Laurie Taylor explores the latest research into how society works and discusses current ideas on how we live today.
Episodes available:
Indefinitely 
Wed, 22 May 13
Duration:
29 mins
Live music - from Dance Hall to the 100 Club. Laurie Taylor talks to writer and Professor of Music, Simon Frith, co-authors of The History of Live Music in Britain. They discuss the evolving nature of musical fashions; the impact of developing technologies and the balance of power between live and recorded music businesses. Dr Catherine Tackley, musician and lecturer, and Caspar Melville, lecturer in Global Cultural Industries, join the debate.
Wed, 15 May 13
Duration:
29 mins
Stammering and identity - Dr Clare Butler discusses her research on how people who stammer learn to control, conceal and rise above the stigma of a style of speech which departs from the norm. Also, poverty in the US - why does America have more poor people than any other developed country? Laurie Taylor talks to Monica Prasad about her new book, 'The Land of too Much; She contends that a particular tradition of government intervention in America has undermined the development of a European-style welfare state. They're joined by Professor of Social Policy, Peter Taylor-Gooby, who provides a British perspective.
Wed, 8 May 13
Duration:
29 mins
Middle class enclaves and escapes. In this special edition partly recorded at the British Sociological Association's 2013 conference Laurie Taylor discusses research into the various manifestations of the desire for enclaves, escapes and the 'good life'. Maggy Lee talks about the rapid expansion of residential tourism and 'lifestyle migration' between Hong Kong and mainland China. Nick Osbaldiston looks at 'lifestyle migrants' in Australia who move to small, mainly coastal communities. And Ceren Yalcin explores the proliferation of 'sealed off' housing complexes in Istanbul. They're joined by Rowland Atkinson who has done extensive research into gentrification, gated communities and housing inequality.
Wed, 1 May 13
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor discusses the 'Great British Class Survey' and debates the merits of this new approach to class stratification with Mike Savage, Professor in Sociology at the LSE and one of the survey researchers. They are joined by Professor Colin Mills, lecturer in Sociology at Nuffield College, Oxford and Beverley Skeggs, Professor of Sociology at Goldsmiths College, London. Also, Professor Dick Hobbs offers a tribute to the eminent criminologist, Geoff Pearson who died recently.
Wed, 24 Apr 13
Duration:
29 mins
The Power of oil - Laurie Taylor presents a special programme which explores the role of oil in shaping our society, economy and environment. He talks to James Marriott of Platform, co-author with Mika Minio-Paluello of 'The Oil Road'. They're also joined by Timothy Mitchell whose work focuses on the relationship between democracy and oil; and by Professor John Urry, whose latest work pioneers a sociology of energy, analysing our carbon addiction in the light of ever dwindling resources.
Wed, 17 Apr 13
Duration:
29 mins
Heritage politics in the UK - Laurie Taylor talks to Ruth Adams, the author of a new study which argues that the heritage lobby has transformed the architectural heritage of the aristocracy from a minority interest to a cause with popular support? Also, Dr Caroline Gatrell discusses her sociological exploration of the everyday lives of modern day parish priests. She is joined by Bishop Nigel Peyton, co-author with Caroline of a new book ‘Managing Clergy Lives’.
Wed, 10 Apr 13
Duration:
29 mins
Dr Tracey Jensen charts the rise of 'new thrift' projects in popular culture; how to do more with less in an age of austerity. Also,'Thatcherism' - Laurie Taylor is joined by Dr Robert Saunders, co-editor of Making Thatcher’s Britain and Geoff Andrews, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Studies to discuss Margaret Thatcher’s ideology and its impact on academic research and universities.
Wed, 3 Apr 13
Duration:
29 mins
Women in combat - Laurie Taylor explores gender and the military in the light of the US decision to allow women into the frontline of battle. He talks to Anthony King, Professor in Sociology at the University of Exeter; Christopher Coker, Professor of International Relations at the London School of Economics and Joanna Bourke, Professor of History at Birkbeck College.
Wed, 27 Mar 13
Duration:
29 mins
The geographer, Kendra Strauss, discusses her research into the origins and rise of gang labour in the UK. Professor of Human Geography, Ben Rogaly joins the discussion. Also, Industrial Ruination. Laurie Taylor talks to Alice Mah about her comparative study into urban dereliction in three contrasting contexts - Newcastle, UK; Niagara Falls, Canada; and Ivanova, Russia.
Wed, 20 Mar 13
Duration:
29 mins
The language of food politics, Professor Guy Cook explains how our choices and beliefs about what we eat are influenced by the persuasive power of words. Also, an Italian food market - Rachel Black talks to Laurie Taylor about her ethnographic account of Porto Palazzo, one of Europe's largest outdoor markets. Professor Sophie Watson currently studying street markets and joins the discussion.
Wed, 13 Mar 13
Duration:
29 mins
The Guatemalan cemetery with no more room. Anthropologist Kevin O'Neill discusses the harsh effects of an aggressive policy of disinterment when poor relatives can't pay the dues. Also, Art Auctions - How do auctioneers and buyers transact sales in seconds? Laurie Taylor talks to Professor Christian Heath about his study into the tools and techniques which lead to the strike of a hammer. They're joined by the arts writer and critic, Georgina Adams.
Wed, 6 Mar 13
Duration:
29 mins
Drugs for life - Laurie Taylor explores the growing medicalization of our everyday lives. Anthropologist, Joseph Dumit talks about his research into the burgeoning consumption of medicine in the US. John Abraham, British sociologist and co-director of the Centre for Research in Health and Medicine (University of Sussex) joins the discussion. Also, hanging on to a subcultural identity - teds, mods, punks or goths… - when youth has passed. Professor Angela McRobbie analyses the phenomenon.
Wed, 27 Feb 13
Duration:
29 mins
Katherine Appleford discusses her research on class, motherhood and fashion - how mothers influence their daughters' fashion choices. Also, 'Red Racisms' - Laurie Taylor talks to the Professor Ian Law, about his study of racism in Communist and Post-Communist countries. They're joined by the historian, Michael Stewart.
Wed, 20 Feb 13
Duration:
29 mins
The growth of 'Chav' or 'Ned' Pride in Scotland. Laurie Taylor talks to Sociologist, Robert Young, who contends that some young Scots are proudly adopting the 'Ned' label as a mark of sub cultural rebellion. Steph Lawlor, who has also studied the 'chav' phenomenon, joins the discussion. Also, Weapon Dogs - Laurie considers whether status canines are the new urban menace when he talks to Simon Harding author of 'Unleashed’.
Wed, 13 Feb 13
Duration:
29 mins
Stan Cohen (1942-2013) - his work and legacy. Howard Becker, Stuart Hall and Conor Gearty pay tribute to Stan Cohen, a friend, colleague and one of the most significant sociologists of our times. Laurie Taylor is joined in the studio by three younger academics, Dr Karen Lumsden, Dr David Scott and Dr Claire Moon to discuss Stan Cohen's on-going influence.
Wed, 6 Feb 13
Duration:
29 mins
Organised crime in the UK - Professor Dick Hobbs, joins Laurie Taylor, to discuss his study into 'Dogtown', a composite of several overlapping neighbourhoods in East London where activity which was once the preserve of professional criminals has now been normalised. They consider whether or not the idea of organised crime has become outdated. Also, the Mafia in the UK, Dr Felia Allum explores the extent to which Italian organised crime functions outside its territory of origin.
Wed, 30 Jan 13
Duration:
28 mins
Bolt Wars', rock climbers in conflict. Lisa Bogardus describes a battle for the cliffs in which climbers clash about the need to reduce risk and danger. Also, Russian women prisoners. Sociologist, Judith Pallot, talks to Laurie Taylor about a study of prisoners and officers in different regions of Russia. They discuss how vast distances between prisons and women’s homes impact on women and their families. They're joined by the criminologist, Dr Sharon Shalev.
Wed, 23 Jan 13
Duration:
29 mins
Class and commuting. Simon Abernethy discusses his research into the history of the London Underground where the mixing of classes was once seen as revolutionary. Also, Climate change - what lies beneath its widespread denial? Laurie Taylor talks to Sally Weintrobe, the editor of the first book of its kind which explores the social and emotional explanations for this reaction? They're joined by the Professor of Social Policy, Paul Hoggett.
Wed, 16 Jan 13
Duration:
28 mins
Neo Liberalism – its birth and development. Laurie Taylor talks to Daniel Stedman Jones about the origins of Neo liberal economics. Also, What does the 'love of difference' via music contribute to contemporary perspectives on racism? Jo Haynes speaks about the complex relationship between race and music. Professor Paul Gilroy joins the discussion.
Wed, 9 Jan 13
Duration:
29 mins
Contagion - Laurie Taylor talks to Mark Harrison, about the close intertwining between trade and germs from the 14th century to today, the development of public health in the Western world and the global misuse of quarantines for political ends. Also, do young men working in retail represent a new model of masculinity? Laurie talks to sociologist, Steven Roberts who found evidence of a new and softer kind of masculinity. They’re joined by Professor Valerie Walkerdine.
Wed, 2 Jan 13
Duration:
28 mins
Consumer pleasures - in a New Year special edition, Laurie Taylor explores the place of shopping in our lives, as well as within sociological thought. He's joined by Professor Colin Campbell, Dr Kate Soper and Professor Rachel Bowlby.
Wed, 26 Dec 12
Duration:
29 mins
Intoxication. Why do so many people chose to alter their consciousness with stimulants, whether legal or illicit? Laurie Taylor explores the role and meaning of both alcohol and drugs in human life with three experts James Mills, author of 'Cannabis Nation', Professor of criminology Fiona Measham and Chris Hackley author of influential research articles on binge drinking.
Wed, 19 Dec 12
Duration:
29 mins
Military Migrants. Laurie explores the impact of our increasingly multinational armed forces. Vron Ware and Les Back discuss with Laurie. Also, Deborah Butler discusses her research on female jockeys.
Wed, 12 Dec 12
Duration:
29 mins
British politics, heritage and history. Laurie Taylor explores the divergent stories political parties tell about our history with Emily Robinson who contends that politicians' manipulation of the past leaves them unable to speak of different futures. They are joined by Mary Riddell, Assistant Editor of the Telegraph. Also, Allison James talks about her research on the experience of sick children in hospital.
Wed, 5 Dec 12
Duration:
29 mins
Tim Strangleman discusses his study into work identity and 'loss': how older railway workers have reacted to change in their industry. Also, How to be Gay - Laurie Taylor talks to David Halperin author of a new book which charts and celebrates gay male identity and culture and explores the way in which a gay male sensibility subverts mainstream culture, from Grand Opera to Broadway Musicals. They are joined by writer and cultural critic Owen Jones.
Wed, 28 Nov 12
Duration:
29 mins
Sociologist, Kate Woodthorpe explores how funeral arrangements illuminate the modern family relationships. Red Tape in India. Laurie Taylor talks to Professor Akhil Gupta about his research on why state bureaucracy hinders the fight against poverty in rural Uttar Pradesh. Anthropologist, Dr Alpa Shah, joins the discussion.
Wed, 21 Nov 12
Duration:
29 mins
Archaeology of homelessness. Rachael Kiddey discusses the significance of artefacts found in two homelessness sites in Bristol and York. What can these items, as well as oral histories from the homeless, reveal about what it means to have no shelter in the 21st century? 'The Last Refuge' Laurie Taylor considers Peter Townsend's landmark research, fifty years after its publication. He is joined by Julia Johnson, one of the authors of a new study which charts the changes and continuities in care for older people in England and Wales and by Robin Darton, an expert in social care.
Mon, 19 Nov 12
Duration:
29 mins
The British riots of 2011. Laurie Taylor talks to Daniel Briggs about his research into the nature and causes of last year's summer of discontent and damage. Also, the sociologists, Jill Ebrey and Guy Standing, ask whether or not the weekend as a time for rest, family life and pleasure, is under threat from contemporary patterns of work.
Wed, 7 Nov 12
Duration:
29 mins
Couchsurfing, Laurie Taylor talks to Paula Bialski about her research amongst coach surfers and online hitchhiking website users which documents new forms of human hospitality and connection. Also, trauma advocacy in Croatia; Vanessa Pupavac and Ben Shephard reflect on the growth of compensation schemes for victims of civil war
Wed, 31 Oct 12
Duration:
29 mins
The strip and lap dancing industry. Laurie Taylor talks to Kate Hardy about her research which suggests that the proliferation of these clubs has little to do with the demands of male customers. Also, the anthropologist, Daniel Miller asks what the ubiquity of blue jeans tells us about our individual and social lives. He's joined by the sociologist, Sophie Woodward.
Wed, 24 Oct 12
Duration:
28 mins
Trouble at work. Laurie Taylor talks to Ralph Fevre and Amanda Robinson about their study on ill treatment in the workplace. Are organisations creating a culture in which bullying, harassment and stress thrive? Also, Lara Week discusses her research on travellers versus tourists - do those seeking 'authentic culture' provide more to foreign countries than those who stick to the 'tourist trail'?
Wed, 17 Oct 12
Duration:
29 mins
'Against Security', are the stringent checks at airports really for our benefit American sociologist, Harvey Molotch, talks to Laurie Taylor about his new book and the complex systems which are designed to make us feel safe in public places. They're joined by the design critic, Stephen Bayley. Also, Alberto Toscano discusses Sociology's failure to address the financial crisis.
Wed, 10 Oct 12
Duration:
29 mins
The 'New' Arab Man. Laurie Taylor talks to Marcia Inhorn about her study which found that ordinary Arab men who confront childlessness and infertility are re-thinking conventional masculinity. Also, Matthew Bond discusses his research into elite club membership in the House of Lords. Karel Williams, Professor of Sociology, joins the discussion.
Wed, 3 Oct 12
Duration:
29 mins
‘Fear of the 'brown envelope', Laurie Taylor talks to Kayleigh Garthwaite about her study into the views and experiences of the long term sick and disabled in the context of on-going welfare reforms. Also Laurie discusses the legacy of 'New Society' magazine, 50 years after its launch, with former editor, Paul Barker, the writer, Lynsey Hanley and Professor of Cultural Studies, Fred Inglis.
Wed, 26 Sep 12
Duration:
29 mins
Race and 'belonging' in an English village, Katherine Tyler, explores the attitudes of white residents to their British Asian neighbours. Also, Christopher Grey talks to Laurie Taylor about his research into the myth and reality of Bletchley Park, its codes and culture. They're joined by Anthony King.
Wed, 19 Sep 12
Duration:
28 mins
The sociologist Malcolm Brynin charts the causes and consequences of pay gaps between different ethnic groups in Britain. Also, segregation, Laurie Taylor talks to Carl Nightingale about the ideology and practice of racial segregation in the city.
Wed, 12 Sep 12
Duration:
29 mins
'Odd Couples'- Laurie Taylor talks to Anna Muraco and Brian Heaphy about friendships between gay men and straight women; and between lesbians and straight men. Also, Maria Piacentini discusses her research on the importance of alcohol to student identity.
Wed, 5 Sep 12
Duration:
29 mins
Can the Italian family be saved, what caused the Italian crisis and what hopes there are for the future.? Laurie Taylor discusses his explorations of the family in Italy with Geoff Andrews, David Gilmour and Annalisa Piras.
Fri, 31 Aug 12
Duration:
29 mins
Why is the Italian birth rate plummeting? The first of three programmes on the crisis of the Italian family. Laurie travels to Milan to unpick the tangled interactions between the individual, the family, the church and the state. He talks to sociologists Pierpaolo Donati, Carmen Leccardi, Chiara Saraceno, Monsignor Carlos Simón Vázquez and Letizia Chiappini a student at the University of Milan-Bicocca.
Wed, 29 Aug 12
Duration:
29 mins
Why is the Italian family in danger of extinction? Laurie travels to the South of Italy in an attempt to explore legitimate and illegitimate family business. He speaks to Enrica Morlicchio, Gabriella Gribaudi, Luciano Brancaccio and Felia Allum.
Wed, 15 Aug 12
Duration:
29 mins
Right and wrong. Good and bad. Laurie Taylor talks to Beth Hardie, co-author of Breaking Rules: The Social and Situational Dynamics of Young People’s Urban Crime. Also, the Women of Wall Street, Laurie is joined by Melissa Fisher and Liz Bolshaw to discuss the working lives of the women at the heart of America's financial centre.
Fri, 10 Aug 12
Duration:
29 mins
What happens when middle class white people move into vibrant, ethnically diverse and challenging areas in inner city London? Emma Jackson talks to Laurie Taylor about the developing attitudes of the 'gentrifiers' in Peckham and in Brixton. Also, Irena Grugulis, author of Jobs for the Boys returns to the programme to discuss the concept of 'social capital'.
Wed, 1 Aug 12
Duration:
29 mins
'Jobs for the Boys?' Laurie Taylor talks to Professor Irena Grugulis about her contention that working class people don't get job opportunities in the UK TV and film industry because they don't have the right accents, clothes, backgrounds or friends. The media expert, Sir Peter Bazalgette and Professor of Sociology, Mike Savage, respond to this research and explore nepotism, networking and discrimination in the media world and beyond.
Wed, 25 Jul 12
Duration:
28 mins
'Sport Under Communism', Laurie Taylor asks Senior lecturer in Sport Politics, Jonathan Grix, about East Germany two decades of success in the Summer and Winter Olympics. Also, Gary Armstrong talks about a large scale study of security, policing and the impact of the 'Regeneration Olympics' on the lives of the residents of Newham.
Wed, 18 Jul 12
Duration:
29 mins
Skill, sweat, humour and the humanity of building workers in a post industrial age, Laurie Taylor talks to Darren Thiel about his study of London construction workers. Laurie also talks to Susan Coulson about her research on the lives of musicians in the North of England; they are joined by the music lecturer, Mike Jones.
Wed, 11 Jul 12
Duration:
29 mins
Immortality; Laurie Taylor explores the ways in which human beings have resisted the idea of mortality, with philosopher, John Gray and cultural historian Marina Warner. Also Barry Smith, Director of the institute of Philosophy in London explores contrasting analyses of 'evil' within modern thought.
Wed, 4 Jul 12
Duration:
29 mins
Cities have long been the centre of utopian dreams and protests. Laurie Taylor explores the links between urban protest and capitalist development with David Harvey Social Geographer and author of Rebel Cities. They are joined by the Sociologist Sophie Watson.
Wed, 27 Jun 12
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to leading French sociologist Michel Wieviorka who thinks 'evil' can and should be subjected to sociological scrutiny, they are joined by Peter Young, Head of Criminology at the University of Kent. Also, sociologist, Judith Green discusses her study into the morality of cycling.
Wed, 20 Jun 12
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Sociologist, Jeff Kidder about his research on why so many Americans are morally opposed to taxation. Peter Taylor-Gooby, Professor of Social Policy joins the discussion. Pulitzer Prize winning writer Katherine Boo talks about her study of the Annawadi settlement in Mumbai and shares the stories of the slum dwellers she met.
Wed, 13 Jun 12
Duration:
29 mins
Kinship is a key term in Anthropology. The French anthropologist, Maurice Godelier, tells Laurie Taylor about his ground-breaking study into the evolution of kinship; also joining the debate are celebrated British anthropologists, Henrietta Moore and Adam Kuper.
Wed, 6 Jun 12
Duration:
28 mins
From this year's British Sociological Association conference, Laurie Taylor talks to Maria Papapolydorou about her research on how class impacts on young people’s choice and experience of friendship. He also talks to Lisa Mckenzie about working class alienation on the St Anne's housing estate in Nottingham.
Wed, 30 May 12
Duration:
29 mins
What do British comics past and present tell us about our identities as a nation? Laurie Taylor talks to Professor James Chapman, author of a new book charting the cultural history of British comics, and to broadcaster Matthew Sweet. Professor Nicoli Nattrass discusses US and South African conspiracy theories about the causes of AIDS.
Wed, 23 May 12
Duration:
29 mins
What does the language of wine tell us about civilisation? Laurie Taylor talks to Professor Steven Shapin about the cultural and chemical evolution of wine tasting. Also, Professor Inderjeet Parmar explores the power of US philanthropy.
Wed, 16 May 12
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor puts love under the sociological microscope with Sociologist, Eva Illouz who contends that the nature of romantic suffering has changed radically in the modern era. They are joined by Stephen Frosh, Professor of Psychosocial studies.
Wed, 9 May 12
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor explores the changing fortunes of the Yorkshire Town of Hebden Bridge with writer Paul Barker and talks to the social historian, Emily Cockayne, about her research on relations between neighbours down the ages.
Wed, 2 May 12
Duration:
28 mins
How is the everyday affection for one's country changing in English life? Laurie Taylor talks to Michael Skey about Nationhood. Laurie also discusses the issues of Transsexuals and the body modifications they choose with Zowie Davy; they’re joined by Angela McRobbie.
Wed, 25 Apr 12
Duration:
29 mins
The story of the hunt for the lone gunman Raoul Moat had many of the ingredients of classic crime fiction; Laurie Taylor speaks to criminologist Michael Rowe. And Prabha Kotiswaran discusses her ethnographic study of the life of prostitutes in two of India's cities.
Wed, 18 Apr 12
Duration:
28 mins
Anthony King talks about his research into the vital part played by rhythm in rowing success. He explains the factors behind Cambridge crew attempt to establish a rowing rhythm. Also, what is the reality of life for a crack cocaine user in South London? Daniel Briggs discusses his new ethnography of a day to day observation of the people who use the drug, and their struggles to get the drug and also to get off it.
Wed, 11 Apr 12
Duration:
29 mins
Are we right to be worried by how much we throw away? Laurie Taylor talks to Martin O’Brien author of a new book ‘A Crisis of Waste?’ and Jeff Ferrell who wrote ‘Empire of Scrounge’. Also, how do civil partnerships compare to heterosexual marriages? Carol Smart talks about her research.
Wed, 4 Apr 12
Duration:
29 mins
When the factories close, what happens to the communities they leave behind? Laurie discusses the effects of industrial decline in Wales with Valerie Walkerdine who’s researched the impact of the closure of the steelworks in 'Steeltown’ and Jean Jenkins who’s investigated how the closure of the Burberry factory in Treorchy affected non-work life for the workers concerned.
Wed, 28 Mar 12
Duration:
29 mins
What is the difference between German and British haute cuisine, and what do they have in common? Laurie talks to economic sociologist Christel Lane about her comparative study; food critic William Sitwell joins the discussion. And, Philosopher Michael Rosen explains the practical applications of dignity, how it forms the basis of notions like human rights.
Wed, 21 Mar 12
Duration:
28 mins
What does the idea of home mean to us in Britain? Laurie Taylor is joined by Angela Brady, President of RIBA; housing economist Susan Smith; sociologist Esther Dermott and architectural writer Jonathan Glancey to discuss how ‘home’ has changed and how new needs are being met.
Wed, 14 Mar 12
Duration:
29 mins
Professionals and Cowboys? UK and US military security workers. Laurie Taylor hears about new research by Paul Higate, they are joined by sociologist Anthony King. Also, 'whisky tourism' Karl Spracklen talks about the quest for the 'real' and 'authentic' in tourism.
Wed, 7 Mar 12
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie explores the origins and meaning of boxing styles in the US and UK with Kasia Boddy; and discusses why some nations achieve prosperity but others fail with James Robinson and Paul Collier.
Wed, 29 Feb 12
Duration:
29 mins
How did social workers view the poor between the wars? Laurie hears from Mark Peel, the author of a new study of social work and poverty in the United States, Australia and Britain and historian Selina Todd. Laurie also discusses how evangelical Christians are putting the Bible in the background of life with Matthew Engelke.
Wed, 22 Feb 12
Duration:
29 mins
There are currently some two and a quarter million students studying in 130 universities across Britain. Laurie discusses what universities are for with intellectual historian Stefan Collini. Martin Parker talks about his work on outlaws crime and culture with Laurie and criminologist Dick Hobbs.
Wed, 15 Feb 12
Duration:
29 mins
Citizens without frontiers, Laurie talks to Engin Isin about the ways in which people embrace acts and causes which transcend national boundaries; He also discusses with Eric Anderson and Lynn Jamieson new research on male students' attitudes to sexual monogamy and explores why men cheat on their partners.
Wed, 8 Feb 12
Duration:
29 mins
We inhabit a precarious world of crisis and calamity which mocks the post war promise of upward mobility, social equality and job security. Cultural theorist Lauren Berlant calls it the 'cruel optimism' of contemporary life; she discusses her contention with Laurie and sociologist, Professor Bev Skeggs. Also, Karen Throsby talks of her ethnographic study of an obesity clinic and the hidden moral element to every aspect of the procedure.
Wed, 1 Feb 12
Duration:
29 mins
Has modern capitalism made us all obsessively competitive? Laurie is joined by Professor Richard Sennett and Philosopher John Gray to discuss how we can learn to cooperate for the benefit of all; James Nicholls talks about the British and booze.
Wed, 25 Jan 12
Duration:
29 mins
Do you doubt they put a man on the moon? Laurie explores conspiracy theories with David Aaronovitch and Jovan Byford. Kate Nash discusses her forthcoming paper on what makes us care for the suffering of strangers.
Wed, 18 Jan 12
Duration:
29 mins
Once a stag night was more than enough, now young men are taking 'stag tours'. Laurie explores new research on the old male ritual with Thomas Thurnell-Read and Owen Jones; and also how men experience the process of childbirth with Alan Dolan.
Wed, 11 Jan 12
Duration:
29 mins
Cosmetic surgery tourism Ruth Holliday and Jacqueline Sanchez-Taylor tell Laurie why more people are combining a holiday with a nip and tuck. Debt is even older than money, David Graeber tells Laurie about his anthropological study of 5,000 years of Debt.
Wed, 4 Jan 12
Duration:
29 mins
What happens when one uniform is imposed on a hospital? Stephen Timmons tells Laurie. Also, the increasingly military methods of urban policing: Stephen Graham and Melissa Butcher discuss.
Wed, 28 Dec 11
Duration:
29 mins
More people are sharing households than ever before. Laurie continues his exploration of private life as he and two sociologist Esther Dermott and Josh Richards visit the home of 6 young adults who live together.
Wed, 21 Dec 11
Duration:
29 mins
The Anti Psychiatry movement of the 1960s, pioneered by R.D. Laing, asserted that societal ills were at the root of mental illness. Insanity was therefore a sane response to a repressive and unjust world. Michael Staub, Professor of English and author of 'Madness is Civilisation', talks to Laurie Taylor about the once popular, now discredited, theories of anti psychiatry. Also, new research uncovers the hidden history of psychoanalysis. Professor of Jung History, Sonu Shamdasani, suggests that psychoanalysis achieved its cultural power only by re-scripting history in its own image. He's joined by Stephen Frosh, Professor of Psychology.
Wed, 14 Dec 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor explores the idea of the Tipping Point with Tim Clark and Pat Waugh from Durham University and Alex Bentley from Bristol University who are all involved in major Tipping Points project at Durham; they are joined by Dr Shahidha Bari from Queen Mary, London.
Wed, 7 Dec 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor examines research into the advice offered to parents with Judith Suissa and Frank Furedi, and looks at comparative research in America and Holland into teenage sex in the parental home with sociologist Amy Schalet from the University of Massachusetts.
Wed, 30 Nov 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor is joined by Dr Adam Swift to discuss new research about the popularly held notion that grammar schools aid social mobility. Laurie also explores opera fanatics at the Teatro Colon in Buenos Aires and compares them to fans in Cardiff, with Claudio Benzecry and Paul Atkinson.
Wed, 23 Nov 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Kip Jones about his research on the challenges faced by older gay men and lesbians who live in rural areas in England and Wales. Laurie also discusses protests over art and culture in America with US sociologist, Steven Tepper and Jo Glanville, the editor of Index on Censorship.
Wed, 16 Nov 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Dr Daniel Burdsey about race and the British seaside. And Laurie examines the limits of science and the machine age with writer Bryan Appleyard and philosopher John Gray and asks whether we are in danger of losing the essence of what it is to be human.
Wed, 9 Nov 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Dr Lee Miller about her paper 'Hazards of Neo-Liberalism: Delayed Electric Power Restoration after Hurricane Ike'. He also explores new research examining the motives of middle class parents who deliberately send their children to failing or under-performing schools with Professor Diane Reay and journalist Melissa Benn.
Wed, 2 Nov 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie also examines an apparent rise in heterosexual men kissing other men, with Professor Eric Anderson; Laurie also explores Professor Steven Pinker's notion of a decline in human violence with Professor Anthony O'Hear.
Wed, 26 Oct 11
Duration:
29 mins
Samaya Farooq tells Laurie on her new study of muslim sports women who combine faith and fitness. Also, Henrietta Moore with a positive take on globalisation.
Wed, 19 Oct 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor explores impartiality in TV political interviewing with Professor Ian Hutchby and Lis Howell. Laurie also talks to Professor Michael Keevak about his new book Becoming Yellow: A short history of racial thinking.
Wed, 12 Oct 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Dr Ian Goldin about his book on immigration which argues that successful societies need immigrants. Laurie also talks to Thierry Côté author of 'Popular Musicians and Their Songs as Threats to National Security; Prof John Street, author of Music and Politics joins in the discussion.
Wed, 5 Oct 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Marc DiPaolo and Matthew Sweet about war politics and comic strip superheroes. He also examines the importance of surnames especially for children, explored in a new article by Dr Hayley Davies from Kings College London.
Wed, 28 Sep 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor explores new research into income mobility and the dynamics of poverty with Stephen Jenkins and John Holmwood. Also, the ups and downs of New York tour guides with Jonathan Wynn.
Wed, 21 Sep 11
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor examines the history and motivation of suicidal people with sociologists Ben Fincham from the University of Sussex and Dr Mike Shiner from the London School of Economics.Laurie also talks to Professor Carol Smart From Manchester University about family secrets and memories.
Wed, 14 Sep 11
Duration:
29 mins
Does being beautiful help your career? Laurie hears about two new studies from Daniel Hamermesh and Catherine Hakim. Also Louise Westmarland on tales from criminologists.
Wed, 7 Sep 11
Duration:
28 mins
In the third of Laurie's sociological inspections of listeners' homes he visits the house of a nuclear family in Preston. Sociologists Jacqui Gabb and Peter Bramham accompany him.
Wed, 31 Aug 11
Duration:
28 mins
In the second of Laurie's sociological inspections of listeners' homes he visits the house of someone living alone in the countryside of Argyll and Bute. Sociologists Roona Simpson and Bren Neale accompany him.
Wed, 24 Aug 11
Duration:
28 mins
How do modern listeners live? In a sepcial edition Laurie and two experts conduct a sociological inspection of a multi generational family home.
Thu, 18 Aug 11
Duration:
28 mins
Are parents to blame for children being involved in gangsd? Laurei hears new research from Judith Aldridge and Jon Shute. Also, Gordon Matthews' study of Chungking Mansions in Hong Kong.
Wed, 10 Aug 11
Duration:
29 mins
How do young people use mobile phones in their intimate relationships? Emma Bond tells Lurie about her new research. Also, David Byrne and Teofilio Ruiz on Teo's new book The Terror Of History.
Wed, 3 Aug 11
Duration:
28 mins
Roger Luckhurst and Marina Warner discuss the myth of the mummy's curse and Audrey Linkman considers the relationship between photography and death
Wed, 27 Jul 11
Duration:
28 mins
Is there a better way to judge the development of a country than to measure its GDP? The philosopher Martha Nussbaum tells Laurie about her 'human capabilities' approach.
Wed, 20 Jul 11
Duration:
29 mins
Why do we feel it so keenly when our privacy gets invaded? Christena Nippert-Eng talks about her new study of secrets and their betrayal. Also, Mirca Madianou on migrant Fillipina workers parenting their children by mobile phone.
Wed, 13 Jul 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie explores the riots of Liverpool 30 years on with Richard Philips and Diane Frost. He talks abotu political influence on children with Dorothy Moss.
Wed, 6 Jul 11
Duration:
29 mins
Comedy is often seen as a social leveller. But new research by Sam Friedman suggests comedic taste is linked to cultural snobbery. Also, Melissa Gregg's new book explores the the blurring of boundaries between work and home.
Wed, 29 Jun 11
Duration:
29 mins
What happens to Goths when they get older? Paul Hodkinson tells lauire. Also, is the working class being demonised? Owen Jones and Imogen Tyler join Laurie to discuss.
Wed, 22 Jun 11
Duration:
28 mins
One on 3 of us claims to be suffering from lack of sleep - what social pressures are encroaching on our time in bed? Laurie speaks to Simon Williams. Also, how the media and judiciary react to women who kill: Louise Westmarland and Lizzie Seal.
Wed, 15 Jun 11
Duration:
29 mins
Should Sociology be founded on the study of Utopias? Ruth Levitas tells laurie that H.G.Wells thought so - and he was right. Also, Steven Connor and Michael Bywater on how the thigns in your pockets have magical meanings.
Wed, 8 Jun 11
Duration:
28 mins
Dirt, filth and why we like to be clean: A special edition recorded with an audience at the Wellcome Collection. Laurie talks to Amanda Vickery, Martin Rowson and Adam Kuper.
Wed, 1 Jun 11
Duration:
29 mins
What impact did Hurricane Katrina have on family break up in New Orleans? Laurie speaks to Michael Rendall. Also how have the former communist countries of Eastern Europe deal with the memories of their history? James Mark and Jovan Byford discuss.
Wed, 25 May 11
Duration:
29 mins
Is Playboy really an ally to the feminist cause? Carrie Pitzulo and Angela McRobbie join Laurie to discuss. Also, are celebrities putting young people off politics? A new report from Sanna Inthorn.
Wed, 18 May 11
Duration:
29 mins
What remains for ever unsaid at the graveside? Kate Woddthorpe discusses her latest research. Also Sophie Watson and Matthew Gandy join Laurie to discuss the future of cities.
Wed, 11 May 11
Duration:
29 mins
Britian and Russia lock up more young people than any other European country. Mary McAuley tells Laurie of her comparative study of their young offender institutions. Also, the paranormal and popular culture - Annette Hill and Matthew Sweet join Laurie to discuss.
Wed, 4 May 11
Duration:
29 mins
How do the poor talk about poverty? Laurie talks to Tracy Shildrick about her study of he underprivileged in Teesside. Also the radical nature of gardening with George McKay and Tim Jordan
Wed, 27 Apr 11
Duration:
29 mins
Does making things really make us happy? How does craft contribute to bringing people together? David Gauntlett and Richard Sennett join Laurie to discuss
Wed, 20 Apr 11
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie speaks to Valerie Walkerdine about the impact of redundancy on a former steel town and hears from Vicki Harman about her study of ballroom dancing as he visits the British Sociological Association's 60th Conference.
Wed, 13 Apr 11
Duration:
29 mins
Mary Gethins tells Laurie about her in-depth study of Catholic police working in Northern Ireland. He discusses Facebook in Trinidad with Daniel Miller and David Wall.
Wed, 6 Apr 11
Duration:
29 mins
Street Politics: protests, policing, revolution and just getting about - Leif Jerram and John Clarke discuss how the geography of cities have contributed to the development of society. Laurie also talks to Jeffrey Alenxander about 'perfoming' the revolution in Tahrir Square.
Wed, 30 Mar 11
Duration:
29 mins
Does organised crime really spread into new territories? Federico Varese tells Laurie about the capacities and limitation of the Mafia. Also live music has overtaken recorded in terms of revenue - Simon Frith and Martin Cloonan tell Laurie why.
Wed, 23 Mar 11
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor discusses the influence of the 19th Century Temperance Movement and examines the notion of power and prosperity shifting to the frozen North.
Wed, 16 Mar 11
Duration:
29 mins
In a special edition, Laurie speaks to the cultural theorist Stuart Hall about his ideas on politics, national identity and multiculturalism.
Wed, 9 Mar 11
Duration:
29 mins
Call centre workers in India are trained to emulate their callers. Laurie hears from Shehzad Nadeem about this leads to a parallel hybrid culture of westernised names and habits in India. Also, Marek Kohn discusses listeners reactions to the idea that the quest for happiness makes us unhappy.
Wed, 2 Mar 11
Duration:
29 mins
What is the legacy of a poor person? A new study by Patricia Drentea finds that it is something she calls 'ethical capital. Also, Laurie hears that we shouldn't worry about not being happy. Pascal Bruckner says the emphasis on banishing suffering only makes us miserable.
Wed, 23 Feb 11
Duration:
29 mins
What is the work experience of the illegal immigrants taking part in the British economy? Laurie hears about a new report from David Whyte. Also, is the American Death Penalty an anomaly in an age of abolition? David Garland and Ken MacDonald join Laurie to discuss.
Wed, 16 Feb 11
Duration:
29 mins
How do Islamic societies respond to the perceived threat of capitalis? Charles Tripp tells Laurie. Also, Sex Before the Sexual Revolution, Laurie hears of a new study of England between the sheets between the wars.
Wed, 9 Feb 11
Duration:
29 mins
How does class impact men's health? Alan Dolan tells Laurie about his new study. Also the phenomenon of plastic surgery in Brazil, where beauty is a right and the poor can get 'bum lifts' and 'nose jobs' for free. Alex Edmonds talks about his book Pretty Modern.
Wed, 2 Feb 11
Duration:
29 mins
How has the place of the bicycle changed in British Culture? Iain Sinclair tells Laurie. Also a new study on Second Homes by Chris Paris, discussed with Susan Smith.
Wed, 26 Jan 11
Duration:
29 mins
How to get ahead in Politcs - Biol Jones talks to Laurie about shinning up the greasy pole. Also, do freedom and equality sometimes conflict? A.C.Grayling and Ronald Dworkin (author of Justice For Hedgehogs) tell Laurie any supposed conflict is just a misunderstanding.
Wed, 19 Jan 11
Duration:
28 mins
Why do people give more money to natural disasters than they do to those they perceive as man-made? A new report by Hanna Zagefka. Also, brutal punishment attacks in West Belfast - why do they have no impact in stopping youth deviance? Laurie and Dick Hobbs talk to Hannah Hamill about her new study.
Wed, 12 Jan 11
Duration:
28 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to David Held - Graham Wallace Professor of Political Science at the London School of Economics about his philosophical and practical account of contemporary global politics from a cosmopolitan perspective. Laurie also talks to Steven Shapin - Franklin L. Ford Professor of the History of Science at Harvard University about diatetics - a study of the relationship between our bodies, our selves, our place in the world and our knowledge of those things.
Wed, 5 Jan 11
Duration:
29 mins
New research shows secondary school boys to be more relaxed about their gender identity than was expected, Mark McCormack discusses with Laurie. Also it Dr Who a leftish, anti-American, radical polemic? Marc DiPaolo and Matthew Sweet debate.
Wed, 29 Dec 10
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor discusses utopia with Professor Russell Jacoby, Professor Barbara Graziosi, Professor Ash Amin and The Bishop of Whitby The Right Reverend Martin Warner.
Wed, 22 Dec 10
Duration:
28 mins
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, children gathered beneath a sparking tree, a table groaning with turkey.....the cliches of the season are as alive and well as they were in Dickens time. But does everybody have equal access to the bounty of Christmas and the good will of others? The geographer, Steve Millington, finds that the distaste some middle class people feel for 'excessive' displays of xmas lights in working class areas reveals a narrative of class hostility which echoes Victorian attitudes to the 'undeserving' poor. He joins Laurie Taylor, the sociologist Bev Skeggs and the historian Julie Marie Strange to explore Christmas, compassion and class, then and now.
Wed, 15 Dec 10
Duration:
29 mins
Why did people say the First World War would be over by Christmas, and did they believe it? Laurie talks to Stuart Hallifax. Also Race and Sport: The creation of the stereotype of the 'black athlete', Ben Carrington and Bret St Louis discuss its impact.
Wed, 8 Dec 10
Duration:
28 mins
How did Cuba manage to become a world leader in bioscience despite and economic blockade and a developing world economy? Laurie talks to Simon Reid-Henry. Also what does the term 'moral panic' mean and is it overused. Jewel Thomas and Chas Critcher discuss.
Wed, 1 Dec 10
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor discusses the relationship between politics and business and looks at the influence territory has on gangs and gang culture.
Wed, 24 Nov 10
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor explores the notion of a 'civic core'- people who volunteer in their community and what they do. He also examines new research on the public convenience and finds it to be anything but convenient.
Wed, 17 Nov 10
Duration:
28 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Professor Philip Smith about his new research looking at public incivility and examines the impact of the AK-47 (the Kalashnikov rifle) with former US Marine and writer C.J Chivers and military historian Richard Holmes
Wed, 10 Nov 10
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylor talks to Dan Hind about his new book examining how best to promote the idea of citizen engagement. They're joined by Jesse Norman, Conservative MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire. Laurie also discusses the UK and US trade publishing industry with Cambridge sociology academic Professor John B. Thompson.
Wed, 3 Nov 10
Duration:
29 mins
Laurie Taylors talks to Dr Sharon Shalev about her new research examining the rise of the use of solitary confinement in American prisons. They are joined by Professor Andrew Coyle, a prison studies expert from Kings College London. Laurie also discusses the hegemony of 'the West' with Professor Ian Morris whose new book 'Why The West Rules- For Now' examines East/West power play through history and predicts a rollcoaster future.
Wed, 27 Oct 10
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor talks to Pat Thane, Research Professor in Contemporary History at King's College London, about her new research looking at the notion of the ideal family. He also talks to Professor Ian Angell about his new book which attacks the certainty that some scientists have about their work and criticises the application of scientific 'truth' to areas such as economics, computer profiling and the social sciences.
Wed, 20 Oct 10
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor examines new research which looks at homophobia and football. He also explores the growth of global higher education, looking at academic migration around the World.
Wed, 13 Oct 10
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor examines migration and happiness centred on the relationship between income and wellbeing. He also looks at being paid to be happy- with a focus on hairdressing.
Wed, 6 Oct 10
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor examines the sociological background to an experimental drugs trial that went wrong and talks to an American academic about the stigma attached to people accused of communist association or activity during the the McCarthy era.
Wed, 29 Sep 10
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor explores the history and culture of Liverpool Football Club and examines the experiences of Slovakian au pairs working in England.
Wed, 22 Sep 10
Duration:
29 mins
Professor Laurie Taylor explores the future of capitalism with economic thinkers Anatole Kaletsky and Ha-Joon Chang. And he talks to Pulitzer prize winning writer Mariylnne Robinson about the tension between religion and science.
Wed, 15 Sep 10
Duration:
29 mins
85% of secondarty schools now have CCTV, Emmeline Taylor has asked them how they feel about that. Also Laurie talks to John L Locke and John Mullan about the time-honoured practice of eavesdropping.
Wed, 8 Sep 10
Duration:
29 mins
Hate Crime, filming in prisons, living out of skips...Laurie explores some of the diverse strands of crime research at the British Society of Criminology Conference at Leicester University.
Wed, 1 Sep 10
Duration:
28 mins
Laurie Taylor discusses the decline in French culture with the writer Donald Morrison and former French Minister for European Affairs Noelle Lenoir.
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