The Fall of Civilisations

07/20/24 • 33 min

In this wide ranging conversation with historian and podcaster Paul Cooper, we explore the themes in his new book The Fall of Civilisations. Paul has examined numerous ancient and medieval civilisations from the Assyrians to the peoples of Easter Island to understand the factors and tipping points that lead to the end of civilisations. We explore how empires divide, how civil conflicts begin, the role of food insecurity and other stress factors and how likely our civilisation will reach its own existential crisis.

Note: There were a couple of audio issues in this podcast, but stick with it, it's well worth it.

You can hear Paul's podcast here, and Paul's book Fall of Civilisations is available here

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Note: There were a couple of audio issues in this podcast, but stick with it, it's well worth it.

You can hear Paul's podcast here, and Paul's book Fall of Civilisations is available here

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

Westlessness: The changing power of the west in the 21st Century

The western world fought for its survival in the 20th Century and won the three great historical challenges it faced, the first and second world wars and the long ideological struggle of the Cold War. Now in the 21st Century, during a time of rapid global transitions of power the future of the western power is less certain in an increasingly multipolar world. In this episode of the Explaining History Podcast, I speak with Dr Samir Puri, author of a new book Westlessness, which explores the past and the future of the west and its competitors.

Note: There were a couple of audio issues in this podcast, but stick with it, it's an absorbing conversation.

You can pre-order the book here

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next Episode

Men At War - Masculinity, Sexuality and Memory 1939-45

In this fascinating conversation with writer Luke Turner, we explore the emotional and intimate lives of men who fought in the Second World War. Luke's new book, Men at War 1939-45 is an exploration of the motivations, beliefs and personal and sexual histories of British soldiers in the Second World War. Join us to hear more about the book and the ideas behind it.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.