Intelligence Squared

In this engaging discussion, Tim Wigmore, Deputy Cricket Correspondent and author of 'Test Cricket: A History', delves into the evolution of Test cricket since its 1877 inception. He examines the sport's inequalities and how factors like race and infrastructure shape who competes. Tim also explores cricket's ties to the British Empire, India's rise in the game, and the coexistence of the IPL with Test cricket. Furthermore, he highlights the significance of captaincy, the ongoing competitive imbalance, and the unique rituals of Test fandom.

For centuries, mental and physical health have been divided - disorders of the mind and body have been treated as if they were poles apart. This deep-rooted division has shaped medicine, psychiatry, and society. But what if this mind/body split is not only outdated - but dangerously misleading? Psychiatrist and neuroscientist Professor Edward Bullmore is Regius Professor of Psychiatry at Kings College London. For this episode, he sat down with Dr Güneş Taylor to explore the historical and philosophical reasons for our separation of mind and body in modern medicine. With a focus on the dark history of our treatment of schizophrenia, from 17th century medicine to the emergence of psychiatry in the 19th century, to the eugenics movement of Nazi Germany, he shows how the modern foundations of psychiatry were established, and how new scientific discoveries can help revolutionise how we treat mental illness. The Divided Mind: Uncovering psychiatry's dark past - and reimagining it's future by Professor Edward Bullmore is available to buy now. --- If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events  ...  Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Hannah French, a broadcaster and musicologist, dives into the intricate relationship between Vivaldi's Four Seasons and nature. She explores how Vivaldi's experiences in Mantua shaped his work, the symbolism of birds in his concertos, and the unique psychological portrayal of each season. Dr. French reveals how modern climate challenges resonate with Vivaldi’s music and shares her personal journey of seasonal listening, advocating for 15-minute rituals to deepen our connection to nature through sound.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Anjana Khatwa, an award-winning Earth Scientist and author, unearths the hidden narratives within our landscapes. She illustrates how rocks are not mere objects but are vital storytellers of history and culture. Dr. Khatwa emphasizes the importance of blending Western geology with Indigenous perspectives, revealing the emotional and ancestral connections we can forge with stones. She also addresses the ethical dilemmas of mineral demand and highlights how engaging with our local geology can deepen our understanding of the world.

In a lively debate, Edward Lucas, a columnist specializing in information warfare, argues for the strategic use of targeted sanctions. Tom Keating, a sanctions expert, cites success stories like the Iran deal. Conversely, Ian Proud, a former diplomat, shares firsthand experiences of sanctions failing against Russia. Rebecca Harding, a trade economist, critiques poor strategies that lead to economic fallout. The discussion also delves into the complexities of measuring sanctions' effectiveness and their unintended consequences on ordinary citizens.

Hannah Kent, an acclaimed Australian novelist known for her works like Burial Rites, explores her deep connection to Iceland in this discussion. She shares how her first trip at 17 shaped her identity as a writer. Kent reveals how learning Icelandic transformed her sense of belonging and opened her to the culture's rich history. She reflects on the creativity sparked by her homesickness and how storytelling bridges personal and communal experiences, further underlining Iceland's unique influence on her literary journey.

Ece Temelkuran, an award-winning Turkish writer and political commentator exiled for her critiques of President Erdoğan, dives deep into the threats of authoritarianism and populism. She discusses the importance of labeling movements like fascism correctly and explores why many young people are attracted to authoritarian leaders. Temelkuran also emphasizes the need for creative resistance and moral purpose in dark times, highlighting lessons from global experiences to rebuild political faith and inspire action against creeping tyranny.

Ece Temelkuran, an award-winning Turkish writer and political thinker exiled for her critiques of President Erdoğan, delves into the subtle onset of authoritarianism. She reveals how movements manufacture victimhood to gain loyalty and discusses the uncomfortable truth of journalists as early targets in oppressive regimes. Temelkuran reflects on the value of exile and crystallizes the need for a moral transformation in politics. With a call for renewed solidarity, she examines how crises expose the stark realities of good and evil, urging a return to democracy rooted in dignity.

Nicklas Brendborg, a Danish scientist and author of the bestseller Jellyfish Age Backwards, explores our addiction to supernormal stimuli. He dissects how modern food and screen designs manipulate our biology to keep us hooked. Discussing the effects of ultra-processed foods and addictive algorithms, Brendborg highlights the challenges of desensitization and overconsumption. He advocates for awareness, practical tools to manage screen time, and the potential of medical interventions to restore balance in our reward systems.

Helena Newman, Sotheby’s Chairman of Impressionist and Modern Art, shares insights on Klimt’s unique portrait techniques. Flavia Frigeri discusses the vibrant Viennese culture that influenced Klimt's work, while James Stourton highlights the broader cultural significance of Leonard Lauder's collection. They explore Klimt's evolution from his golden period to softer landscapes, the impact of World War I, and Lauder's philanthropic legacy in the art world. Together, they delve into the fascinating stories behind iconic pieces, including the extraordinary Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer.