Holmes Rolston III began his career as a Presbyterian minister. But his love of the natural world -- and his belief in evolution -- didn't sit well with his congregation. He was ultimately fired. Rolston spent much of his career working to bridge the gap between science and religion because he said "the future of Earth depends on it." His ultimate goal was to define the moral worth of the planet. In his 40 year career as a philosopher, Rolston founded environmental ethics, a turning point in philosophy. Rolston died in 2025 at the age of 92.

In this episode, IDEAS explores his legacy and the continuing resonance of his work.

Maria Chapdelaine: A Tale of French Canada, written by Louis Hémon in 1913, is one of the most widely read works of fiction ever written in French. Yet today, the book remains far less known in English Canada and the English-speaking world. It is the world's highest-selling French book, and has been translated into over 20 languages. The book has inspired four film versions, several plays, an opera, and even a pop song. Contributor Catherine Annau examines the many lives that Maria Chapdelaine has lived, and continues to live.

Would you 'doo-be-doo' if you know it would help bridge divides? Try vocal improvisation — singing sounds, rhythms and melodies. PhD candidate Erwan Noblet teaches the practice and says it's a great way to open up and connect at another level being together. He believes the human voice has the power to communicate creatively when it's released from everyday verbal tasks. We asked three former politicians from different political parties to communicate through vocalization, without words. Their conversation may inspire you to take on vocal improv.

*This episode is part of our ongoing series Ideas in the Trenches, which showcases fascinating new work by Canadian PhD students.