Radio choice Charlotte Runcie

A History of Delusions RADIO 4, 1.45PM

In Paris in 1840, the year that Napoleon’s body was returned to the city, 14 people claiming to be “Emperor Napoleon” were admitted to the city’s Bicêtre Asylum. The delusion of grandeur is a relatively common psychological phenomenon, as experimental psychologist Daniel Freeman explores in this new 10-part series about different types of delusion. As preview tapes of the whole series weren’t available, I cannot confirm whether Freeman will burst the desperate delusions of those who think that Jaffa Cakes are biscuits.

Belonging RADIO 4, 8.00PM

Former cabinet minister Douglas Alexander presents this series on what he calls “a crisis in belonging”, with a country divided socially and economically, and fear growing from such stark divisions. He speaks to migrants cut adrift from their homes, and to people who feel that the culture of their own towns and cities has changed after those years of migration. He also discusses with experts the psychological importance of a sense of belonging, and the pernicious effects of feeling as though we’re somewhere we no longer belong.