Beyond the Text: The Intellectual Historian's Podcast
Welcome to Beyond the Text, a podcast series dedicated to delving into intellectual history with depth and context. In a world saturated with quick takes, Beyond the Text goes the extra mile. Paying homage to Skinner's insights on the importance of context, this podcast unveils overlooked aspects of historical and intellectual narratives.
Co-hosted by Samuel Woodall and Jack Thomson, Beyond the Text explores the profound impact of thought and ideas throughout human history—forces that have driven change, shaped societies, and sparked revolutions. Beyond the mere words on the page, this podcast unravels the layers surrounding pivotal concepts and moments. Each episode meticulously examines the connections, influences, and societal currents that contribute to their evolution.
Join us on this journey to grasp the true significance of intellectual history. Whether you're an enthusiast, a curious mind, or someone intrigued by the myriad forces shaping our world, Beyond the Text provides a space for nuanced exploration. Tune in and venture beyond the surface to understand the rich tapestry of our intellectual heritage.
Samuel Woodall is a PhD candidate in Intellectual History at the University of Buckingham. He previously earned an MLitt in Intellectual History from the University of St. Andrews and a BA (Hons) in History and Politics from the University of Exeter.
Jack Thomson holds an MA in Philosophy from the University of Buckingham and brings a philosophical lens to the exploration of ideas, ensuring each discussion is both rigorous and thought-provoking.
Beyond the Text: The Intellectual Historian's Podcast
Beyond the Text: Moderation and Memory: Rapin de Thoyras and the Making of English Party
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🎓 A milestone moment in the PhD journey…
Last term, I had the privilege of delivering my first presentation of my doctoral research at the Humanities Research Day at the University of Buckingham — and what a moment it was.
Presenting “Moderation and Memory: Rapin de Thoyras and the Making of English Party” felt like more than just an academic exercise. It was the first time my work stepped out into the world — tested, shared, and given voice beyond the page.
💭 To stand and articulate months (and years!) of thought — on party, moderation, and the strange, indeterminate nature of the English constitution — was both daunting and deeply rewarding.
Rapin asks us: if England is neither monarchy, aristocracy, nor democracy… what is it? And from that question emerges my broader argument — that political parties are not failures of the system, but necessary expressions of it.
📚 This presentation marked a turning point:
- From research to communication
- From private writing to public argument
- From uncertainty to a growing confidence in my work
Most of all, I felt incredibly proud — not just of the ideas themselves, but of reaching a stage where I could contribute meaningfully to the wider academic conversation.
Here’s to many more discussions, debates, and discoveries ahead.
#PhDLife #IntellectualHistory #UniversityOfBuckingham #HistoryOfIdeas #AcademicJourney
