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29/11/2025 GMT

Dutch historian Rutger Bregman delivers his first ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Reith Lecture, "Moral Revolution"

Rutger Bregman's 2025 Reith Lectures, called "Moral Revolution", explore the moral decay and un-seriousness of today's elites, drawing historical parallels to past eras of corruption that preceded transformative movements especially the 19th Century campaign to abolish slavery. In his series, he argues that small, committed groups can spark moral revolutions, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and long-term vision.

Bregman advocates for a new "realist utopia" in the face of rapid technological change, promoting ideas like Universal Basic Income, fairer taxation and responsible tech regulation. Finally, he zooms out to reflect on humanity’s strange historical trajectory, warning of the existential risks posed by unchecked AI and urging privileged individuals to take on an active role in shaping a better future.

The Reith Lectures are presented by Anita Anand who chairs a Q & A. The programme was recorded in front of an audience in London.

Release date:

50 minutes

On radio

Sat 29 Nov 2025 19:06GMT

Broadcasts

  • Sat 29 Nov 2025 19:06GMT
  • Sun 30 Nov 2025 09:06GMT
  • Sun 30 Nov 2025 12:06GMT

The Reith Lectures on Radio 4

Archive recordings from the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½'s flagship annual lecture series going back to 1948