In his first lecture, recorded at Middle Temple in London in front of an audience, Jonathan Sumption argues that, until the 19th century, law only dealt with a very narrow range of human problems. But that has changed radically. And he says that the growth of the law, driven by a demand for greater security and less risk, means we have less liberty.

A version for television of the programme first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on Tuesday 21 May. Show less