Media :
Availability:
Available to listen.
Last broadcast on Sun, 15 Aug 2010, 09:05 on BBC World Service.
Synopsis
The celebrated South African artist and animator William Kentridge describes how failure is an intrinsic part of what he strives for.
Dutch philosopher Alex Voorhoeve explains how human psychology may get in the way of moral clarity.
And the flaws of online communications – is social networking undermining our ability to make real friends? Or is that just a myth? –American Professor Nancy Baym explores the question of authenticity in communication.
Illustration by Graeme Davis.
William Kentridge
One of South Africa’s most notable artists, William Kentridge, discusses imperfection and uncertainty in art, and why one of the most important forces which have moulded him is failure.
Photograph copyright Merwelene Van Der Merwe
Alex Voorhoeve
Dutch ethicist and philosopher, Dr Alex Voorhoeve has been conducting philosophical research into the links between human psychology and moral judgements. He has concluded that in fact our moral intuitions are based on shaky ground and cannot be trusted and suggests we need a moral framework to guide us through our ethical choices.
Nancy Baym
American Professor Nancy Baym says that at times of rapid technological change, questions such as what counts as authentic human connection are called into question. She explains that in discussing how these new forms of digital communication media affect the relationships that we have with each other, we are actually having age old discussions about human connections.
SIXTY SECOND IDEA TO CHANGE THE WORLD
American communications Professor Nancy Baym thinks that everyone in the world should undergo mandatory training in how to be a better listener. True listening leads to making people feel good, better understanding of others, overcoming our stereotypes and assumptions, better ability to evaluate others and their ideas, better understanding of ourselves and better conflict management. The world would be quieter and more peaceful.
IN NEXT WEEK'S PROGRAMME
The history of obesity with polymath Sander Gilman; biologist and philosopher Massimo Pigliucci on how to tell science from bunk; and poet Gcina Mhlophe on the importance of story telling in South Africa.
Chapters
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Chapter 1
The value of uncertainty as a source of artistic inspiration.
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Chapter 2
Professor Nancy Baym thinks that everyone in the world should undergo mandatory training in how to be a better listener.
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Chapter 3
Finding a safe path through the quick sands of moral ambiguity.
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Chapter 4
The twists and turns of relationships online.
Broadcast
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Sun 15 Aug 201009:05
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