The ability to swim, or not, has always been a social divider and often an indicator of cultural power. But there have been periods and places where those who considered themselves superior chose not to swim. And why it wasn't until the mid-20th century that body hair came to be viewed as unhealthy, even filthy.

Guests: 

Karen Eva Carr,  Associate Professor (Emerita) in History, Portland State University, Oregon and author of ‘Shifting currents: a world history of swimming’.  (Reaktion Books) 

Rebecca Herzig, Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies and Chair of the Program in Women and Gender Studies at Bates College, Maine.