Intelligence Squared

Derek Thompson, a staff writer at The Atlantic and host of the Plain English podcast, teams up with writer Carl Miller to dive into the politics of abundance. They explore how current barriers, particularly in housing policy, hinder progress in liberal democracy. Thompson critiques the Democratic Party's disconnect from voters, especially the youth, while discussing the impact of restrictive regulations on urban development. The conversation also touches on innovative solutions for sustainable infrastructure and the tension between growth and environmental needs.

Shaun Walker, an international correspondent for The Guardian with extensive experience in Russian affairs, discusses his book on Soviet espionage with journalist Carl Miller. They dive into the fascinating history of Russia’s deep cover spies and how these 'illegals' operated under false identities, revealing both astonishing successes and costly failures. The conversation covers the ongoing impact of this covert world on modern geopolitics, along with the psychological toll on spies who lived dual lives amidst state terror and political upheaval.

Carl Öhman, an assistant professor at Uppsala University and author of *The Afterlife of Data*, teams up with Stephanie Hare, a researcher and author of *Technology is Not Neutral*, to unravel the enigma of our digital afterlives. They delve into whether we truly own our data after death and the ethical dilemmas facing tech companies in managing deceased users' accounts. The conversation raises pressing questions about digital legacies, the permanence of our online footprints, and the responsibilities we hold for our virtual selves.

Dr. Moudhy Al-Rashid, an Honorary Fellow at Oxford specializing in ancient Mesopotamia, explores the thrilling legacy of this civilization. She discusses the inception of writing and how it transformed society, along with captivating stories of everyday people—like Latubashini, an enslaved mother fighting for freedom. Al-Rashid highlights the often-overlooked humanity in Mesopotamian texts and shares insights on how their personal struggles with love and ambition resonate even today. Dive into this fascinating blend of history and human experience!

Join Robert Kaplan, a geopolitical expert and bestselling author, as he navigates the turbulent waters of global instability. He draws intriguing parallels between today's crises and the Weimar Republic, stressing the importance of historical context. Kaplan argues for prioritizing order and historic liberalism over mass democracy to combat the chaotic future ahead. The discussion spans the dynamics between the U.S., China, and India, the risks of polarization in American politics, and insights on military policy amid the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

Join Robert Kaplan, a geopolitical expert and bestselling author, as he dives into the turbulent global landscape of 2025. He draws parallels between today's crises and the Weimar Republic, emphasizing the need for order amidst chaos. Kaplan explores technology's dual role in exacerbating conflicts and the fragility of democracy. He also discusses America’s influence on global stability, scrutinizing NATO’s role and the fragility of modern autocracies like Russia and China. With keen insights, he suggests that historic liberalism may be key to navigating the future.

In this thrilling conversation, David Farr, a talented screenwriter known for adapting John le Carré's works, champions the gritty realism of le Carré against Ian Fleming's glamorous James Bond. They dive into the contrasting styles of these literary giants, discussing how Fleming's high-octane adventures shape popular culture while le Carré exposes the moral ambiguities of espionage. Actors bring both authors' narratives to life, highlighting unforgettable moments and the deeper emotional landscapes that define the world of spies. This lively debate illuminates what makes each author unique.

Ian Leslie, author of "John and Paul: A Love Story in Songs," dives deep into the remarkable, complex relationship between John Lennon and Paul McCartney. He reveals how their contrasting personalities fueled their creativity and shaped The Beatles' iconic sound. The discussion highlights the emotional weight behind songs like 'Yesterday' and how their bond evolved post-Beatles, influenced by partners such as Yoko Ono and Linda McCartney. Leslie captures the essence of their musical dialogue, filled with tension, regret, and enduring affection.

Ian Leslie, a writer and author of "John and Paul: A Love Story in Songs," delves into the intricate relationship between John Lennon and Paul McCartney. He explores their early years in Liverpool, marked by shared dreams and emotional struggles. The duo's unique bond blended friendship, rivalry, and collaboration, shaping their groundbreaking music. Leslie illustrates how their songwriting evolved from youthful encounters to iconic tracks, reflecting their complicated emotions even post-breakup, revealing a dialogue that captivated generations.

Join historian Emily Callaci, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, as she revisits the bold Wages for Housework movement from the 1970s. Callaci discusses the fight for recognizing unpaid domestic labor as real work, intertwining feminist thought with historical movements. She highlights the struggles that marginalized women face in the Global South and addresses the impacts of capitalism on environmental racism. The conversation digs deep into redefining labor, challenging gender norms, and empowering women's voices in activism.