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
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.
Jun 12, 2020 • 1h 14min
Statues, Slavery and the Struggle for Equality with David Olusoga, Dawn Butler and Susan Neiman
David Olusoga, a historian and author of "Black and British: A Forgotten History", joins Labour MP Dawn Butler, known for her advocacy on racial justice, and philosopher Susan Neiman, who wrote "Learning from the Germans". They discuss the global protests ignited by George Floyd's death, the controversial removals of statues, and the complexities of historical narratives around slavery. They also highlight the impact of inclusive education and the role of youth activism in striving for equality and justice.
Jun 9, 2020 • 53min
The New Long Life: Flourishing in a Changing World, with Lynda Gratton and Andrew J Scott
Joining Tom Whipple are Lynda Gratton and Andrew J Scott, co-authors of 'The New Long Life,' who delve into the implications of living longer in an increasingly technological world. They discuss how aging affects our work, love, and learning, making a case for adaptable education and social resilience. The duo highlights the importance of enhancing human skills and the need for lifelong learning to prepare for job displacement. They envision a future where older workers thrive, redefining retirement and embracing diverse life paths.
Jun 5, 2020 • 1h
Anand Giridharadas on Capitalism in the Time of Corona
Anand Giridharadas, author of 'Winners Take All,' discusses capitalism's flaws in a post-pandemic world. He argues that the crisis is a chance to foster a more egalitarian society, while Matthew Taylor brings insights on the role of the state in this transformation. They explore the paradox of philanthropy, questioning whether charity truly alleviates inequality. Additionally, they consider how historical crises have sparked social change, emphasizing the need for collective action and robust public institutions to redefine our future.
Jun 2, 2020 • 1h 5min
The Passion Economy with Adam Davidson and Hugo Lindgren
Adam Davidson, a renowned business and economics journalist and creator of NPR's Planet Money, discusses his book, The Passion Economy, shedding light on the evolving economic landscape. He argues that the 21st-century offers unique opportunities for individuals to merge their passions with their careers. Davidson explores personal stories through generations, challenges faced in navigating one’s passions, and insights into consumer behavior. The conversation reveals how societal shifts can turn crises into opportunities for growth, particularly in urban settings.
May 29, 2020 • 57min
Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection, with Dr Vivek Murthy and Ros Urwin
Dr. Vivek Murthy, former US Surgeon General and author of 'Together,' joins Ros Urwin to explore the pervasive issue of loneliness. He shares insights on how it contributes to anxiety, depression, and even societal challenges like addiction and violence. Their conversation delves into the harmful health impacts of isolation, comparing it to smoking, and emphasizes the urgency of fostering human connections. They discuss navigating loneliness in our digital age and the potential of relationships to strengthen communities and combat polarization.
May 26, 2020 • 55min
Nervous States: How Feeling Took Over the World, with Will Davies and Carl Miller
In this engaging discussion, Will Davies, a Professor and author, teams up with Carl Miller, Research Director at Demos. They delve into why trust in facts and experts has dwindled, particularly during crises like COVID-19. The conversation explores how emotional responses have overshadowed rational discourse, the historical evolution of nationalism, and the challenges misinformation poses in modern politics. They also reflect on how shared beliefs and emotions shape community identity in an increasingly polarized world.
