Meeting of Minds, Volume VIII

Conceived and developed by Steve Allen, the award-winning PBS-TV series Meeting of the Minds brought together the most provocative figures of history for conversation and conflict.

Poetry, philosophy, politics and revolution form a lively mix of topics in this, the eighth gathering of influential intellects from several centuries.

Sun Yat-Sen describes the circumstances that facilitated radical upheaval in 20th-century China. In the process he finds it necessary to defend his style of leadership against the critical condescension of Machiavelli, who insists that his own analysis of politics assures greater and more lasting success. Elizabeth Barrett Browning, at times accompanied by her dog, Flush, recalls a life profoundly influenced by extremes of paternal oppression and romantic love. And Aristotle sheds the sublime light of reason and elegant thought on all the proceedings.

Once again, Steve Allen provides a clearing for the stimulating exchange of ideas in a context that simultaneously entertains and enlightens his audience.