Join Arik Brückner, Co-founder and CEO of CHOICE, as he dives into the ethics of paid companionship and the transformative potential of technology in the sex industry. He discusses how digital platforms can enhance trust and safety for users while navigating the complexities of client preferences. Arik highlights the legal landscape affecting paid services in the UK and the growing role of companionship in addressing social isolation. Explore the stigma around intimacy services and the importance of equitable access for all.

David Betz, a Professor of War at King's College London, explores the unsettling potential for civil unrest in Britain. He connects rising tensions to Brexit and warns of societal fragmentation driven by factionalism and economic instability. The discussion highlights the risks posed by 'feral cities' and the challenges facing urban infrastructure. Betz suggests the British government misjudges the situation, emphasizing the need for community preparedness and open dialogue to mitigate impending conflict and distrust towards institutions.

Nina Power, a philosopher and author noted for her insights on masculinity and societal imagery, dives into the heavy themes of iconoclasm and the psychological effects of pervasive imagery today. She tackles the complexities of media-induced beauty standards and their impact on women's self-image. The conversation humorously debates the blurred lines of pornography and infidelity, critiques media representation, and examines women's clothing choices as reflections of identity. Power's perspectives shed light on the nuanced interplay between culture, technology, and personal expression.

In this insightful discussion, Poppy Coburn, Assistant Comment Editor at The Telegraph, unpacks the deep-rooted issues surrounding grooming gangs in the UK. She draws alarming parallels between these modern scandals and the Catholic Church's historical abuses. The conversation dives into the misogyny faced by white women and the tensions among gender-critical feminists. Coburn also critiques the media's handling of these sensitive topics, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and transparent investigations to combat misinformation and societal division.

In this episode, Johann Kurtz, a pseudonymous author known for his insights on historical fertility and social status, delves into intriguing dynamics between status and reproduction. He discusses how social hierarchies influence fertility trends, challenging traditional views of wealth and religion's roles. Kurtz also explores the Enlightenment's paradox, revealing its unexpected impact on birth rates. With compelling case studies from Georgia and South Korea, he examines how status shapes parenthood choices and critiques contemporary narratives around women's roles in family planning.

In this engaging discussion, Meghan Daum, host of 'The Unspeakable' and creator of 'The Unspeakeasy', shares her insights on choosing a life without children. She critiques the term 'childfree' and explores societal stigmas around childlessness. The conversation dives into the pressures of modern parenthood, gender roles, and the complexities of dating today. With humor, she navigates the challenges of relationships in a tech-driven world, highlighting the impact of matchmaking systems and declining birth rates in various cultures.

In this discussion, Ed West, an insightful author known for his works on immigration and conservatism, tackles the Rotherham crisis and its significant political consequences. He delves into the complexities surrounding sexual abuse awareness, societal perceptions of crime, and the influence of media narratives. The conversation also critiques the superficial understanding of multiculturalism among the British middle class and examines the critical role of digital platforms in shaping public discourse and awareness of these pressing issues.

Join John Tosh, a prominent historian specializing in masculinity, as he delves into the intricate world of 19th-century male roles influenced by the Industrial Revolution. He explores how domesticity redefined masculinity and the evolution of companionate marriage, balancing patriarchy with mutual care. Tosh also discusses shifting attitudes toward domestic violence and the impact of social class on perceptions of abuse. Lastly, he examines the role of fatherhood in contemporary society versus historical expectations.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Michael Bailey, a renowned researcher in sexual orientation and author of "The Man Who Would Be Queen," unpacks the complexities of autogynephilia. He dives into its implications for gender identity, the psychological challenges faced by those transitioning, and societal misconceptions. Bailey also addresses the controversial backlash to his work, reflecting on the evolving views of trans identities. He further explores the cultural influences on paraphilias and the interplay of sexuality and evolutionary theory.

Paul Seabright, a Professor of Economics at the University of Toulouse and author of 'The Divine Economy', explores the intricate ties between religion and economics. He discusses how impoverished individuals often invest heavily in religious communities, highlighting the social benefits they offer. The conversation covers the appeal of strict religious practices versus liberal ones, and how Christianity historically catered to marginalized groups. Seabright emphasizes the ongoing competition among religions, likening it to natural selection in attracting followers.