Big Ideas

The main threat of antisemitism is its use as a conspiracy theory to undermine democracy, says Deborah Lipstadt.

She traces the origin of antisemitism and defines a template that’s been used by both the political right and left - even today.

Could it be that the adversarial criminal justice system is hindering efforts to combat domestic violence?

Surveys about people’s fears commonly feature public speaking at the very top of the list.

Many of you believe that public speaking is something you have a natural affinity to do – or not.

But it's a skill you can learn and practice like any other.

Even better: There are some basic tips – easily applied – that can make an average talk a memorable and impactful speech. You only have to know them.

Nobel laureate Paul Krugman explains some of the most vital economic policy issues of our time.

Private health insurance; accepting budget deficits – or not; putting tariffs on foreign trade. What makes economic sense and what’s fiscal myth?

And he assesses some economic policies put forward in this US presidential election. Economy might decide the winner of this election and the outcome will reverberate across the world.

Managing waste starts with avoiding waste by repairing products. But often manufacturers’ ‘Technological Protection Measures’ prevent repair.

How can we encourage repair rather than simply the throwing out broken objects and devices?

Popular protest movements have helped shift attitudes and shape Australia. Like the millions who marched to demand an end to Vietnam War. Today, Extinction Rebellion protesters are taking to the streets.  What are the ingredients of a successful protest?  Do rallies and radical activism, still get results?

Great inventors have a strong passion for their field, but don’t fall in love with their ideas. Most of them go straight into the bin.

Persistency is key, as is optimism that there is a solution to their specific problem out there.

And it’s far more about teamwork and interdisciplinary cooperation than genius.

On Big Ideas, four inventors share their secrets about the path to success.

What does it take to be a leader in an era of rapid change? Two business analysts have travelled the world to see what works and what doesn't. They say the top-down, macho model is so last century! Successful leaders now need a different set of skills from those who led big corporations in the past.

Shakespeare is one of Britain’s favourite sons but his popularity is global. While the Elizabethan English is a challenge for modern audiences his characters and plots are timeless.

Shakespeare is at the top of the western literary canon and despite attempts to knock him off his perch it looks like he’s in a pretty safe spot. Acclaimed Shakespearean actor and director John Bell talks about the power of Shakespeare and his life-long dedication to the Bard.