Portrait of Lord Melvyn Bragg, host of In Our Time

Western esotericism

Western esotericism, also known as esotericism, esoterism, and sometimes the Western mystery tradition, is a term scholars use to categorise a wide range of loosely related ideas and movements that developed within Western society. These ideas and currents are united since they are largely distinct both from orthodox Judeo-Christian religion and Enlightenment rationalism.

3 episodes

Episodes in this category also belong to the following categories:

  1. Alchemy

    Melvyn Bragg discusses the pursuit of Alchemy, its history and legacy. What ideas could transform base metals into gold?

    24 February 2005

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    Featuring: Peter Forshaw, Lauren Kassell, Stephen Pumfrey

     
  2. Gnosticism

    Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Gnosticism, a religious sect associated with early Christianity.

    2 May 2013

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    Featuring: Martin Palmer, Caroline Humfress, Alastair Logan

     
  3. Neoplatonism

    Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Neoplatonism, a mystical school of thought founded by the third century philosopher Plotinus.

    19 April 2012

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    Featuring: Angie Hobbs, Peter Adamson, Anne Sheppard