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Welcome to Beyond the Text! Join your host, Samuel Woodall, for an enriching exploration of the classics in part one of "All the Classics." In this episode, we delve into the timeless wisdom of Plato, dissecting 'Crito' and 'The Republic,' Book One. Embark on a journey through contractarianism, justice, and the pursuit of the "good life," unraveling the intricate relationship between ethics and governance. Witness how these ancient ideas continue to shape our modern understanding of society and morality. Don't miss this captivating episode as we navigate the annals of intellectual history.

Stay tuned for part two, where we delve into Confucius' Analects and the intellectual period known as the "Axial Age." Coming later this week, our exploration continues, offering insights into the rich tapestry of ideas that have shaped civilizations throughout history. Subscribe now for an immersive journey into the heart of classical wisdom with Beyond the Text and Samuel Woodall!

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Welcome to Beyond the Text Episode 2, where we dive deep into the fascinating realm of intellectual history! Join me as we unravel the distinct approaches of Quentin Skinner and Michel Foucault, two luminaries who have reshaped our understanding of the past.

Skinner's genealogical approach takes us on a journey through historical origins and the evolution of ideas, challenging conventional definitions such as the rigid concept of the 'state.' Witness the unveiling of "semantic drift" and an exploration of populist perspectives on the state, with a focus on the pivotal role of citizens.

In contrast, Foucault's genealogy delves into power dynamics embedded in history, dismantling the notion of an objective historical truth. Discover how these profound insights resonate with contemporary cultural debates, providing invaluable tools to navigate complex concepts like 'identity,' 'justice,' and 'freedom.'

Join me as we explore how Skinner and Foucault converge in highlighting the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of history. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that promises to broaden your perspective on the past and its relevance to our present cultural landscape. Subscribe now for a captivating journey into intellectual history!

The related blog article is available here: A Method in the Madness

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Welcome to Beyond the Text, where intellectual history comes alive! In our inaugural episode, we delve into the core principles of this captivating field. Join us as we pay homage to the insightful teachings of Professor Richard Whatmore and embark on a journey into the renowned 'Cambridge School' of intellectual history.

In this episode, we highlight the significance of understanding historical ideas within their specific contexts, steering clear of anachronistic interpretations, and challenging the traditional hierarchy of 'important' texts. Our exploration sets the foundation for upcoming episodes that promise to unravel the profound impact of postmodernism on intellectual history, probe the objectivity of historical narratives, and dissect the dual role of Marxism as both a methodology and ideology within the field.

Tune in and broaden your intellectual horizons with Beyond the Text – where the past meets the present in the most thought-provoking ways. Subscribe now for a journey through the rich tapestry of ideas that have shaped our world.

The related blog article is available here: Beginnings