Can we learn from history?

Perspective Media
January 19, 2025

THIS WEEK’S DEEP DIVE
Can we learn from history?

Journey through time with celebrated historians and writers as they unravel the complexities of our past. From the cyclical patterns of oppression to the unpredictability of historical events, these experts offer profound reflections on war, climate change and human nature. Discover how understanding yesterday's uncertainties can illuminate today’s challenges and shape our approach to the future.

Featuring contributions from Sarah Perry, Ben Wilson, Ian Hislop, Artemis Cooper, David Reynolds, Rachel Cockerell, Joanna Grochowicz, Andrea Wulf, Dan Richards and Peter Stothard.

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People

Q&A with Lucy Easthope

The disaster planning expert shares insights on facing global risks, the long-term impacts of catastrophes, and finding resilience in uncertain times. With a blend of professional expertise and personal warmth, Easthope offers a unique perspective on preparing for and recovering from life’s biggest challenges.

www.perspectivemedia.com/lucy-easthope

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It's only in the history books, long after the event, that times are given their gravitas and markers. When you’re inside them all you can do is keep going

Comment

Our low-down on current issues

Bonkers bunkers

Nathaniel Tapley satirises the growing trend for billionaire bunkers, exposing the absurdity of the ultra-rich’s attempts to insulate themselves from global catastrophe. With biting wit, Tapley explores how these subterranean sanctuaries reflect broader issues of wealth inequality and societal priorities.

www.perspectivemedia.com/bonkers-bunkers

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We’ve gone through hundreds of years of progress to reinvent feudalism

Culture

Ways of seeing

From Holbein's Tudor drawings to Raj-era photographs, Francesca Kay explores how visual art captures history and personal experience. She reflects on portraiture's power to reveal character and record significant moments across centuries.

www.perspectivemedia.com/ways-of-seeing

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“Not in our time will anyone write a life as Sickert paints it,” wrote Virginia Woolf. A sobering reflection for a writer

Dressing for utopia

Christobel Kent playfully explores what we can wear in a post-Tory Britain, drawing on literary utopias and dystopias for inspiration. From Thomas More’s durable uniforms to Brave New World’s colour-coded castes, she contemplates how clothing reflects societal values and political realities.

www.perspectivemedia.com/dressing-for-utopia

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The answer to all society’s problems might be to go bare

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