Podcasts about university belfast

George J. Mitchell, a former U.S. Senate majority leader and diplomat, had a documented personal association with Epstein that shows up in the released Epstein files. A handwritten note in Epstein's 2003 “birthday book” described Mitchell's friendship with Epstein as “a blessing,” and documents released in 2026 show continued contact between them, including emails and a scheduled appointment after Epstein's 2008 conviction. Epstein's former pilot also recalled Mitchell among people he flew on Epstein's private plane, though the pilot did not report witnessing any sexual misconduct during those flights. In the wake of the latest disclosures, institutions such as Queen's University Belfast and the US-Ireland Alliance have cut formal ties with Mitchell, removing his name from programs and positions because of his association with Epstein, even though no criminal charges have been filed.In court documents unsealed from a 2016 deposition, Virginia Roberts alleged that Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell directed her to provide “erotic massages” and sometimes sex to various powerful men, including Mitchell, when she was underage. Although Giuffre's deposition names Mitchell among several high-profile figures she said she was told to go to, Mitchell has firmly denied ever meeting, speaking to, or having contact with Giuffre and says he became aware of Epstein's criminal conduct only through media reports.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

How would we eat if animals had rights? A standard assumption is that our food systems would be plant-based. But maybe we should reject this assumption. Indeed, this book argues that a future non-vegan food system would be permissible on an animal rights view. It might even be desirable. In Food, Justice, and Animals: Feeding the World Respectfully (Oxford University Press, 2023), Josh Milburn questions if the vegan food system risks cutting off many people's pursuit of the 'good life', risks exacerbating food injustices, and risks negative outcomes for animals. If so, then maybe non-vegan food systems would be preferable to vegan food systems, if they could respect animal rights. Could they? The author provides a rigorous analysis of the ethics of farming invertebrates, producing plant-based meats, developing cultivated animal products, and co-working with animals on genuinely humane farms, arguing that these possibilities offer the chance for a food system that is non-vegan, but nonetheless respects animals' rights. He argues that there is a way for us to have our cake, and eat it too, because we can have our cow, and eat her too. Josh Milburn is a British philosopher and a Lecturer in Political Philosophy at Loughborough University. He has previously worked at the University of Sheffield, the University of York, and Queen's University (in Canada), before which he studied at Queen's University Belfast and Lancaster University. He is the author of Just Fodder: The Ethics of Feeding Animals (McGill-Queen's University Press, 2022), and the regular host of the animal studies podcast Knowing Animals. Kyle Johannsen is a philosophy instructor at Trent University and Wilfrid Laurier University. His most recent book is Wild Animal Ethics: The Moral and Political Problem of Wild Animal Suffering (Routledge, 2021). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

How would we eat if animals had rights? A standard assumption is that our food systems would be plant-based. But maybe we should reject this assumption. Indeed, this book argues that a future non-vegan food system would be permissible on an animal rights view. It might even be desirable. In Food, Justice, and Animals: Feeding the World Respectfully (Oxford University Press, 2023), Josh Milburn questions if the vegan food system risks cutting off many people's pursuit of the 'good life', risks exacerbating food injustices, and risks negative outcomes for animals. If so, then maybe non-vegan food systems would be preferable to vegan food systems, if they could respect animal rights. Could they? The author provides a rigorous analysis of the ethics of farming invertebrates, producing plant-based meats, developing cultivated animal products, and co-working with animals on genuinely humane farms, arguing that these possibilities offer the chance for a food system that is non-vegan, but nonetheless respects animals' rights. He argues that there is a way for us to have our cake, and eat it too, because we can have our cow, and eat her too. Josh Milburn is a British philosopher and a Lecturer in Political Philosophy at Loughborough University. He has previously worked at the University of Sheffield, the University of York, and Queen's University (in Canada), before which he studied at Queen's University Belfast and Lancaster University. He is the author of Just Fodder: The Ethics of Feeding Animals (McGill-Queen's University Press, 2022), and the regular host of the animal studies podcast Knowing Animals. Kyle Johannsen is a philosophy instructor at Trent University and Wilfrid Laurier University. His most recent book is Wild Animal Ethics: The Moral and Political Problem of Wild Animal Suffering (Routledge, 2021). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/environmental-studies

How would we eat if animals had rights? A standard assumption is that our food systems would be plant-based. But maybe we should reject this assumption. Indeed, this book argues that a future non-vegan food system would be permissible on an animal rights view. It might even be desirable. In Food, Justice, and Animals: Feeding the World Respectfully (Oxford University Press, 2023), Josh Milburn questions if the vegan food system risks cutting off many people's pursuit of the 'good life', risks exacerbating food injustices, and risks negative outcomes for animals. If so, then maybe non-vegan food systems would be preferable to vegan food systems, if they could respect animal rights. Could they? The author provides a rigorous analysis of the ethics of farming invertebrates, producing plant-based meats, developing cultivated animal products, and co-working with animals on genuinely humane farms, arguing that these possibilities offer the chance for a food system that is non-vegan, but nonetheless respects animals' rights. He argues that there is a way for us to have our cake, and eat it too, because we can have our cow, and eat her too. Josh Milburn is a British philosopher and a Lecturer in Political Philosophy at Loughborough University. He has previously worked at the University of Sheffield, the University of York, and Queen's University (in Canada), before which he studied at Queen's University Belfast and Lancaster University. He is the author of Just Fodder: The Ethics of Feeding Animals (McGill-Queen's University Press, 2022), and the regular host of the animal studies podcast Knowing Animals. Kyle Johannsen is a philosophy instructor at Trent University and Wilfrid Laurier University. His most recent book is Wild Animal Ethics: The Moral and Political Problem of Wild Animal Suffering (Routledge, 2021). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/food

How would we eat if animals had rights? A standard assumption is that our food systems would be plant-based. But maybe we should reject this assumption. Indeed, this book argues that a future non-vegan food system would be permissible on an animal rights view. It might even be desirable. In Food, Justice, and Animals: Feeding the World Respectfully (Oxford University Press, 2023), Josh Milburn questions if the vegan food system risks cutting off many people's pursuit of the 'good life', risks exacerbating food injustices, and risks negative outcomes for animals. If so, then maybe non-vegan food systems would be preferable to vegan food systems, if they could respect animal rights. Could they? The author provides a rigorous analysis of the ethics of farming invertebrates, producing plant-based meats, developing cultivated animal products, and co-working with animals on genuinely humane farms, arguing that these possibilities offer the chance for a food system that is non-vegan, but nonetheless respects animals' rights. He argues that there is a way for us to have our cake, and eat it too, because we can have our cow, and eat her too. Josh Milburn is a British philosopher and a Lecturer in Political Philosophy at Loughborough University. He has previously worked at the University of Sheffield, the University of York, and Queen's University (in Canada), before which he studied at Queen's University Belfast and Lancaster University. He is the author of Just Fodder: The Ethics of Feeding Animals (McGill-Queen's University Press, 2022), and the regular host of the animal studies podcast Knowing Animals. Kyle Johannsen is a philosophy instructor at Trent University and Wilfrid Laurier University. His most recent book is Wild Animal Ethics: The Moral and Political Problem of Wild Animal Suffering (Routledge, 2021). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/politics-and-polemics

How would we eat if animals had rights? A standard assumption is that our food systems would be plant-based. But maybe we should reject this assumption. Indeed, this book argues that a future non-vegan food system would be permissible on an animal rights view. It might even be desirable. In Food, Justice, and Animals: Feeding the World Respectfully (Oxford University Press, 2023), Josh Milburn questions if the vegan food system risks cutting off many people's pursuit of the 'good life', risks exacerbating food injustices, and risks negative outcomes for animals. If so, then maybe non-vegan food systems would be preferable to vegan food systems, if they could respect animal rights. Could they? The author provides a rigorous analysis of the ethics of farming invertebrates, producing plant-based meats, developing cultivated animal products, and co-working with animals on genuinely humane farms, arguing that these possibilities offer the chance for a food system that is non-vegan, but nonetheless respects animals' rights. He argues that there is a way for us to have our cake, and eat it too, because we can have our cow, and eat her too. Josh Milburn is a British philosopher and a Lecturer in Political Philosophy at Loughborough University. He has previously worked at the University of Sheffield, the University of York, and Queen's University (in Canada), before which he studied at Queen's University Belfast and Lancaster University. He is the author of Just Fodder: The Ethics of Feeding Animals (McGill-Queen's University Press, 2022), and the regular host of the animal studies podcast Knowing Animals. Kyle Johannsen is a philosophy instructor at Trent University and Wilfrid Laurier University. His most recent book is Wild Animal Ethics: The Moral and Political Problem of Wild Animal Suffering (Routledge, 2021).

George J. Mitchell, a former U.S. Senate majority leader and diplomat, had a documented personal association with Epstein that shows up in the released Epstein files. A handwritten note in Epstein's 2003 “birthday book” described Mitchell's friendship with Epstein as “a blessing,” and documents released in 2026 show continued contact between them, including emails and a scheduled appointment after Epstein's 2008 conviction. Epstein's former pilot also recalled Mitchell among people he flew on Epstein's private plane, though the pilot did not report witnessing any sexual misconduct during those flights. In the wake of the latest disclosures, institutions such as Queen's University Belfast and the US-Ireland Alliance have cut formal ties with Mitchell, removing his name from programs and positions because of his association with Epstein, even though no criminal charges have been filed.In court documents unsealed from a 2016 deposition, Virginia Roberts alleged that Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell directed her to provide “erotic massages” and sometimes sex to various powerful men, including Mitchell, when she was underage. Although Giuffre's deposition names Mitchell among several high-profile figures she said she was told to go to, Mitchell has firmly denied ever meeting, speaking to, or having contact with Giuffre and says he became aware of Epstein's criminal conduct only through media reports.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

In this episode, Mae Thompson speaks with Prof Luke Moffett, Dr Jessica Dorsey, and Chris Rogers about how artificial intelligence is already reshaping military decision making and what that means for civilian harm, accountability, and redress. The guests distinguish AI‑enabled decision support from lethal autonomy, unpack the cognitive risks of automation bias, anchoring, and de‑skilling, and consider how AI might responsibly support civilian‑harm tracking and investigations through data fusion and triage. They discuss the “triple black box” of accountability (model opacity, military secrecy, and diffused responsibility), the importance of lawful‑by‑design guardrails across the AI lifecycle, and why NGOs must pair new tools with people‑centred documentation. Looking ahead, they reflect on opportunities for a UK statutory redress scheme to deliver prompt acknowledgement, amends, and mitigation—keeping accountability pace with capability while centring affected communities. Prof Luke Moffett — Chair of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, Queen's University Belfast; author of Algorithms of War: The Human Cost of AI and Conflict (forthcoming, Bristol University Press). Dr Jessica Dorsey — Assistant Professor of International Law, Utrecht University; Director of the Realities of Algorithmic Warfare; expert member of the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain; Ambassador for the Lawful by Design initiative; Executive Board Member at Airwars. Chris Rogers — Senior Fellow at the Reiss (Reese) Center on Law and Security, New York University School of Law; former Branch Chief and Law & Policy Advisor at the U.S. Department of Defense's Civilian Protection Center of Excellence. This podcast is the sixth in a series of episodes on Civilian Harm in Conflict – hosted by Mae Thompson, advocacy officer at Ceasefire. The podcast is an output of the AHRC‑funded ‘Reparations during Armed Conflict' project with Queen's University Belfast, University College London and Ceasefire, led by Professor Luke Moffett.

In this first episode of season 4, Hamidreza Vasheghanifarahani speaks with Azadeh Sobout and Rindala about how transnational solidarity networks can strengthen efforts towards social change. While both Azadeh and Rindala focus their discussion on Syria and the 2011 Revolution, the conversation explores broader approaches and challenges to political organising and revolutionary politics that can be applied globally. Hamidreza Vasheghanifarahani an Iranian researcher, activist and an Atlantic Fellow for Social and Economic Equity. Currently, he works at the LSE International Inequalities Institute as a researcher. He has worked with and for civil society organisations and communities as a researcher, project manager and trainer, with a focus on civil society and community mobilisation, children's rights, and disability. Azadeh Sobout is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Queen's University Belfast. She is an Iranian activist, writer, and educator rooted in refugee justice, indigenous solidarity, Palestinian liberation, anti-racist, feminist, anti-imperialist, and anti-capitalist movements for over a decade. Rindala is a Syrian member of the People's Want transnational network and a co-founder of the cooperative space Darna in Montreuil, France. To learn more about the Atlantic Fellows for Social and Economic Equity: https://afsee.atlanticfellows.lse.ac.uk/ The Peoples Want: https://thepeopleswant.org/en/about_us Hamidreza Vasheghanifarahani: https://afsee.atlanticfellows.lse.ac.uk/fellows/2022/hamidreza-vasheghanifarahani

In this episode, Mae Thompson speaks with Dr Kaleigh Heard, Dr Haim Abraham, and Dr Conall Mallory about how the UK could strengthen its approach to civilian harm mitigation and redress at a moment of global uncertainty. Reflecting on the rollback of civilian protection measures in the US and emerging reforms in places like the Netherlands, the guests explore the potential for the UK to assume a leadership role. They discuss the limits of relying solely on litigation, the promise of tort law, the strategic and moral value of compensation and acknowledgement, and the need for a comprehensive, statutory, victim‑centred framework that aligns with international obligations while offering accessible, meaningful redress for affected communities. Despite the challenging geopolitical landscape, the conversation highlights genuine opportunities for constructive change in UK policy. Dr Kaleigh Heard — Lecturer, UCL Department of Political Science; Deputy Director of the MA Human Rights; Director of the APPG on Modern Conflict; advisor to the US DoD Center of Excellence on Civilian Protection. Dr Haim Abraham — Assistant Professor of Law, UCL; author of Tort Liability in Warfare: State Wrongs and Civilian Rights(OUP, 2024). Dr Conall Mallory — Senior Lecturer in Law, Queen's University Belfast; Fellow of the Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice. This podcast is the fifth in a series of episode on Civilian Harm in Conflict – hosted by Mae Thompson, advocacy officer at Ceasefire. The podcast is an output of the AHRC funded ‘Reparations during Armed Conflict‘ project with Queen's University Belfast, University College London and Ceasefire, led by Professor Luke Moffett.

Ist Jesus wirklich in das Totenreich (Hades) hinabgestiegen, wie es im Apostolischen Glaubensbekenntnis heißt? Wie ist die Aussage in das Apostolikum gekommen und welche Deutungen wurden im Laufe der Kirchengeschichte gegeben? Und wie können wir die schwierige Belegstelle 1.Petrus 3,18-20 am besten verstehen? Diesen und anderen Fragen geht Dr. Fabian Graßl im vorliegenden Beitrag nach. Dr. Fabian Graßl ist Theologe und Religionsphilosoph (https://fabiangrassl.org). Nach seiner Promotion an der Queen's University Belfast über den evangelischen Ethiker und Systematiker Helmut Thielicke erfolgte ein zweieinhalbjähriger Forschungsaufenthalt an der Internationalen Akademie für Philosophie im Fürstentum Liechtenstein. Seit 2020 forscht und lehrt er für die überkonfessionelle Bamler-Gehret Stiftung (https://www.bg-stiftung.org) mit Sitz im Bayerischen Wald.

From humble beginnings in his native Sri Lanka, to a more than 40 year academic career at Queen's University Belfast, Prof. AP (Amilra Prasanna) De Silva's research into molecular photosensors has led to a pioneering career in that's evolved from chemistry to medical diagnostics on one hand, to information processing on the other. Prof. De Silva challenged cultural expectations and overcame the lack of opportunities in chemistry that were available in Sri Lanka in the early 1970s. He first moved to Belfast to pursue research in photochemistry at Queen's University. Inspired by his grandmother's struggle with high blood pressure he engineered a unique sodium photosensor by marrying fluorescent molecules with chemical receptors. As a result of his international collaborations, a commercial, portable sensor was developed to detect salts and minerals in the blood. Its speed of analysis has since saved countless lives and improved healthcare around the world. AP talks to Jim Al-Khalili about his passion for engineering molecules and how his photochemical innovations have since crossed into computer science. They've been developed to perform molecular computations far inside the human body - where silicon microchips fear to tread. A new deeper understanding of life inside our tissues and cells beckons.

After concerns that honey from overseas is being watered down with cheap rice and corn syrups, Sheila Dillon investigates the scale of global honey fraud. It's a story of complex international supply chains with the world's food security at its heart. In 2023, the European Commission found that 46 per cent of the honey it sampled was suspected to be fraudulent. Just last year at the World Beekeeping Awards the prize for Best Honey had to be cancelled after fears that adulterated honey might be entered. The fake version can be very difficult to detect and beekeepers warn that it is forcing down the price of honey, potentially driving them out of business.So how serious an issue has international honey fraud become and how concerned should consumers in the UK be? Sheila visits Bermondsey Street bees in Essex in search of answers and speaks to the UK's two biggest honey producers - Rowse and Hilltop Honey. Food fraud expert Professor Chris Elliott from Queen's University Belfast analyses the situation and Robin Markwell reports from Copenhagen where the world's largest convention of beekeepers was recently held. Produced for BBC Audio in Bristol by Robin Markwell

In this episode of ‘My Identity' Professor Colin Graham (Maynooth) is in conversation with Queen's University Belfast students James Tourish and Rea Thien. Following the publication of For and Against a United Ireland by Fintan O'Toole and Sam McBride, ARINS held two sold out events in collaboration with the Lyric Theatre, Belfast. The first of these was an interactive debate for school pupils and university students. Colin met with James and Rea immediately after the event, recording this conversation on site at the Lyric to capture their reactions and discuss their thoughts about the event and the book. James is in his second year studying Politics and International Relations at QUB, he identifies as coming from an Irish Nationalist background having grown up in Derry. Rea recently graduated from Law and Politics at QUB and grew up in Southern California. The My Identity series is hosted by Professor Colin Graham, Maynooth. In this series, Colin is in conversation with a range of people whose ideas, work and life experiences shed light on the topic of identity on the Island of Ireland. My Identity is part of the ARINS project. Colin Graham is Professor English and formerly Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Maynooth University. His books include Northern Ireland: Thirty Years of Photography, Deconstructing Ireland and Ideologies of Epic. He was editor of The Irish Review from 2004 to 2020. During the Brexit negotiations he created the Twitter account @borderirish(opens in a new tab) and wrote the book I am the Border, so I am, published by HarperCollins. ARINS: Analysing and Researching Ireland North and South brings together experts to provide evidence-based research and analysis on the most significant questions of policy and public debate facing the island of Ireland, north and south. The project publishes, facilitates and disseminates research on the challenges and opportunities presented to the island in a post-Brexit context, with the intention of contributing to an informed public discourse. More information can be found at WWW.ARINSPROJECT.COM(opens in a new tab) ARINS is a joint project of The Royal Irish Academy, an all-island body, and the Keough-Naughton Institute for Irish Studies at Notre Dame's Keough School of Global Affairs. My Identity is hosted by Professor Colin Graham. Podcast management and production by Dr Susie Deedigan (University of Notre Dame). With thanks to Conor Patterson and Morgan Blain-Crehan, The Spinner's Mill, Belfast.

Babies as young as two-months-old can categorise objects in their brains, which is far younger than previously thought, according to new research by Trinity College Dublin, Queen's University Belfast and Stanford University. To discuss these findings was Professor Rhodri Cusack from Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience and co-author of the research.

Queen's University Belfast is to remove the name of former US Senator George Mitchell - one of the architects of the Good Friday Agreement - from a peace centre following the emergence of new information contained in the Jeffrey Epstein files.Anton discusses this and more with Vinny McAvinney, Broadcaster and Journalist and Gina London, Former CNN White House Correspondent and Sunday Independent Columnist.

Queen's University Belfast is to remove the name of former US Senator George Mitchell - one of the architects of the Good Friday Agreement - from a peace centre following the emergence of new information contained in the Jeffrey Epstein files.Anton discusses this and more with Vinny McAvinney, Broadcaster and Journalist and Gina London, Former CNN White House Correspondent and Sunday Independent Columnist.

Babies as young as two-months-old can categorise objects in their brains, which is far younger than previously thought, according to new research by Trinity College Dublin, Queen's University Belfast and Stanford University. To discuss these findings was Professor Rhodri Cusack from Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience and co-author of the research.

William Crawley and guests discuss "what does it mean to be in the Epstein files?"

In this episode, hosted by Mae Thompson from Ceasefire, panellists Dr Elizabeth Stubbins Bates, Mark Lattimer, Executive Director, Ceasefire and Dr Conall Mallory, Director, QUB Human Rights Centre,  discuss the UK's approach to addressing civilian harm caused by military operations. They explore the gaps in current redress mechanisms, the importance of tracking and investigating civilian harm, and the potential for a UK civilian harm redress scheme. The conversation covers historical issues, political disincentives, and best practices from international examples, emphasising the need for more comprehensive and proactive investigations. Insights from legal and military experts underline the critical importance of transparency, accountability, and the recognition of civilian suffering. This podcast is the fourth in a series of episode on Civilian Harm in Conflict – hosted by Mae Thompson, advocacy officer at Ceasefire. The podcast is an output of the AHRC funded ‘Reparations during Armed Conflict‘ project with Queen's University Belfast, University College London and Ceasefire, led by Professor Luke Moffett.

Warum musste ein Unschuldiger leiden? Weshalb vergibt Gott nicht einfach? Und warum bedurfte es eines Blutopfers? Die Einwände gegen die christliche Lehre vom Sühnetod Jesu am Kreuz sind zahlreich und von erheblichem Gewicht. Ausgehend vom jüngst erschienenen Buch „Sühne“ des Philosophen William Lane Craig greift Fabian Graßl diese schwierigen Fragen auf. Er bietet nicht nur fundierte Antworten auf zentrale Einwände gegen das Kreuzgeschehen, sondern zeigt zugleich, dass die Lehre von der stellvertretenden Strafsühne Jesu biblisch, historisch und philosophisch überzeugend begründet werden kann.

Ein Beitrag von glaubendenken "Die große Scheidung" ist ein Klassiker aus der Feder von C.S. Lewis. Darin stellt er sich einem der modernen Haupteinwände gegen den christlichen Glauben: Wie kann ein guter und liebender Gott Menschen in der Hölle leiden lassen? Dieser Vortrag bietet nicht nur eine Einführung in Lewis' Meisterwerk, sondern analysiert darüber hinaus Gründe, warum unser modernes Bewusstsein Probleme mit der Hölle hat. Außerdem wird am Ende auf die sechs häufigsten Einwände gegen das traditionell christliche Höllenverständnis eingegangen.

Join our hosts for Monday's show from 4-6pm where we will be discussing: ' Brexit' and 'Holistic Health' Brexit  Brexit was sold as a return to sovereignty, but years on the UK remains deeply tied to global economic and political forces. Has Brexit truly strengthened independence, or exposed how interconnected nations really are? Join us as we discuss Brexit and where we stand now on trade. Holistic Health Traditional and alternative medicines are widely used worldwide, but can they safely belong in mainstream healthcare? Join us as we discuss holistic health and the WHO's approach to traditional remedies, reflecting on how evidence, compassion and wellbeing can be balanced in modern healthcare.  Guests: Professor Colin Harvey, Professor of Human Rights Law at Queen's University Belfast and a leading voice on the human rights implications of Brexit Professor Alan Winters, Director of the UK Trade Policy Observatory at the University of Sussex. An expert in trade policy and economics Professor David Phinnemore, Professor of European Politics at Queen's University Belfast and an expert on EU negotiations and post-Brexit UK–EU relations Councillor Raja Aslam Khan is a local government representative with extensive experience in community leadership and public service. Producers: Bushra Tun Nisa Amir and  Maheda Nasir and Rabeeta Khan

Warum musste ein Unschuldiger leiden? Warum kann Gott nicht einfach so vergeben? Warum ein Blutopfer? Die Einwände gegen die christliche Lehre vom Sühnetod Jesu am Kreuz sind vielfältig und hart. Ausgehend vom neuen Buch "Sühne" des Philosophen William Lane Craig gibt Fabian Grassl in diesem Beitrag nicht nur Antworten auf schwierige Einwände gegen das Kreuz, sondern zeigt auch auf, dass die Lehre von der Strafstellvertretung Jesu biblisch, historisch und philosophisch wohl begründet werden kann. Dr. Fabian Graßl ist Theologe und Religionsphilosoph (https://fabiangrassl.org). Nach seiner Promotion an der Queen's University Belfast über den evangelischen Ethiker und Systematiker Helmut Thielicke erfolgte ein zweieinhalbjähriger Forschungsaufenthalt an der Internationalen Akademie für Philosophie im Fürstentum Liechtenstein. Seit 2020 forscht und lehrt er für die überkonfessionelle Bamler-Gehret Stiftung (https://www.bg-stiftung.org) mit Sitz im Bayerischen Wald.

**Ein Workshop von Dr. Fabian Graßl im Rahmen der True! Konferenz im November 2023 in Düsseldorf.** Für viele gilt Die Abschaffung des Menschen (1943) als das wichtigste Werk des Oxforder Literaturkritikers und christlichen Apologeten C. S. Lewis. In diesem Vortrag erschließt Dr. Fabian Graßl den geistesgeschichtlichen Hintergrund sowie die zentrale Argumentation dieses zeitlosen Klassikers. Gerade vor dem Hintergrund der aktuellen geistigen Verfassung vieler westlicher Demokratien gewinnt Lewis' Analyse eine erstaunliche Aktualität – und lässt ihn, achtzig Jahre später, einmal mehr als hellsichtigen Propheten unserer Zeit erscheinen.

In this episode of Part 3, Julia Viebach speaks with Gina Cabarcas Maciá, co-founder and director of the Political and Criminal Justice Lab in Bogota, about the vital role of records in Colombia's transitional justice process. With over 50 years of armed conflict and multiple transitional justice mechanisms operating since 2006, Colombia has developed a complex approach to documenting human rights violations—from judicial records and physical artifacts to testimonies from perpetrators, victims, and communities.The conversation explores how different types of records—including judicial files, testimonies, and digitalized archives—contribute to establishing truth, documenting gendered violence, and locating disappeared persons. Gina discusses the Colombian Truth Commission's groundbreaking decision to digitalize all testimonies and the challenges of coordinating between multiple mechanisms. She also highlights the ongoing challenge of securing collective accountability from state actors and the critical role civil society organizations play in preserving intelligence archives and documenting what has been silenced.About: Gina Cabarcas Maciá is a lawyer and historian who serves as co-founder and director of the Political and Criminal Justice Lab in Bogota. She coordinates support projects for Colombia's Special Jurisdiction for Peace and leads the systematization and analysis of information across multiple transitional justice initiatives. Her work bridges criminal investigation with historical documentation, combining expertise in human rights violations documentation with decolonial approaches to transitional justice.More information: Political and Criminal Justice Lab, Colombia's Truth Commission, Unit for the Search of Disappeared Persons, Special Jurisdiction for PeaceThe 3-part series "Can the record be trusted?" explores the prospects and challenges of human rights documentation and archives in the digital age, with speakers from an international expert workshop that took place at Queen's University Belfast in November 2024.

In this episode, Dr. Harrison Perkins speaks about his new book A Penitent People: The Doctrine of Repentance (Christian Focus). Perkins brings the warmth of pastoral ministry together with the clarity of confessional Reformed theology. He explains that repentance is often misunderstood—as if it were a dreary duty or an entrance requirement for grace. Instead, Scripture presents repentance as a saving grace, a divine gift through which Christ frees his people from sin's enslaving power and draws them into renewed joy. Repentance is not the price we pay to come to Christ; it is the fruit of having already been brought to Him by the Spirit through faith. Together they explore key biblical passages (Psalm 51, Psalm 38, 2 Corinthians 7, Luke 3), the Reformed confessions, unhealthy distortions of penance, and the pastoral challenge of helping people see repentance not as a terror but as a mercy. Repentance doesn't merely involve feeling guilty—it involves embracing Christ, turning from sin, and tasting the joy that accompanies renewal. They also discuss what a repentant church culture looks like: a community marked by humility, honesty, grace, and a shared approach to the Lord's Table as those who come on equal footing—sinners saved by a gracious Redeemer. Harrison Perkins (PhD, Queen's University Belfast; MDiv, Westminster Seminary California) is the pastor of Oakland Hills Community Church in Farmington Hills, Michigan. He is the author of Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction (Lexham Press 2024), Catholicity and the Covenant of Works (Oxford University Press, 2020), Righteous by Design: Covenantal Merit and Adam's Original Integrity (2024), Created for Communion with God: The Promise of Genesis 1–2 (Lexham Press, 2025), and a number of popular and academic articles. He regularly writes articles for Heidelblog and Modern Reformation. Watch on YouTube Chapters 0:00:07 Introduction 0:10:03 Background to the Book 0:16:22 Reframing Our Understanding of Repentance 0:20:39 The Joy of Repentance 0:24:35 The Reformed Confessions on Repentance 0:37:17 Psalms 38 and 143 0:43:26 Bearing Fruit in Keeping with Repentance 0:48:15 Distinguishing Fruits of Repentance from Acts of Penance 0:53:28 Illustrations of Repentance 1:00:41 Exodus 24, Covenant, and the Repentant Community 1:06:45 Hope for Readers of This Book 1:12:06 Conclusion Participants: Camden Bucey, Harrison Perkins This is Christ the Center episode 936 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc936)

In this opening episode of Part 3, Ulrike Lühe talks to Nataliia Gladkova about preserving digital evidence of human rights violations in Ukraine. Nataliia is the Ukrainian Archive Program Manager at Mnemonic, where she oversees the collection and verification of over 7.6 million open-source records—including satellite imagery and social media content, predominantly from Telegram—documenting the impact of Russia's invasion. The conversation explores how digital tools have transformed documentation work, from automated collection systems to AI-assisted analysis, while maintaining rigorous verification standards. A key theme is balancing accessibility with protection: ensuring the Ukrainian people's right to know while addressing security concerns, privacy protections, and evidentiary requirements for legal accountability. Nataliia also discusses cross-archival collaborations with the Syrian Archive to examine patterns of Russian military actions across conflicts. About: Nataliia Gladkova was the Ukraine Archive Program Manager at Mnemonic, overseeing the collection and preservation of over 7.6 million digital records documenting human rights violations in Ukraine. She coordinated confidential investigations for war crimes units and international justice actors, and participated in academic consortiums exploring AI applications in human rights documentation. More information: Mnemonic, Ukrainian Archive, Syrian Archive The 3-part series "Can the record be trusted?" explores the prospects and challenges of human rights documentation and archives in the digital age, with speakers from an international expert workshop that took place at Queen's University Belfast in November 2024.

Kurt James Werner, PhD, is a senior research scientist at Soundtoys and one of my favorite researchers in audio DSP (virtual analog modeling in particular).While you may not have read his papers, it's very likely that you used one of the plugins he worked on:NeoverbVinylRXGuitar Rig (Hammond vibrato/chorus)OzoneNeutronTrashIf you start peeking into the research of modeling analog audio effects in plugins, you stumble across his name right away.I consider him not only brilliant, but also insanely productive. Definitely a role model for me!In the research world, he's mostly known for his work on Wave Digital Filters (WDFs). It's a technique for creating a mathematical model of an analog circuit that once done is easy to implement (provided you use a WDF library).WDFs are great for modeling analog audio effects to put them inside plugins.But as a true researcher, Kurt is involved many other audio subfields that we discuss in the podcast!Did I mention that he's a graduate from Stanford's CCRMA?In this episode, you'll learn about Kurt's transition from academia to industry, his work on products at iZotope, Native Instruments, and Soundtoys, and the realities of being a research scientist in an audio plugin company.You'll also learn all about WDFs, which is a powerful tool to master.Trust me, you don't want to miss this one

Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, Law professor at the University of Minnesota and Queen's University Belfast, discusses Venezuela and the Cartel de los So-les which the US has branded a terrorist organisation.

Diarmuid O'Callaghan, President of Dundalk Institute of Technology, explains what a partnership with Queen's University Belfast will mean for the northeast.

In this episode of Law Pod, host Kenneth Elo interviews Professor Warren Barr, the new head of the School of Law at Queen's University Belfast. Professor Barr shares insights into his career journey, which spans nearly three decades and includes leadership roles at major UK law schools such as Liverpool, Cardiff, and Birmingham. He discusses his educational philosophy, the significance of soft skills in legal education, and his vision for the future of Queen's Law School. The conversation also explores transformative experiences in legal education, the impact of generative AI, and the importance of striking a balance between ambition and a healthy work-life balance. Professor Barr emphasises the value of co-curricular activities and encourages students and staff to engage and collaborate openly.

From humble beginnings in his native Sri Lanka, to a more than 40 year academic career at Queen's University Belfast, Prof. AP (Amilra Prasanna) De Silva's research into molecular photosensors has led to a pioneering career in that's evolved from chemistry to medical diagnostics on one hand, to information processing on the other.Prof. De Silva challenged cultural expectations and overcame the lack of opportunities in chemistry that were available in Sri Lanka in the early 1970s. He first moved to Belfast to pursue research in photochemistry at Queen's University. Inspired by his grandmother's struggle with high blood pressure he engineered a unique sodium photosensor by marrying fluorescent molecules with chemical receptors. As a result of his international collaborations, a commercial, portable sensor was developed to detect salts and minerals in the blood. Its speed of analysis has since saved countless lives and improved healthcare around the world. AP talks to Jim Al-Khalili about his passion for engineering molecules and how his photochemical innovations have since crossed into computer science. They've been developed to perform molecular computations far inside the human body - where silicon microchips fear to tread. A new deeper understanding of life inside our tissues and cells beckons.Presented by Jim Al-Khalili Produced by Adrian Washbourne Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem A BBC Studios Production

How do you write a reflective account for revalidation – and how often should you reflect as a busy nursing professional?This episode of the Nursing Standard podcast looks at the reflective elements of the NMC's revalidation requirements, which include writing five such accounts every three years.Our podcast guest, Queen's University Belfast senior lecturer Barry Quinn, also argues that reflection is something that should be done on an ongoing basis for its own sake, and when done well, can benefit a nurse's practice and mental well-being. In the episode, Dr Quinn explains how nurses can work structured reflection into their daily practice, and offers practical tips to help nurses complete their reflective accounts for NMC revalidation.Follow the Nursing Standard podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Acast or wherever you get your podcasts.Use RCNi Portfolio to store and track your reflective accounts and discussionsFor more episodes of the Nursing Standard podcast, visit rcni.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode features Dr. J. Stephen Yuille, Professor of Church History and Spiritual Formation at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Director of Puritan Publishing at Reformation Heritage Books. Yuille shares with the NBN about his new five-volume edition of The Works of John Cotton (Soli Deo Gloria, 2025). John Cotton (1585–1652) was among the most influential Puritan pastors of his age, shaping church life in both England and New England. Yuille explains how this new edition traces Cotton's thought across his major works—from his devotional classics, to his defense during the Antinomian Controversy, his exchanges on religious liberty, his writings on Congregational church government, and his apocalyptic sermons on Revelation and the Song of Solomon. Together, this 5 volume set Cotton's complete works, published together for the first time since their original printing 400 years ago, reveals his vision of grace, godliness, and community that helped define early American religion. Listen as Stephen Yuille reflects on John Cotton's enduring relevance for theology, history, and the study of faith in public life. Your host, Ryan Shelton (Ph.D. Queen's University Belfast 2024), is a historian of seventeenth-century Christian literature and theology. His research focuses the development of covenant theology in trans-Atlantic puritanism and the poetry of John Milton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

This episode features Dr. J. Stephen Yuille, Professor of Church History and Spiritual Formation at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Director of Puritan Publishing at Reformation Heritage Books. Yuille shares with the NBN about his new five-volume edition of The Works of John Cotton (Soli Deo Gloria, 2025). John Cotton (1585–1652) was among the most influential Puritan pastors of his age, shaping church life in both England and New England. Yuille explains how this new edition traces Cotton's thought across his major works—from his devotional classics, to his defense during the Antinomian Controversy, his exchanges on religious liberty, his writings on Congregational church government, and his apocalyptic sermons on Revelation and the Song of Solomon. Together, this 5 volume set Cotton's complete works, published together for the first time since their original printing 400 years ago, reveals his vision of grace, godliness, and community that helped define early American religion. Listen as Stephen Yuille reflects on John Cotton's enduring relevance for theology, history, and the study of faith in public life. Your host, Ryan Shelton (Ph.D. Queen's University Belfast 2024), is a historian of seventeenth-century Christian literature and theology. His research focuses the development of covenant theology in trans-Atlantic puritanism and the poetry of John Milton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

In this episode of LawPod, Dr Eithne Dowds, a senior lecturer in law at Queen's University Belfast, is joined by Professor Julia Quilter from the University of Wollongong, Australia. They discuss Professor Quilter's research on rape law reform and intoxication evidence in rape trials and compare the legal landscapes in Northern Ireland and Australia. The conversation touches on historical and contemporary evolution of the laws, the impact of intoxication evidence, and the challenges of addressing rape myths within the courtroom. Dr Dowds and Professor Quilter explore the complex dynamics of legal reforms aiming to protect victims and improve the courtroom experience for complainants while ensuring a fair trial for defendants. Points of comparison between Northern Ireland and Australia highlight the ongoing struggle to bridge the gap between progressive legal reforms and real-world courtroom practice. The episode brings to light how these issues play out across different legal systems.

Eirmersive, the leading voice in Ireland for the immersive technology sector, officially launched the PRISM Manufacturing Programme at an exclusive evening reception attended by programme partners, funders, and manufacturing leaders from across the island of Ireland. In early 2026, the programme will engage manufacturing SMEs across the island to explore deep tech applications, such as immersive, Digital Twin and AI technologies, towards improved efficiencies and optimisation of manufacturing processes. With strong backing from cross-border partners - including InterTradeIreland, Queen's University Belfast, Digital Catapult NI, Dundalk Institute of Technology Regional Development Centre and others - PRISM represents a transformative, collaborative pilot approach to advancing digital innovation and competitiveness across the island. The launch comes following an exceptional day that began with the PRISM Immersive Technology Summit, Ireland's premier all-island gathering exploring the convergence of Extended Reality (XR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Twin technologies. The summit welcomed over 200 innovators, business leaders, and researchers, offering a deep dive into how immersive technologies are transforming key sectors such as manufacturing, construction, health tech, and energy. Speaking at the launch, Camille Donegan, CEO of Eirmersive, said: "The energy and engagement we witnessed throughout today's summit carried seamlessly into this evening's launch. The PRISM Manufacturing Programme represents the practical next step - moving from discussion to demonstration, and from potential to performance. We're thrilled to see so many stakeholders coming together to drive real innovation across the island." Aidan Browne, Head of Innovation & Business Development at Dundalk Institute of Technology, added: "Today has shown the power of collaboration between academia, industry, and innovation partners. The PRISM Manufacturing Programme will help Irish SMEs embrace immersive technology not as a concept, but as a competitive advantage." Earlier in the day, summit attendees experienced powerful keynote presentations and live demonstrations from global leaders including Brian Cooney, CEO of KUKA Robotics Ireland, and Timmy Ghiuru, Innovation Leader at Volvo Cars. Discussions explored how digital twins, XR, and AI are revolutionising industrial workflows, reducing lead times, and creating safer, more efficient production environments. If you are a manufacturing SME, in NI or the South of Ireland, and you would be interested in registering for the PRISM Manufacturing Programme, visit www.eirmersive.com/prism or contact mark@eirmersive.com. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The 3-part series “Can the record be trusted?” explores the prospects and challenges of human rights documentation and archives in the digital age, with speakers from an international expert workshop that took place at Queen's University Belfast in November 2024. In this episode, Dagmar Hovestädt speaks with Dr. Trudy Huskamp Peterson, international consultant on archives and human rights. With decades of experience—from the U.S. National Archives to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees—Trudy has worked with archives of truth commissions, international tribunals, and other conflict archives worldwide, including in Guatemala, South Africa, Honduras, Rwanda, Cambodia and Sierra Leone. The conversation revolves around Trudy's groundbreaking work on preserving truth commission records and explores the unresolved challenge of international tribunal archives. With multiple tribunals closing, questions about who will make access decisions and ensure long-term preservation remain desperately unresolved. From her perspective, the current next generation of vast amounts of digital data in human rights violations - from electronic records to DNA samples in conflict contexts – is to be looked at through an archival lens: "Preservation is not a problem to be solved. It is a process to be managed." About: Dr. Trudy Huskamp Peterson is an international consultant specializing in archives and human rights. She began her work at the U.S. National Archives and after 20 years embarked on an international journey in support of human rights and records. She has consulted for truth commissions, international tribunals, and the UN on archival issues worldwide. She is a longtime member of the International Council on Archives and a co-founder of its Section on Archives and Human Rights More: Trudy Huskamp Peterson and International Council on Archives

Professor Aideen Ryan, Professor in Tumour Immunology at University of Galway's College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences. Photo: Andrew Downes Researchers at the University of Galway have revealed the results of a world-first study into how bowel cancer shuts down the immune system, and how this can be reversed to improve treatment. The findings have been published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer (JITC). Breakthrough for bowel cancer immunotherapy The research team showed how structural stromal cells switch off the immune system and how the body's own killer cells can be switched back on, opening up the opportunity for a completely new approach to optimising immunotherapy for patients. Colorectal cancer - commonly referred to as bowel cancer - is one of the world's most common cancers and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Diagnoses in people under 50 have been climbing in recent decades, with recent global analysis showing these early-onset cases have almost doubled since 1990. In Ireland, the disease affects more than 2,500 people a year. Professor Aideen Ryan, Professor in Tumour Immunology at University of Galway's College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, said: "While immunotherapy has revolutionised care in cancers such as melanoma and lung cancer, it has shown very limited benefit in bowel cancer, leaving patients with advanced disease with few treatment options and poor survival outcomes." The breakthrough research discovery is the first to demonstrate that tumour stromal cells - the structural cells that support cancer growth - are directly reprogramming the immune system. They do this by switching off, or hijacking, two of our body's most important tumour-fighting cells - the natural killers (NK) and macrophages - rendering them unable to attack the cancer. Professor Ryan said: "The interaction between the cancer, our body's healthy cells and our defence mechanism is a complex one, but our research shows that the cancer is essentially creating an immune brake - it is blocking the body's natural response and fight mechanism." What has been discovered in relation to how the cancer interacts with the human body? Tumour stromal cells are the structural cells which allow the cancer to grow. They are coated in sugars called sialoglycans. These interact with receptors on the body's immune cells called Siglecs. This interaction causes the body's natural defence response to be switched off and unresponsive when immunotherapy is used, and therefore unable to attack the cancer. The research identified a specific enzyme that drives this process of 'switching off', as it produces the Siglec-binding sugars on stromal cells. When the researchers blocked this pathway using drugs called sialidases, they could show that the body's most important tumour-fighting cells - the natural killers (NK) and macrophages - reactivated. It showed that the tumours shrank and the spread of cancer, known as metastasis, was prevented. The multidisciplinary research was conducted in collaboration with colorectal surgeons and pathologists at Galway University Hospital, led by Professor Aisling Hogan and Professor Sean Hynes; as well as experts in colorectal cancer - Dr Philip Dunne, Queen's University Belfast and experts in targeting sialoglycans at Palleon Pharmaceuticals, MA, USA, who have developed sialidase drugs that disrupt the sialoglycan-Siglec interaction. Professor Ryan added: "Our research is a clear breakthrough in our understanding of bowel cancer and how immunotherapy could be more successful. This world-first finding shows that some of the bowel cancer cells are not just passive bystanders, they are actively reprogramming the body's immune cells, preventing them from doing their job. We have uncovered an entirely new checkpoint and by focusing on it we can reactivate the immune system and improve our body's innate ability to fight the disease, and even target metastasis." Michael O'Dwyer, Pro...

SHOW NOTES: https://eggshelltherapy.com/podcast-blog/2025/10/27/deathanxiety/I sat down with philosopher Tom Cochrane to explore death anxiety, happiness, and how we cope when existential dread surfaces. We began with the classic philosophical arguments against fearing death. For Tom, ultimate comfort does not require a cosmic designer. It comes from recognizing the world's intrinsic value. He advocates for what he calls "aestheticism," seeing the universe as beautiful, sublime, dramatic, and worthwhile on its own terms. This perspective is available to both atheists and theists. On self-sufficiency, Tom's critique is pointed and unique. A fully self-contained life becomes emotionally flat, he likened it to being like a ‘stale lemonade'. Humans are "contingent to the bone" and flourish through embraced interdependence and risk, not through isolation.The key insight: we have control over our imagination. Even when it runs away from us, we can redirect it and build better habits of attention. About Tom Cochrane: Born in the UK, Tom completed his BA (hons) in philosophy at University College London, followed by a MA in music composition at Birmingham Conservatoire, and then a PhD in philosophy at the University of Nottingham. His PhD supervisor was Gregory Currie.  Following his PhD, Tom was a postdoctoral fellow at the Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva (2007-2010). He was then an international visiting fellow at the Sonic Arts Research Center, Queen's University Belfast (2010-2012), before moving to the University of Sheffield as a lecturer (2012-2017). After a brief stint at the University of York in 2017, he joined Flinders in February 2018.  Tom's main areas of expertise are the philosophy of mind (particularly emotions) and philosophy of art/aesthetics (particularly music). He also has interests in metaphysics and ethics.  He is the editor of The Emotional Power of Music (Oxford University Press, 2013) He is also the author of The Emotional Mind: A control theory of affective states (Cambridge University Press, 2018) and The Aesthetic Value of the World (Oxford University Press, 2021).Tom's latest book, The Aesthetic Value of the World: https://academic.oup.com/book/39016Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com About Imi Lo: www.imiloimilo.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/eggshelltherapy_imilo/ Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRzDisclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics. Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute mental health intervention. Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views and they reserve the right to change their opinions. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken at your own risk.

The Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC) has launched Northern Ireland's first Responsible AI Hub - a groundbreaking online resource designed to help businesses, policymakers and individuals understand, adopt and apply Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly. Developed by the AICC - a collaborative initiative led by Ulster University in partnership with Queen's University Belfast - and spearheaded by Tadhg Hickey, Head of AI and Digital Ethics Policy, the Hub is built on one simple principle: responsible AI is everyone's responsibility. Whether you're completely new to AI or already developing and deploying AI solutions, the Hub provides practical, accessible tools and guidance to help users 'be good with AI'. Supported by Invest Northern Ireland and the Department for the Economy, the Responsible AI Hub brings together clear guidance, ethical frameworks, and practical governance tools, all designed to make responsible AI accessible to everyone. By helping organisations integrate good governance from the outset, the Hub enables faster, safer innovation and reduces the risk of costly retrofits or regulatory breaches later on. From business leaders and policymakers to developers, researchers and the general public, the Hub offers step-by-step support to help people understand what responsible AI means and how to put it into practice. Among the resources are a Data Fact Sheet Developer, Harm Assessments, an Idea Testing Tool, an AI Policy Builder, and a suite of Project Governance Tools, all created by AICC's in-house team of applied researchers and data scientists. These tools are already being embedded across SME collaborations to promote responsible and transparent AI development in Northern Ireland. Tadhg Hickey, Head of AI and Digital Ethics Policy at AICC, said: "We built the Responsible AI Hub because AI shouldn't feel out of reach. Whether you're curious about what responsible AI means or designing complex AI solutions, this Hub gives you the confidence, language and tools to make good choices. Responsible AI isn't just for data scientists - it's for everyone. The more people who understand and apply these principles, the more we can build trust and unlock AI's potential for good." As AI continues to transform industries and daily life, the Responsible AI Hub aims to make ethics and accountability part of Northern Ireland's innovation DNA, ensuring technology serves people - not the other way around. David Crozier CBE, Director of the AICC, added: "The Responsible AI Hub is about building a culture where innovation and integrity go hand in hand. It empowers businesses, individuals, and communities to be confident and capable with AI, strengthening Northern Ireland's position as a global leader in trusted, human-centred innovation. This Hub will help local businesses adopt AI not only quickly, but responsibly and productively." Anne Beggs, Chief Commercial Officer at Invest Northern Ireland, said: "The development of AICC's Responsible AI Hub directly supports our business strategy, which prioritises accelerating innovation and fostering collaboration as part of our role to support City and Growth Deals project delivery. It will help Northern Ireland's businesses and innovators embrace AI in ways that are not only productive and competitive, but also safe, inclusive and ethical. By equipping organisations with the tools to innovate with integrity, we are laying the foundations for a world-class, responsible digital economy." Since its establishment, the AICC has rapidly become the driving force behind responsible AI adoption in Northern Ireland. In just over a year, it has assembled a team of 19 experts across Belfast and Derry~Londonderry, engaged more than 100 SMEs through its flagship Transformer Programme, supported 260 postgraduate scholars and delivered AI training to over 360 professionals. With its remit now extended to 2029, the AICC is set to expand its impact - accelerating innovation, strengt...

Gravitational waves show two black holes merge just how Hawking predicted. Plus, a space mission without a target. And a Space probe without a confirmed budget.In January 2025 the LIGO gravitational wave observatories witnessed two distant black holes spinning into each other. In the ten years of LIGO's operations, that's not a first. But the instruments have been improved to such an extent that this time some very important predictions of General Relativity and out understanding of black holes could be tested. As Birmingham University's Alberto Vecchio says, the elegant simplicity of the mathematics of black holes has passed a test, in particular Stephen Hawking's prediction that the surface area of merging black holes can only be increased.Space craft have met comets before. But because spaceflight takes so long to plan and fund, we've only sent them to comets with human-lifetime orbital periods so far, because we know when they're arriving. ESA wants to meet one we've never seen before, one that has never or seldom been in close to the sun, and never been barbecued and seared by the radiation. Colin Snodgrass of the University of Edinburgh explains the plan to launch and park a comet chaser in space to wait for one of these elusive extraterrestrial objects to come in from the cold.That, says Meg Schwamb of Queen's University Belfast, is going to be much easier in the next few years as the Vera Rubin Telescope begins its ten year survey cataloguing anything in the sky that changes. The type of sky survey it will provide will identify, it is hoped, many candidate first-time comets for the small fleet of spacecraft to intercept.Having a spacecraft ready in position rather than having to launch a new one anytime you want to do some science is a good place to be, one would think.NASA's Juno mission has been delivering science from Jupiter since its launch, and is still functioning and able to deliver more. Yet NASA funds are under considerable threat, and as Scott Bolton tells Roland, at the end of this month Juno could be left slowly spiralling into the gas giant, silently collecting data but with no budget to keep the science going.Presenter: Roland Pease Producer: Alex Mansfield Production Coordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth

We assess the life and legacy of US Supreme Court judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the fifth anniversary of her death.Featuring: Kelsi Brown Corkran, Supreme Court Director at the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and a Senior Lecturer at Georgetown Law; Prof Aoife O'Donoghue, Professor at the School of Law at Queen's University Belfast; and Prof David Kenny, Head of the School of Law, Trinity College Dublin.

This is the fifth and final episode in this series of conversations with RICHARD SCHOCH, author of the acclaimed book, HOW SONDHEIM CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE. This week Richard and I discuss two of Stephen Sondheim's most challenging musicals, ASSASSINS and PASSION, as well as his final show HERE WE ARE. If you missed the first four episodes in this series, you may want to catch up with them before listening to this one. Richard Schoch is a Professor of Drama at Queen's University Belfast in Northern Ireland. He is the author of eight books, both popular and academic, on topics ranging from musical theatre to Shakespeare to Queen Victoria. Become A PATRON of Broadway Nation! This episode is made possible in part through the generous support of our Patron Club Members. If you are a fan of Broadway Nation, I invite you to become a PATRON! For as little as $7.00 a month, you can receive exclusive access to never-before-heard, unedited versions of many of the discussions that I have with my guests — in fact, I often record nearly twice as much conversation as ends up in the edited versions. You will also have access to additional, in-depth conversations with my frequent co-host, Albert Evans, that have not been featured on the podcast. And all patrons receive special “on-air” shout-outs and acknowledgement of your vital support of this podcast. And if you are very enthusiastic about Broadway Nation, there are additional PATRON levels that come with even more benefits. If you would like to support the work of Broadway Nation and receive these exclusive member benefits, please click on this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://broadwaynationpodcast.supercast.tech/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thank you in advance for your support! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest again this week is RICHARD SCHOCH, author of the much-acclaimed recent book, HOW SONDHEIM CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE. This week, we explore two of Sondheim's most brilliant works, Sunday In the Park with George and Into the Woods. If you missed the first three episodes in this series, you may want to catch up with them before listening to this one. Richard Schoch is a Professor of Drama at Queen's University Belfast in Northern Ireland. He is the author of eight books, both popular and academic, on topics ranging from musical theatre to Shakespeare to Queen Victoria. Become A PATRON of Broadway Nation! This episode is made possible in part through the generous support of our Patron Club Members. If you are a fan of Broadway Nation, I invite you to become a PATRON! For as little as $7.00 a month, you can receive exclusive access to never-before-heard, unedited versions of many of the discussions that I have with my guests — in fact, I often record nearly twice as much conversation as ends up in the edited versions. You will also have access to additional, in-depth conversations with my frequent co-host, Albert Evans, that have not been featured on the podcast. And all patrons receive special “on-air” shout-outs and acknowledgement of your vital support of this podcast. And if you are very enthusiastic about Broadway Nation, there are additional PATRON levels that come with even more benefits. If you would like to support the work of Broadway Nation and receive these exclusive member benefits, please click on this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://broadwaynationpodcast.supercast.tech/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thank you in advance for your support! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In May of 2025, I was honoured to be asked by the British Academy to chair the final panel in their 'Folklore Reimagined' series, 'Lore of the Land'. This panel was titled 'Stories of wetlands, woods and weather'.How have landscapes been represented and perceived throughout time? What do the stories we tell about our environments reveal about ourselves? And how can our historical relationship with the land help us reconsider our connection to the natural world today? The panelists for this discussion were Professor Melanie Giles FBA, British archaeologist specialising in Iron Age Britain; Fiona Stafford FBA, Professor of English Language and Literature at the University of Oxford; and Marilina Cesario, Professor in the School of Arts, English and Languages at Queen's University Belfast.You can watch the original filmed panel on the British Academy's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ej60YO1_qrIThe Folklore Podcast has been committed to producing high quality free folklore content for almost a decade, bringing you access to the world's experts in the subject. To help us to keep doing what we do, please consider supporting us with a small monthly subscription on our Patreon page, where you can find more subscriber-only content. Please visit www.patreon.com/thefolklorepodcast and help to fund the podcast for the future.

In early 2025, headlines announced that the Trump administration would move to dramatically slash USAID—the United States' flagship development agency. For many, the move was surprising, even self-defeating: why would a president so focused on countering China weaken one of Washington's most effective tools of soft power? At the same time, China's development finance continues to expand, and geopolitical competition over infrastructure intensifies, raising alarm bells across Washington and beyond. To help us make sense of this moment—and the broader politics of foreign aid—we're joined by Jack Taggart, an expert on global governance and development, who discusses what these cuts mean for U.S. strategy, China's rise, and the contested terrain of development and aid in today's world. BIO: Jack Taggart is a Senior Lecturer in International Political Economy at Queen's University Belfast. His research spans international political economy, global governance, and global development, focusing on shifting dynamics in development cooperation, such as the rise of new state and private actors, aid financialization, and development finance transformations. He also examines global governance institutions and the growing role of “multistakeholderism” in areas ranging from economic policy to environmental treaties. Links: The Second Cold War and Demise of the Western Foreign Aid Regime by Jack Taggart, SCWO Dispatch How to DOGE USAID by Daniela Gabor in Phenomenal World Industrial Policy and Imperial Realignment by Ilias Alami, Tom Chodor, Jack Taggart in Phenomenal World Rethinking d/Development by Emma Mawdsley and Jack Taggart in Progress in Human Geography Fictions of Financialization by Nick Bernard Rendering development investible: the anti-politics machine and the financialisation of development by Jack Taggart and Marcus Power in Progress in Human Geography Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

My guest again this week is RICHARD SCHOCH, author of the much-acclaimed recent book, HOW SONDHEIM CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE. In the first two episodes of this series, Richard took us deep inside the inner workings and underlying meanings of Gypsy, Company, Follies, and A Little Night Music, and the fascinating characters who inhabit them. This week, we explore two of Sondheim's most challenging and brilliant works, Pacific Overtures and Sweeney Todd —The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. If you missed the first episode in this series, you may want to catch up with that before embarking on this one. Richard Schoch is a Professor of Drama at Queen's University Belfast in Northern Ireland. He is the author of eight books, both popular and academic, on topics ranging from musical theatre to Shakespeare to Queen Victoria. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a brief summer break, I am thrilled to be back with an all-new episode of Broadway Nation! My guest this week is RICHARD SCHOCH, author of the recent and much-acclaimed book, HOW SONDHEIM CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Just when you thought there might be nothing left to say about the musicals of Stephen Sondheim, Schoch's engaging book opens up a new treasure trove of fascinating analysis and insight. Richard Schoch, is a Professor of Drama at Queen's University Belfast in Northern Ireland, and is the author of eight books, both popular and academic, on topics ranging from musical theatre to Shakespeare to Queen Victoria. Become A PATRON of Broadway Nation! This episode is made possible in part through the generous support of our Patron Club Members. If you are a fan of Broadway Nation, I invite you to become a PATRON! For as little as $7.00 a month, you can receive exclusive access to never-before-heard, unedited versions of many of the discussions that I have with my guests — in fact, I often record nearly twice as much conversation as ends up in the edited versions. You will also have access to additional, in-depth conversations with my frequent co-host, Albert Evans, that have not been featured on the podcast. And all patrons receive special “on-air” shout-outs and acknowledgement of your vital support of this podcast. And If you are very enthusiastic about Broadway Nation there are additional PATRON levels that come with even more benefits. If you would like to support the work of Broadway Nation and receive these exclusive member benefits, please just click on this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://broadwaynationpodcast.supercast.tech/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thank you in advance for your support! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices