Intelligence Squared

In this lively debate, Will Self, a novelist and political commentator, and Peter Hitchens, a conservative columnist, argue that there’s not much to be proud of in Britain. They delve into issues of national identity, reflecting on the complexities of modern British society. On the other side, former Labour MP Kate Hoey and Conservative peer Sayeeda Warsi highlight Britain's strengths, including its multiculturalism and contributions to global diplomacy. Personal anecdotes and sharp critiques abound as the panel engages passionately over Britain’s past, present, and future.

Join Dan Gretton, author of "I You We Them," as he dives deep into the chilling concept of 'desk killers'—those unseen architects of atrocities. With Ros Urwin of The Sunday Times, they unravel the psychological motivations behind these bureaucratic perpetrators. The conversation probes the banality of evil, touching on historical figures like Eichmann and the moral complexities of individuals like Albert Speer. They also connect past horrors to contemporary practices, challenging listeners to reflect on responsibility and humanity.

BJ Fogg, a groundbreaking research psychologist from Stanford and author of 'Tiny Habits,' shares insights into habit formation and behavior change. He discusses how tiny habits can lead to significant life improvements and explores their application in technology. Fogg critiques the ethical implications of persuasive tech and offers strategies for reducing digital addiction through behavior design. He emphasizes the importance of emotional connections in forming impactful habits and calls for a balance between technology's benefits and its potential manipulative effects.

Erling Kagge, the first man to walk to all three poles, shares his adventurous spirit and philosophical insights with BBC's Razia Iqbal. They discuss overcoming self-doubt and the struggle for self-actualization in personal and professional life. Kagge reflects on the importance of nurturing relationships over mere ambition. They explore the alarming trend of reduced outdoor activities for today’s youth and advocate for rekindling our connection to nature. Personal challenges like dyslexia and how they shape one's journey are also profoundly addressed.

In a riveting discussion, climate change expert Mike Berners-Lee, author of "There Is No Planet B," joins Matthew Taylor to tackle real actions for sustainability. They delve into the urgency of collective action against climate change, critiquing corporate greenwashing and the need for genuine accountability. The conversation navigates individual responsibility, emphasizing personal growth's role in societal change. They also explore the complexities of sustainability in fashion and draw parallels between changing attitudes towards smoking and the fight for a low-carbon future.

Tom Watson, former UK Labour Deputy Leader and author of "Downsizing," shares his inspiring journey of losing 8 stone and reversing his diabetes. He candidly discusses the emotional impact of his health struggles and emphasizes the role of supportive systems in overcoming obesity. Watson explores the myths surrounding sugar and fat, the political ramifications of public health policies, and the pressing challenges facing the Labour Party post-election. His reflections intertwine personal health with broader societal issues, making for a compelling conversation.

Sonia Contera, a Professor of Biological Physics at the University of Oxford, joins science editor Tom Whipple to explore the fascinating realm of nanotechnology. They delve into how manipulating life's building blocks can revolutionize medicine, from groundbreaking cancer treatment strategies to innovations in tissue engineering. Contera highlights the interconnectedness of biology and physics, discussing the implications of environmental mechanics and the challenges posed by potential risks like 'grey goo.' Get ready to be amazed by the future possibilities!

Rana Foroohar, a global business columnist at FT and author of 'Don't Be Evil', joins journalist Ros Urwin to tackle the dark side of Big Tech. They discuss the exploitation of user data and the monopolistic control tech giants exert over society. Foroohar critiques how companies like Facebook and Google have lost their initial values, while Urwin shares insights on the challenges of regulating these behemoths. They highlight the urgent need for accountability, particularly regarding tech's impact on children’s mental health.

Jancis Robinson, an award-winning wine writer and the first non-trade Master of Wine, teams up with Oz Clarke, the former World Wine Tasting Champion, for an enticing debate on Old World versus New World wines. They share humorous tales of their first wine experiences and discuss how tradition meets modern innovation in the industry. The conversation tackles sustainability in wine production, the evolution of wine philosophies, and the significance of vine age while participants enjoy curated wine tastings from both worlds.

James Bennet, Opinion Editor at The New York Times, leads the innovative Privacy Project. Joined by tech journalist Jamie Bartlett, they dive into the complexities of privacy in our surveillance-laden world. They discuss the tension between individual privacy and societal security, the ethical dilemmas of data collection, and the trade-offs we face in an increasingly monitored landscape. The duo also examines the impact of quantum computing on encryption and the importance of adapting public policies to protect privacy in the digital age.