What would Harry do?

That’s exactly what BBC Radio Four asked in a special half-hour program dedicated to the power of fans and whether they can change the world.

Jolyon Jenkins, the presenter of the program, discusses the power that a large fan community, such as the Harry Potter fandom, can have in the real world. Jenkins looks at fandom and what it means to be a part of a fandom nowadays.

Andrew Slack, founder of The Harry Potter Alliance speaks about engaging the Harry Potter fandom in a Dumbledore’s Army for the real world. “If they [the Harry Potter characters] can do it, then why not us?” Andrew asks.

He further says that, “fantasy is not an escape from our world but an invitation to go deeper into it.”

While the program primarily discusses the power of the Harry Potter community, it also considers the power of other fandoms, such as Lady Gaga’s fanbase. Hannah Hart, John and Hank Green, and Nerdfighteria are also featured.

It is a fascinating half-hour discussion that looks into the power of fandom, from an outsider’s point of view, and considers the way that fan communities can unite to change the way things are. It’s certainly well worth a listen!

UK listeners can listen on the BBC website now.

Did you listen? What did you think of the way it was presented? Are you involved with something like The Harry Potter Alliance because of the books?