Episode 1

Media:

Synopsis

In the first of three programmes exploring the origins of British intellectual traditions and their subsequent influence here and abroad, historian and broadcaster Tristram Hunt examines the English philosopher John Locke's Letter Concerning Toleration and follows its influence across history and the world.

Written in 1689 at a time of Prostestant persecution, Locke's work called for a new understanding of the relationship between religion and the state. Tristram visits Holland - where Locke wrote the Letter in exile - to hear about religious tolerance there and how it compared with contemporary England. Many Huguenots had fled religious persecution in France and he also visits one of their churches in London - which now functions as a mosque - to see what effect Locke's thinking had on the English establishment and faith communities of the 17th century as well as assessing its relevance today in multi-faith Britain.

Broadcast

1. Sun 29 Jun 2008
   22:10
   BBC Radio 3