Ideas - The British Version

Episodes

EpisodeTitleFirst
Broadcast
RepeatedComments
012008062920090805 (R3)In a programme exploring the origins of British intellectual traditions and their subsequent influence in the UK 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.

Tristram Hunt examines the legacy of John Locke's writings on religious toleration.

022008070620090806 (R3)Tristram Hunt looks at the birth of a 'middle way' between the Left and raw capitalism.
03The Free Market2008071320090807 (R3)Tristram Hunt examines the legacy of the father of economics - Adam Smith.