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BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

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Something Understood

Religion & Ethics

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life, taking a spiritual theme and exploring it through music, prose and poetry

BBC Radio 4 LW

Something Understood: I'm a Number, Not a Man

I'm a Number, Not a Man

26/02/2012

BBC Radio 4 - Something Understood, I'm a Number, Not a Man

Jo Fidgen explores how modern society challenges our sense of self.

In a society based on managerial principles, Jo Fidgen asks if it is possible that our numbers count more than our names.

In a society based on managerial principles, is it possible that our numbers count more than our names? 
Jo Fidgen explores challenges to our sense of self.

She talks to an American man known as Benjaman who was found suffering from amnesia with no personal identification on him and, without a social security number, no means of re-engaging with society. And she also references the writings of, among others, WH Auden, George Orwell and Jose Saramago, with music by Erik Satie, the Kinks and Shostakovich.


Produced by Alan Hall
A Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4.

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

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