A contemporary historian with a unique blend of scholarship and enthusiasm for his subject, Peter Hennessy has long been a national treasure. After 40 years of close observation of British government and politics, as a journalist, as a presenter of BBC Radio 4's Analysis and as an academic, he explores several of the major political and constitutional themes which have long fascinated him.
Stephen Cave’s Immortality explores how the quest to live forever has driven the development of human civilisation, and how that quest is now coming to a climax through modern science. It argues that humans are hardwired to pursue eternal life – and that the way they have done so has stayed remarkably consistent through the ages. Here, Stephen is in discussion with philosophy writer Julian Baggini and author Havi Carel. The event is free but advance booking is required.
The will to live forever is central to the human story. Can it be fulfilled? And should we want it to be? Stephen Cave, author of Immortality, in discussion with John Gray, Emeritus Professor of European thought at LSE. Chaired by Dr Simon Glendinning. Suggested hashtag for this event for Twitter users: #lseimmortal Enrty is on a first come, first served basis.
After forty years of close observation of British government and politics, in his new book Distilling the Frenzy Peter Hennessy - “this humane and thoughtful historian" - synthesises several of the major themes that have long fascinated him, including Britain’s persistent impulse to punch well above its weight in the world and the value of history to ministers and officials in the rush to make policy. In this lecture, Hennessy’s unique background and position will cast a fascinating light on contemporary history.
How The Lights Get In 2012: Music and Philosophy at The Hay Festival Nelson Mandela: Icon of Icons Leading member of Tony Blair's cabinet and famed anti-apartheid campaigner, Peter Hain provides a radical new account of the life of Nelson Mandela and the qualities which make him one of the world’s most potent symbols of the resilience of the human spirit. What makes a man an icon? The story of Nelson Mandela's activism, imprisonment, release and rise is known around the world, but how does a hero become a historical phenomenon? Earlybird price: £4.00 Advance price: £6.00 Full-price: £8.00
Forty Years Is A Long Time In Politics: Peter Hain – anti-apartheid campaigner, MP for Neath, former Leader of the House and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Wales, and author of Outside In – and David Lipsey – Labour peer and author of David Lipsey: An Autobiography – shed new, controversial and wickedly funny light on the political process. Chaired by Simon Mundy.
The Hampstead and Highgate Literary festival is a three day celebration of writing for readers of all ages and interests. Peter Hain MP and Matthew Hancock MP will be speaking at the festival - stay tuned for more details.