Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared is the home of lively debate and deep-dive discussion. Follow Intelligence Squared wherever you get your podcasts and enjoy four regular episodes per week taking you to the heart of the issues that matter in the company of the world’s great minds. We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be. Send us an email or voice note with your thoughts to podcasts@intelligencesquared.com or Tweet us @intelligence2. And if you’d like to support our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations, as well as ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content, early access and much more, become a supporter of Intelligence Squared today. Just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
24 snips
Nov 9, 2025 • 34min
Is This the Twilight of American Supremacy? Simon Jenkins on Why the World Needs the USA
Simon Jenkins, a renowned historian and journalist, explores the complex dynamics of American history and politics. He delves into the delicate balance between state and federal power that has enabled the U.S. to thrive despite its internal divisions. Jenkins highlights the enduring influence of populism and the importance of historical figures like Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt. He expresses concerns about today's political climate while advocating for America's unique role as a beacon of freedom and prosperity, underscoring the global ramifications of its decline.
Nov 7, 2025 • 30min
Olivia Laing on Passion and Heartbreak in the Golden Age of New Italian Cinema
Olivia Laing, an acclaimed writer known for her insightful reflections on art and society, discusses her latest novel, The Silver Book. She explores the intertwining of love and power within the context of Italian cinema, focusing on the provocative works of Federico Fellini and Pier Paolo Pasolini. Laing dissects the political significance of Pasolini's Salò and the impact of 1970s Italy on filmmaking. She reflects on how AI threatens traditional craft, the moral complexities of her characters, and how her writing process has enhanced her film appreciation.
14 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 43min
Salman Rushdie on Mortality, Memory and The Eleventh Hour
Salman Rushdie, the award-winning novelist celebrated for his works like Midnight's Children, discusses his new short story collection, The Eleventh Hour, with journalist Kavita Puri. He shares insights on mortality and memory, emphasizing the impact of his diverse homes—India, England, and America. Rushdie reflects on the dangers of rising nationalism and censorship, highlighting the essential role of free speech and literature in society. He also reveals his writing journey, shifting from meticulous planning to spontaneous storytelling.
7 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 34min
What was the Iranian Revolution really about? With Scott Anderson
Scott Anderson, a veteran foreign reporter and contributing writer for The New York Times, delves into the dramatic events surrounding the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the Shah’s downfall in his new book, King of Kings. He shares fascinating insights on the small inner circle that shaped the Shah’s fate and the warnings ignored by important figures like Farah Pahlavi. Discussing U.S. misinterpretations and the revolution’s far-reaching global consequences, Anderson reflects on the enduring complexity of Iran and its evolving identity in the current geopolitical landscape.
11 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 37min
The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook with Jeremy Hunt (Part Two)
Jeremy Hunt, former UK Chancellor of the Exchequer and author, shares his vision for Britain's economic revival. He argues for welfare reforms that prioritize rapid treatment and return-to-work support. Hunt explores the potential for the UK to thrive inside or outside the EU and emphasizes the need for faster government processes. He discusses balancing relations with China and the US, sustainable growth amid the shift to clean energy, and the importance of adaptability in housing and migration policies. His insights challenge prevailing pessimism with a call for action.
18 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 36min
The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook with Jeremy Hunt (Part One)
In this conversation, Jeremy Hunt, former UK Chancellor and author of 'Can We Be Great Again?', shares his optimistic vision for Britain's economic renewal. He discusses how the UK can still influence global affairs and excel as a tech hub, citing its robust universities and startup culture. Hunt reflects on his time as Chancellor during a crisis, highlighting inflation battles and missed opportunities in welfare reform. He also tackles the need for public-sector productivity improvements, focusing on NHS reforms to enhance efficiency.
30 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 49min
What Are The Essentials for Reimagining Work with AI Agents?
In this discussion, Aaron Levie, co-founder and CEO of Box, shares insights on the future of work with AI agents. He emphasizes that organizations are facing a data problem rather than an AI problem. Levie explains how AI agents can unlock value from unstructured data and highlights the importance of governance and security in leveraging these tools. He encourages lean experimentation and scalability, while also addressing the need for AI literacy among teams. Ultimately, he envisions a future where AI reallocates tasks, freeing humans for more creative work.
26 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 33min
The Age of the Strongman: Understanding Trump, with Anne Applebaum (Part Two)
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian known for her insights on authoritarianism, joins host Gideon Rachman for a deep dive into Trump’s leadership style. They explore whether Trump fits the 'strongman' mold alongside global figures like Putin and Xi. Applebaum discusses Trump's admiration for authoritarian leaders and his potential to undermine democratic norms. They debate the impact of his administration on U.S. alliances and the likelihood of internal conflict within the MAGA movement. Is Trump more authoritarian than before? Applebaum's perspective sheds light on the unfolding drama.
36 snips
Oct 25, 2025 • 38min
The Age of the Strongman: Understanding Trump, with Anne Applebaum (Part One)
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian known for her work on authoritarianism, joins host Gideon Rachman to explore the implications of Donald Trump's leadership style. They dive into the traits that define a 'strongman', contrasting Trump's approach to past autocrats like Putin. Applebaum discusses the radicalization of Trump's second term and how his administration could reshape federal institutions and democracy. The conversation highlights concerns about authoritarian tactics, media influence, and the financial motives behind political maneuvers.
Oct 23, 2025 • 39min
Lyse Doucet on Reporting from the Frontlines (Part Two)
Lyse Doucet, the BBC's Chief International Correspondent with 40 years of frontline experience, reflects on her career in this insightful discussion. She shares poignant stories from her time in Afghanistan, including the symbolism of a wedding dress left unworn amidst turmoil. Doucet emphasizes the role of food in culture, spotlighting Abeda, the first female chef at the Inter-Continental Hotel, whose resilience is inspiring. The conversation also touches on her recent coverage from Gaza and the stark contrasts in Afghan women's rights under different regimes.
