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
Jul 17, 2020 • 45min
Sex Robots & Vegan Meat, with Jenny Kleeman and Carl Miller
Jenny Kleeman, an award-winning journalist and author, joins Carl Miller, a tech expert and research director, to explore the intriguing intersection of technology and human experience. They discuss the emergence of sex robots and vegan meat, probing their societal implications. Topics include the allure and ethical dilemmas surrounding hyper-realistic companions, the potential transformation of childbirth via artificial wombs, and the necessity for a conscious approach to integrating technology into our lives. The conversation invites reflection on what it means to be human in a rapidly changing world.
8 snips
Jul 14, 2020 • 45min
Angrynomics: Why The World is So Angry, with Mark Byth, Eric Lonergan and Linda Yueh
Join economist and broadcaster Linda Yueh as she engages with Mark Blyth, a professor and co-author of 'Angrynomics', and Eric Lonergan, who dives into the economic aspects of anger. They tackle the reasons behind rising societal anger despite growing wealth, revealing the link between economic disparities and moral outrage. Their innovative ideas, such as a National Wealth Fund and the 'data dividend' concept, aim to balance wealth and empower individuals. With humor, they reflect on personal relationships and the constructive potential of anger.
6 snips
Jul 10, 2020 • 49min
Outraged: Why Everyone is Shouting and No One is Talking, with Ashley 'Dotty' Charles and Ash Sarkar
Ashley 'Dotty' Charles, a BBC presenter and author, joins journalist Ash Sarkar for a lively discussion about outrage culture in today’s society. They unpack how social media fuels anger and its impact on mental health, while also exploring the complexities of activism in a digital age. The duo highlights the dangers of trivial grievances overshadowing genuine issues and the need for more effective outrage that drives real change. With candid reflections, they challenge listeners to navigate activism mindfully in a polarized world.
Jul 7, 2020 • 49min
Putin's People with Catherine Belton and Edward Lucas
Catherine Belton, a seasoned investigative journalist, uncovers the hidden machinations behind Vladimir Putin's rise to power, revealing his KGB roots and the intertwining of organized crime with state politics. Edward Lucas, a noted security expert, joins the discussion, shedding light on Putin's hybrid warfare tactics and his manipulation of Western perceptions. They explore the impact of oligarchs, the complexities of Kremlin politics, and the evolving threat to democracy, providing a deep dive into Russia's turbulent landscape and its future.
Jul 3, 2020 • 1h 4min
Debate: Iran Is Not Our Enemy
In this lively discussion, journalist Mehdi Hassan and gender expert Azadeh Moaveni challenge the conventional view of Iran as an enemy, while Brexit advocate Daniel Hannan and political analyst Salman Al-Ansari provide counterpoints. They delve into the historical context of U.S.-Iran relations, emphasizing Iran’s cultural contributions and potential for partnership. The conversation critically examines the impact of sanctions and advocates for a nuanced foreign policy focused on diplomacy over hostility, ultimately shifting audience perceptions about Iran's role on the global stage.
Jun 30, 2020 • 1h 9min
City on Fire: The Fight for Hong Kong, With Antony Dapiran and Shirley Yu
The conversation dives deep into the turbulent protests in Hong Kong that began in 2019. It explores the controversial national security law, its implications for local governance, and the evolving identity of Hong Kong residents. The historical context of the Umbrella Movement is highlighted, showcasing its influence on today’s demonstrations. The adaptability of leaderless protest movements is discussed, alongside their organizational strategies. Finally, the podcast emphasizes the importance of international attention and potential sanctions as means to support Hong Kong's political struggles.
Jun 26, 2020 • 1h 1min
The Reckoning: Kwame Kwei-Armah and Idris Elba on the Arts and Black Lives Matter
Kwame Kwei-Armah, the artistic director of the Young Vic Theatre, joins A-list actor Idris Elba for a powerful discussion on the intersection of art and social justice. They explore the role of the arts in the Black Lives Matter movement and the urgent need for authentic representation in film and theater. The duo reflects on resilience, generational activism, and the hopeful potential for systemic change in the creative industries. Their candid conversation also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and accountability in the pursuit of equity.
Jun 23, 2020 • 1h 7min
We Need To Talk: Me and White Supremacy, with Layla Saad and Emma Dabiri
Layla Saad, author of 'Me and White Supremacy', and Emma Dabiri, a renowned academic and broadcaster, engage in a powerful conversation about racial justice. They discuss the personal and societal responsibilities that emerged from the Black Lives Matter movement, emphasizing individual roles in combating systemic racism. Their insights cover the emotional complexity of newfound interest in anti-racism, the significance of ancestral connections, and the impact of Black activism on wider social movements. Together, they explore the ongoing necessity for dialogue and sustained commitment in the fight against white supremacy.
Jun 19, 2020 • 50min
Unravelling Unconscious Bias, with Dr Pragya Agarwal and Kavita Puri
Dr. Pragya Agarwal, an expert in unconscious bias and author of "Sway," joins BBC broadcaster Kavita Puri for a compelling conversation. They explore the origins of implicit biases, touching on technology and societal impacts. The discussion covers the complexities of bias beyond race and gender, including beauty and accents. They also critique the use of the term BAME and emphasize the necessity for awareness and proactive strategies to combat discrimination. Listeners gain insights into fostering inclusivity and better communication.
Jun 16, 2020 • 50min
Why do Evangelicals Worship at the Altar of Donald Trump? With Sarah Posner and Brian Klaas
In this intriguing discussion, Sarah Posner, author of 'Unholy,' and Brian Klaas, Washington Post columnist, dive into the puzzling ties between Donald Trump and white evangelical Christians. They explore how Trump's presidency has reshaped evangelical identity and engagement in politics. The conversation touches on the dynamics of strongman leadership within the religious right, the rationalizations for their support, and the implications this alliance has for democracy. Expect insights into how faith, politics, and power intersect in today's America.
