cartwright.
Modern Medicis
Lisa Jardine celebrates the influence of art connoisseur Sir Denis Mahon.
The Winter Queen
Lisa Jardine celebrates Elizabeth of Bohemia, who deserves a larger place in history.
In Praise of Birmingham
David Cannadine defends Birmingham against a slur in Jane Austen's Emma.
Grand Central celebration
David Cannadine celebrates the saving of New York's century-old Grand Central station.
The Love of Bears
David Cannadine reflects on the enduring appeal of the teddy bear in contemporary culture.
Presidential Inaugurations
David Cannadine reflects on the history of American presidential inaugurations.
Urban Designs
Will Self laments what he sees as an absence of rational urban planning in our big cities.
Terminal Thoughts
Will Self wants to 'nudge society in the direction of considering suicide acceptable'.
American Ambivalence
Will Self reflects on the confused love-hate relationship between Britain and the US.
Will Self: The British Vomitorium
With the excesses of Christmas behind us, Will Self appeals for a major lifestyle change.
Economics Priesthood
Will Self warns against the false prophets of the new priesthood of economics.
Digital Past
Will Self reflects on the effect of digital technology on his perception of time.
Trustworthiness Before Trust
Onora O'Neill reflects anew on the theme of trust, the subject of her Reith lectures.
Are students getting their money's worth?
Mary Beard reflects on why 'customer satisfaction' surveys have no place in universities.
On Pompeii
Mary Beard ponders the rights and wrongs of archaeological restoration.
Mary Beard: Age of Consent
Mary Beard reflects on the arbitrary nature of some laws, including the age of consent.
Rich man, poor man
Mary Beard on the long history of the rich looking down their noses at the poor.
Understanding Contemporary China 4/4
How can the undemocratic Chinese state enjoy authority in the eyes of its population?
Who are the Chinese? 3/4
In his third talk on understanding China, Martin Jacques explores the nature of race.
What Will China Be Like as a Superpower? 2/4
In his second talk on understanding China, Martin Jacques examines the tributary system.
Understanding Contemporary China 1/4
Martin Jacques presents a personal view on how best to understand contemporary China.
Presenting the Past
Sarah Dunant reflects on the role of history in society, and how it changes over time.
Mouthing Off
Sarah Dunant takes a look at teeth through the ages, and dentistry in times of austerity.
Sweet charity
Sarah Dunant reflects on the growing importance of charity shops in times of austerity.
In Search of Prizes
Sarah Dunant explores the merit of literary prizes as the Man Booker shortlist is revealed
Policing Sex
Sarah Dunant looks at attitudes to sexual behaviour from a historical perspective.
The alchemy of memory
John Gray explores the role of memory in giving meaning to our lives.
The trouble with 'freedom'
John Gray looks at the relationship between freedom and democracy.
Sherlock Holmes and the Romance of Reason
John Gray reflects on the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes' powers of deduction.
Climate for Culture
John Gray reflects on the climate needed for culture to thrive.
Price of a Postage Stamp
Philosopher John Gray wonders what bulk buying of stamps tells us about economic gloom.
The Paradox of Immortality
John Gray reflects on the paradox of immortality as captured by the writer Theodore Powys.
Keynes' Insights
John Gray takes a fresh look at the thinking of John Maynard Keynes.
Why humans are violent
John Gray reflects on the nature of violence as an inevitable part of the human condition.
The curse of a ridiculous name
Adam Gopnik muses on life when - like him - you've been lumbered with a funny name.
Nazis - Gopnik's Amendment
Adam Gopnik reflects on our continuing obsession with the Nazis.
What to do about a bad review
Adam Gopnik ruminates on how to handle a bad review.
Beatle Time
Adam Gopnik celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Beatles.
Adam Gopnik: Embarrassing Parents: The Thirteen-Year-Old Truth
Adam Gopnik reflects on embarrassing, ridiculous and annoying parents - like himself!
On Bees and Being
Adam Gopnik muses on why Shakespeare didn't seem to know that the top bee is a girl bee.
Will Self: A right loyal toast
A week before the jubilee, Will Self reflects on the tradition of the Loyal Toast.
Europe and my quadriga-spotting tour
Will Self ponders the future of Europe, as he stands by Berlin's Brandenburg gate.
Military matters
Will Self asks what can drive political leaders into the arms of the military.
Lords, lordlings and....crumpets
Will Self explores Lords reform and the narrowing of the range of British political choice
The rights of humans... and animals
Will Self asks whether 'human rights' really exist, when they can so easily be taken away.
Challenging Intellect
Will Self says we should embrace the intellectual challenge of difficult books and art.
Jubilee Celebrations
David Cannadine reflects on the history of royal jubilee celebrations.
Cathedral Heritage
David Cannadine reflects at Easter time on the architectural glories of cathedrals.
Fat Policemen
David Cannadine reflects on the changing images of the typical policeman's size and shape.
The Fashion for Westerns
David Cannadine recalls the heyday of cinema and television Westerns.
Power of the Press
Historian David Cannadine reflects on the power of the press, past and present.
Churchill's American Speeches
Prof David Cannadine reflects on the enduring resonance of Churchill's speeches in America
David Cannadine: Why Wear a Tie?
David Cannadine compares the traditions of tie-wearing on both sides of the Atlantic.
A History of Monetary Unions
David Cannadine on the history of monetary unions and what causes success or failure.
Bankers in America
Historian David Cannadine reflects on attitudes towards bankers in America.
Anniversary Cornucopia
David Cannadine surveys the current crop of anniversaries.
Email Etiquette
Lisa Jardine reflects on the perils of over-hasty emails.
The Thatcher Story
The historian Lisa Jardine reflects on the week's events.
Volume Control
Lisa Jardine reflects on her aversion to today's new sources of noise.
The Art of Gardening
Lisa Jardine reflects on gardening's purity, and its darker, political aspect.
Information Overload
Historian Lisa Jardine reflects that information overload is not a new problem.
Glamour in Austerity
Lisa Jardine reflects on the historic power of royal glamour in times of austerity.
The Memory Business
Simon Schama reflects on how the world - ten years on - remembered the events of 9/11.
Media Malpractice
Will Self reflects on the new landscape for the press.
The Meaning of Debt
Sarah Dunant looks at different aspects of debt.
The End, yet again?
The author and philosopher John Gray on the merits of living for the present.
Carols at Christmas
Lisa Jardine reflects on the power of music to move, especially at Christmas.
Climate Change Belief
Lisa Jardine thinks selective hearing skews the debate over climate change.
Beware the Experts
Lisa Jardine recalls CP Snow's lessons on the dangers of government by experts.
Lisa Jardine: Finding Family History
The historian Lisa Jardine finds herself converted to family history.
The Oxbridge Interview
Mary Beard reflects on the purpose of the much-maligned 'Oxbridge interview'.
Reflections on Monetary Union
Mary Beard reflects on the very first monetary union, two and a half thousand years ago.
On Age and Beauty
Mary Beard takes a peek at Miss World 2011 and ponders the upsides of middle age.
Mary Beard: On Tyrants
Mary Beard on the uncanny similarities between Colonel Gaddafi and tyrants in ancient Rome
The Arms Trade
Will Self deplores the arms trade, Britain's role in it and the euphemisms around it.
Class, race and social mobility
Will Self reflects that racism is rarely a sole cause of social injustice.
In praise of wind turbines
Will Self praises the beauty of wind turbines.
Why Prisons Fail
Will Self sees an urgent need to reform the prison system.
Political party membership
Will Self attacks political party members as 'donkeys led by donkeys'.
Churchill, chance and the black dog
John Gray reflects on the chance encounters that made Churchill wartime Prime Minister.
Believing in Belief
John Gray argues that the scientific and rationalist attack on religion is misguided.
Cats, birds and humans
John Gray considers why the human animal needs contact with something other than itself.
John Gray: The revolution of capitalism
John Gray on why an increasing number of people believe that Karl Marx was right.
Kim Philby
John Gray on why Kim Philby, and so many others, have failed to predict the future.
Greece and the Meaning of Folly
The celebrated thinker John Gray gives his reflection on the meaning of folly.
The Advantages of Pessimism
Alain de Botton on why pessimism is the key to happiness.
Modern Parenting
Alain de Botton takes a witty look at modern parenting.
On Social Climbing
Alain de Botton argues that social climbing is often much more than idle pleasure-seeking.
What's in a marriage
Alain de Botton on our extraordinarily high expectations for modern marriage.
The Art of Conversation
Alain de Botton with some food for thought for a summer picnic.
In Praise of the Zoo
Alain de Botton explores the relationship between humankind and animals.
On marriage
Alain de Botton muses on why a bookish life is a poor preparation for marriage!
In Praise of the Nanny State
Alain de Botton reflects on why freedom has become our ultimate political ideal.
Are museums our new churches?
Alain de Botton asks if museums are our new churches.
The ecological sublime
Alain de Botton gives a philosopher's take on our ecological dilemmas.
'News' and concentration
Alain de Botton on our inability to concentrate.
What humanities should teach
Alain de Botton with a controversial view of the teaching of humanities in universities.
Dear Diary
Joan Bakewell celebrates the art of diary writing.
A Time for Empathy
Joan Bakewell wonders how we recover true empathy in a culture of self-regard.
Talking About Their Generation
Clive James reflects on the human condition and the need for liberal democracy to spread.
Clive James: Option Swamp
Clive James vents his frustration at automated customer systems.
Hermie's Ghost
Clive James reflects on the media coverage of man-made global warming.
Impact
Clive James warns of the dangers of a new plan for calculating funding for universities.
Spirit of the Game
Clive James reflects on the spirit in which sport is played.
Blog de Jour
Clive James reflects on the revelation of the identity of Belle de Jour.
The Man on the Fourth Plinth
Clive James celebrates the honouring of Sir Keith Park with a statue in Trafalgar Square.
High Road to Xanadu
Clive James reflects on the seductive allure of illegal narcotics.
On Strike
Clive James reflects on the postal workers' dispute.
Clive James: The Golf Ball Potato Crisp
Clive James reflects on the importance of scepticism in every walk of life.
Newsflash from the Far East
Clive James reflects on democracy, MPs' expenses and the Oxford Poetry Professorship.
Feminism and Democracy
Clive James reflects on the global responsibility of feminists in the west.
Expensive Mistakes
Clive James reflects on democracy, MPs' expenses and the Oxford Poetry Professorship.
Sheer Poetry
Clive James wonders what the Poet Laureateship says about the British attitude to poetry.
London Underground
A weekly reflection on a topical issue from Clive James.
Britain has Talent
Clive James wonders about the progress of feminism.
Reputational Damage
Clive James reflects on the resignation of the Prime Minister's senior aide Damian McBride
Bright Side of the Cane Toad
Clive James makes a case for the Cane Toad.
High-Priced Porn
Clive James gives his take on the adult film industry.
The Speeding Judge
Clive James' take on the downfall of Australian judge Marcus Einfeld.
New Year Prediction
Clive James reflects on the end of the get-rich-quick era.
Jesus
Clive James reflects on life after the grave and Shakespeare's beliefs.
It’s a Wrap
Clive James reflects on the burden of wrapping presents.
National Identity
Clive James explores the question of national identity.
Writers Room
Clive James is relieved that his office is not featured in the Writers' Rooms exhibition.
Glamourising Terror
Clive James argues that the film version of history is in danger of replacing reality.
Bad Language
Clive James turns his attention to swearing.
Robin the Hood
Clive James argues that the days of mindless Hollywood action are over.
Changing the Government
Clive James reflects on the significance of the word 'election'.
How Rich is Rich?
Clive James gives his take on yachts, the US election and James Bond.
Gaffes
Clive James explores the world of the political gaffe – past and present.
Snoop and Amy
Clive James reflects on why gifted artists become hell-bent on destroying their talent.
Instructions to the Sea
Clive James turns his attention to political intervention and Robert Mugabe.
Legal Dilemmas
Clive James on what governs the decisions about who we keep out and who we keep in the UK.
Right on the Money
Clive James turns his attention to the Royal Mail’s decision to redesign the coinage.
Terminal Terminal
Clive James on mobile phones on planes and the disastrous opening of Heathrow Terminal 5.
Pedal Power
Clive James sets a David Cameron cycling faux-pas in an unexpected historical context.
State of Law
Clive James discusses the virtues of a court decision about a man and a grape.
Private Life
Clive James on the collapse of private life and the publishing of emails and phone calls.
Princes into Battle
Clive James delves into history to reflect on Prince Harry's time in Afghanistan.
Clams Are Happy
Clive James on what makes us happy, a watermelon memory and Lawrence of Arabia.
Click on the Icon
Clive James considers the role of icons ancient and modern, focusing on film icons.
Desirable Devices
Clive James condsiders how to deal with plastic bags, hip hop music and shopping trolleys.
Smoking the Memory
Clive James on how he, reluctantly, became a non-smoker. Today he only dreams of smoking.
Harry Potter Envy
Clive James considers the physchological condition ‘JK Rowling Envy’.
Helplessly Advanced
Clive James reflects on the conundrum of living in a technologically advanced world.
Wimbledon Wisdom
Clive James enjoys the wisdom in the commentary of former Wimbledon tennis champions.
Glider Shoes
Clive James on the secret of hapiness and children's shoes with wheels in the heels.
Reflections on a Diamond Skull
Clive James gives his personal reaction to Damien Hirst’s diamond-encrusted skull.
Man-Made Beauty
Clive James reminds himself of the need to celebrate the good things in life.
Congratulations
Hoaxes work – and that’s a good reason for not liking them, says Clive James.
Torture on 24
Clive James considers torture and whether TV dramas encourage its use against terrorism.
Black Destiny
Clive James on the extra burden we risk placing on highly successful young, black Britons.
Going for Gold
Clive James criticises the high spending planned for the London 2012 Olympics.
Because She’s Worth It
Clive James takes a wry look at the world of the paparazzi.
Nob Voices, Yob Voices
Clive James comments on the way we speak English today and on a new noisy voice.
Flying People, Flagrant Piffle
Clive James reflects on the martial arts movie and meaningless violence.
Fidgets on the March
Clive James rails against changes to the names of things we rely on.
The Mind’s Construction in the Face
Clive James on what drives people who don’t obviously need to to alter their appearance.
Attack of the Wheelie Bins
Clive James reflects on man-made climate change from the standpoint of a sceptic.