TrueSciPhi

Podcast Profile: Talking Politics: HISTORY OF IDEAS

Site • RSS • Apple Podcasts
27 episodes
2020 to 2021
Median: 46 minutes
Collections: Philosophy • SciPhi-Adjacent

Description (podcaster-provided):

A new series of talks by David Runciman, in which he explores some of the most important thinkers and prominent ideas lying behind modern politics – from Hobbes to Gandhi, from democracy to patriarchy, from revolution to lock down. Plus, he talks about the crises – revolutions, wars, depressions, pandemics – that generated these new ways of political thinking. From the team that brought you Talking Politics: a history of ideas to help make sense of what’s happening today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):

➤ Political philosophy • Important thinkers • Modern politics • Historical crises • Key ideas and debates • Political change • Influence of classic texts • Analysis of societal structures

This podcast, "Talking Politics: HISTORY OF IDEAS," delves into the foundations of modern political thought by exploring significant figures and their contributions to political theory. Hosted by David Runciman, the series examines the ideas that have shaped contemporary political landscapes, ranging from historical views on democracy and the state to issues of inequality and morality.

The podcast features discussions of seminal thinkers such as Hobbes, Rousseau, and Schumpeter, providing insights into their conceptions of the state, democracy, and governance. It also tackles topics like utilitarianism, revolutionary thought, and feminist theory, as presented by philosophers such as Bentham, Marx, Engels, and MacKinnon. Cultural and social themes arise in discussions of figures like Simone de Beauvoir, exploring feminism and the dynamics of gender oppression.

The crises that have historically spurred political change, such as revolutions, wars, and pandemics, are frequently highlighted, emphasizing their role in the evolution of political theory and practice. The podcast scrutinizes political concepts like leadership, liberty, and colonialism, reflecting on works by Nietzsche, Douglass, and Fanon. Through these examinations, listeners are encouraged to consider how political ideologies have developed and continue to influence modern society.

In addition, the series includes analyses of controversial ideas, such as those of Carl Schmitt on the nature of political enemies, and considers their current relevance. Through a mix of historical context and philosophical exploration, this podcast provides audiences with an understanding of the complex interplay between political thought and real-world events, offering valuable perspectives on contemporary issues.

Episodes: