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Last broadcast on Tue, 20 Jan 2009, 21:15 on BBC Radio 3.
Synopsis
Philip Dodd examines the life and work of German sociologist Max Weber, as revealed in a new biography by Joachim Radkua. The iconic early 20th-century sociologist is famous for identifying the now-universally accepted link between Protestantism and the rise of capitalism, and for promoting the notion of 'charisma' as an important political factor. As the book's English translation is published, Radkau talks to Philip about why Weber's life urgently required a new biographical treatment. His book brings out Weber's suffering, his fears and his desires, his methods of work as well as his religious experiences, all of which had a profound impact on his writings.
Frost/Nixon
Philip Dodd hears Simon Jenkins’s verdict on the new film Frost/Nixon.
The film, starring Michael Sheen and Frank Langella, dramatises the iconic interviews that produced a longed-for admission of guilt from the American president behind the Watergate scandal.
Max Weber
Philip will be assessing the enduring significance of the German philosopher Max Weber.
One of the architects of modern sociology, Weber developed the highly influential idea of the Protestant work ethic. His influence will be debated by Madeleine Bunting and Joachim Radkau.
Max Weber: A Biography by Joachim Radkau is published by Polity Press.
Generation Kill
MIchael Goldfarb reviews a new television drama about the war in Iraq, written by the much-admired creators of the American drama, The Wire.
Generation Kill starts on FX on 25 January.
Long term vs. short term planning in politics.
As environmental campaigners struggle to preserve the planet for future generations, and political pragmatists struggle to create jobs in the current recession, Night Waves will be asking which is more beneficial in life: to attend to short term priorities, or to plan for the long-term future?
Broadcast
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Tue 20 Jan 200921:15
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