Fear From the Book - A series on books of enormous influence that struck fear into the establishment of the day. - The Rights of Man, published over 200 years ago, alarmed all those who dreaded revolution in Europe. In it Thomas Paine called for government to be elected by the people. It became illegal even to mention the author's name; yet in England, masses of people would sing "God save great Thomas Paine" to the tune of the national anthem. ABC Radio National, Wednesday, January 19, 5.10 p.m.
As I Recall ... - Joe Slovo - Part of a series with four people with inside knowledge of events that changed the shape of the world. Joe Slovo relates the true story behind the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa, which left 67 peaceful demonstrators dead. The massacre convinced the ANC that it was time to embrace armed struggle. Joe Slovo was a founder member of the ANC military wing and is long-time leader of the South African Communist Party. ABC Radio National, Wednesday, January 19, 5.30 p.m.
Fear From the Book - On the Origin of Species. Charles Darwin's theory of evolution in this book struck fear into the hearts of the church and state alike as it contradicted the Bible's account of creation. ABC Radio National, Thursday, January 20, 5.10 p.m.
Fear From the Book - The Thoughts of Chairman Mao, published in 1966. The book was part of a factional battle between China's rulers, but has had a much wider influence. ABC Radio National, Friday, January 21, 5.10 p.m.
Owning Our History, Reconciliation Project - Owning Our Media - A series of one-hour programs developed on areas of critical concern both to indigenous Australians and society as a whole. Owning Our Media looks at how Aborigines are utilising the media, in all forms, to present themselves to a wider audience. The program also takes up the importance for Aborigines of having control over information and imagery about themselves and their culture. 2SER-FM, Sydney, Tuesday, January 25, 7 p.m.
Back Catalogue - The Countdown Years - From 1974 to 1987 Countdown dominated music television and shaped the tastes of a nation. This program revisits those Australian artists who achieved success on the strength of three minutes of fame. Music from Hush, Sherbert, Dragon, John Paul Young, Skyhooks, Cold Chisel and many more, plus plenty of Countdown trivia. 2NUR-FM, Newcastle, Friday, January 21, 7 p.m.