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Rethink returns with a new series on society, technology and change

Rethink returns with a new series on society, technology and change

Posted on 6 January 2026 • TV and radio

The fifth series of the BBC/Open University radio programme Rethink begins Thursday 15 January at 4pm on BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds. The series continues its exploration of issues across politics, society, economics, technology and culture, asking how we might approach them differently in the future.

The weekly four-part series tackles a diverse range of themes, from how we understand and experience middle age, to the meaning of urban regeneration, what artificial intelligence is actually for, and the changing nature of authenticity in contemporary life.

Academic consultant to the series, Professor Simon Usherwood, Professor of Politics and International Studies said:

“Rethink asks us to look at the world around us with a critical eye, to consider why things are the way they are and to explore opportunities to make change. Whether discussing the regeneration of our towns and cities, how we can be our authentic selves online or trying to find the ‘killer app’ of AI, the series is a chance to think, discuss and act. This really chimes with our work at The Open University to help everyone develop the skills and understanding to play an active and informed role in their communities and societies.”

Supporting Online content: Discover our interactive guide on bias on OU Connect, written by Dr Jim Turner, examining how our opinions are shaped, not just by facts, but by the mental shortcuts we all use.

This series was commissioned by Broadcast and Partnerships and is supported by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, with particular relevance to BA (Hons) Social Sciences, BA (Hons) Politics, Philosophy and Economics and Introducing the Social Sciences.