Intelligence Squared

Lyse Doucet, the BBC's Chief International Correspondent, shares her remarkable journey from a small Canadian town to the frontline of global conflicts. She discusses the unique challenges of being a female journalist in war zones like Afghanistan and Syria, emphasizing empathy in storytelling. Doucet reflects on the emotional weight of reporting women's stories from ISIS-affected areas, highlighting resilience amid despair. With personal anecdotes, she showcases the profound connections journalists form while navigating the complexities of conflict and humanity.

In this engaging discussion, Pete Etchells, a researcher into the psychological effects of video games and author of *Lost In A Good Game*, is joined by journalist Ros Urwin. They explore the potential benefits video games offer, including emotional depth and community building, while dissecting the myths around gaming addiction. They highlight how games can foster empathy and even navigate moral dilemmas. Etchells also addresses concerns about violent video games, advocating for a balanced understanding of their impact on behavior.

Join best-selling author Philip Pullman, famous for his His Dark Materials trilogy, as he shares the formative experiences that shaped his unique voice. He reflects on his childhood, including the deep influence of his grandfather's storytelling and the loss of his father. Pullman discusses the literary giants like Kipling and Milton who inspired him, and how embracing creativity has fueled his writing process. With insights into his journey from teacher to writer, this conversation unveils the artistry behind his compelling narratives.

Shoshana Zuboff, a Harvard professor and author, explores the dark world of surveillance capitalism. She reveals how tech giants commodify our personal data, driving inequality and impacting democracy. Zuboff discusses the ethical dilemmas of user data exploitation and the growing awareness of its threats to privacy. Alongside journalist Rosamund Urwin, she examines the strategies of major companies to address privacy issues while maintaining profit, highlighting the need for stronger regulations and collective action against data misuse.

Mark Millar, a best-selling comic-book writer known for his iconic works like Kick-Ass and Kingsman, shares his journey from a small Scottish town to the heights of Marvel and Netflix. He recounts how childhood encounters with Superman sparked his passion for storytelling and shaped his creative voice. Millar delves into the impact of a politically charged Britain on his growth, the significance of personal experiences in crafting relatable characters, and how parenthood transformed his narrative and ambitions.

Ibram X. Kendi, founding director of the Antiracism Research and Policy Center and author of How To Be an Antiracist, joins BBC presenter Razia Iqbal for a profound discussion on racism. They explore the crucial distinction between being non-racist and actively anti-racist. Kendi shares personal stories illustrating the importance of self-reflection and confession in anti-racism. They critique systemic oppression's impact on racial narratives and discuss the intersection of capitalism and racism, advocating for actionable change toward equality.

In this enlightening discussion, Michael Pollan, an acclaimed food writer and author of 'How To Change Your Mind,' and science broadcaster Dr. Xand van Tulleken dive into the transformative potential of psychedelics. They explore how substances like psilocybin can aid in treating depression and addiction, and even reshape perceptions of death. The conversation touches on the historical significance of psychedelics in counterculture, their political implications, and their ability to foster personal growth and deeper emotional engagement.

A molecular biologist dives into the revolutionary realm of gene editing, exploring how CRISPR can transform health and agriculture. Ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic modifications, particularly the risks of exacerbating inequality and enhancing human traits, spark important discussions. Innovations in treating sickle cell disease using patients' own cells showcase real-world applications of these technologies. The conversation also touches on regulatory challenges, emphasizing the need for responsible practices as gene editing reshapes our future.

Delve into the 'leadership industrial complex' and how it exaggerates the intricacies of leadership. Explore personal journeys through setbacks that redefine effective leadership. Discover the critical impacts of decision-making and the associated risks of inaction. Challenge the corporate reliance on buzzwords and emphasize execution over mere innovation. Learn about the interplay between leadership in sports and business, underscoring resilience and graciousness as vital qualities for success.

Mark Galeotti, a respected Russia expert and author of "We Need to Talk About Putin," joins journalist Edward Lucas for an eye-opening discussion on Vladimir Putin's enigmatic leadership. They dissect common misconceptions, revealing Putin as more of an opportunist than a calculated strategist. The talk delves into the intertwining of political power and the Russian Orthodox Church, societal sentiment towards the West, and the effects of historical narratives on Russian identity. Galeotti emphasizes the need for the West to understand these complexities to engage Russia effectively.