Philosophy Tea - George Orwell

“War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength.”
The Nightmarish World of George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-four (1949).

The legacy of Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-four is well established. Phrases such as “Big Brother is watching you”, and terms such as “doublethink” and “thoughtcrime” and “1984” itself have entered our political vocabulary. In this philosophy tea we will be looking at the story behind the novel and the reasons for its continued relevance. We will also be discussing how Orwell constructs this nightmarish world and whether the novel leaves any room for hope.

This episode was recorded and edited at Reginateatern, which also served as the host venue for the event on 24 September 2019.

Producer: Paul Kessel

The Philosophy Tea talks were held regularly at the Regina Theatre in Uppsala from 2014 to 2021. During these well attended events – where tea, scones and jam were served – Professor Peter Wallensteen and Guest Lecturer Daniel Ogden, both of Uppsala University, discussed thinkers who have contributed to our understanding of peace and justice. In all, 40 sessions were held, of which 31 are recorded. The session were also supported by Uppsala University as part of its outreach activities.