Ideas

A witch, a demon and an exorcism? Welcome to life in 1660

A demonic possession, a do-it-yourself exorcism, and the execution of an accused witch — welcome to daily life in Quebec City, circa 1660. IDEAS digs into the story of Canada’s earliest reported ‘demon possession caused by witchcraft’ case. *This episode originally aired on June 9, 2023.We appreciate your input. Fill out our listener survey here.

Reimagining Franklin's quest for the Northwest Passage

When Sir John Franklin set out to find the Northwest Passage in 1845, he never returned. From that mystery, began the stories. But why do we keep coming back to these Franklin stories? What do they say about us? And what does it mean today to seek a Northwest Passage? *This episode originally aired on April 19, 2022.

Why Canadian patriotism isn't blind nationalism

The outrage over threats by the U.S. to become a 51st state indicates Canadian nationalism is very much alive. IDEAS shares this 1992 award-winning documentary, which includes music compositions inspired by Glenn Gould. Composer Christos Hatzis discusses the meaning and enduring relevance of The Idea of Canada, saying, "Canada allows you to be patriotic and not to be nationalist."Credits:Composer Christos HatzisProducer Steve WadhamsAudio engineers Laurence Stevenson and Rod Crocker.

Why the 1976 novel Bear is still controversial — and relevant

At the surface, Bear is about a woman who develops a sexual relationship with a bear. And though the 1976 novel earned Marian Engel a Governor General's award, it's been largely forgotten. Contributor Melissa Gismondi explores its mystery, meaning and relevance today. *This episode originally aired on January 4, 2021.

The best comedians in the U.S. are Canadians

It's a statement comedian Martha Chaves stands by. Canada produces legendary comedians and comic actors who excel on the world stage. So why is Canada not known for comedy? Does it have something to do with our proximity to the U.S., the way there are so many Scottish comedians performing in England? A panel of Canadian comedians discuss how to keep Canucks from fleeing to the states and build a thriving industry at home. This conversation is part of the Provocations-IDEAS festival.Comedians in this episode:Debra McGrath is a comedian, writer, and director whose comedy bona fides (yes, bona fides — this is IDEAS) began with Second City Improv, and is best-known for roles in Little Mosque on the Prairie, Seven Little Monsters and Paradise Falls.Stewart Reynolds (aka Brittlestar) is a Stratford, Ontario-based comedian. His work has brought him to the White House, and to meeting the Prime Minister. And of late, he’s become the bestselling author of the book: The Subtle Art of Resistance: Lessons From Cats For Surviving Fascism.Martha Chaves has made many TV appearances including Just for Laughs, We’re Funny That Way Festival, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival — and she’s often been heard on CBC's Laugh Out Loud, The Debaters, Because News — and now IDEAS!