feeling good about: thinking allowed

It is all too easy to use a blog to criticise, moan and grumble, so here's introducing an occasional new series called 'feeling good about...' In which we lavish (almost) unconditional praise on our favourite things.

To start the ball rolling, one of my favourite new finds during the past year has been Thinking Allowed, BBC Radio 4's 'social science' programme.

It is actually far broader and more accessible than the academic description suggests, and covers everything from media analysis, to policy discussion, and happiness and well-being. The latest episode covered suicide bombing as a social phenomenon, and the changing nature of luxury brands.

Each subject handled with intelligence and charm by the extremely likeable presenter Laurie Taylor, who has a voice that is a cross between George from Rainbow and warm honey. Like the best Radio 4 programmes it is informative without ever talking down to you.

Given its scheduling (4pm Wednesdays) it is little known or talked about, but everyone who is fortunate enough to stumble across it seems to fall in love with it. Hopefully its availablity as a podcast (via itunes and the bbc website) will bring it to a wider audience.

 

kate s-b

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