Mikhail Gorbachev looks at the history of Communism and how it started in Russia and spread worldwide. Looks at its history in Russia, and Gorbachev's disillusionment with the system and desire to reform and improve it. He discusses the policies of "glasnost" and "perestoika" that he introduced, the fall of the Berlin wall, his own position and his hopes for the future.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu talks about the origins, precepts and history of Christianity and what his faith means to him.
Tony Benn looks at how the concept of democracy developed and spread across the world over the centuries from its beginnings in Ancient Greece. Particularly considers the impact of extending the vote to more people in 19th century Britain and the state of democracy in 20th century Britain.
Germaine Greer looks at the historical treatment of and attitudes towards women, some of the women who developed the idea of feminism and how it became a powerful movement, particularly in the twentieth century.
Danish author Bjorn Lomberg looks at the origins and history of environmentalism from the late eighteenth century to date. Looks at the increase in pollution of the planet in the twentieth century and the harmful effects and consequences on both nature and man. Considers nuclear issues, the rise of Green politics, and also suggestions which differ from most...
Joseph Stiglitz discusses the history of capitalism, from the ideas of Adam Smith in the eighteenth century to the current day. Considers the effects of industrialization, the Depression, nationalization and the welfare state, the Cold War, free-market theories and globalization.
Reverend Jesse Jackson looks at the history of black people and the struggle for equality from the days of slavery to date, his work with Dr Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement and his continued dream of an egalitarian society.
Former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto, examines the history of Islam, from its origins in the 7th Century to the present day. Considers the impact of the Crusades on a religion that preached tolerance and peace, and the rise of the Hashshashin Islamic group at the time, which justified murder and martyrdom agains the Crusaders. Also at how ever since there has been tension between traditional liberal Islam, and the more militant extreme forms.
Chair of the Sustainable Development Commission, Jonothan Porritt looks at the history of consumerism, and its destructive side which is now threatening the planet.
David Blunkett MP looks at the history of nationalism and British national identity, and at how traditional distrust of the concept may have impacted on racism and insecurity and that it could be utilized to be beneficial to society.
Terry Waite looks at the history of terrorism from the French Revolution to date and considers the effectiveness of violence and how negotiating with terrorists can sometimes have positive outcomes.