Intelligence Squared

As 2019 comes to a close, the Intelligence Squared team look back at some of their highlights from the year, both on the Intelligence Squared stage and on the podcast. They feature clips from big in conversation events with the likes of Thomas Friedman and Salman Rushdie to debating whether the West should cut ties with Saudi Arabia, to cultural events exploring letters that changed the world. Join us for this holiday special and let us know what you think by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts. We are particularly keen to know what your highlights of Intelligence Squared in 2019 have been - and what you would be interested in us covering in 2020. Happy holidays from the Intelligence Squared team!Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/intelligencesquared.See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode features an interview from How I Found My Voice, another podcast by Intelligence Squared. Presented by the prominent BBC journalist Samira Ahmed, the podcast explores how some of the world's greatest artists and thinkers became such compelling – and unique – communicators. In this episode Samira speaks to the Cambridge Analytica whistleblower, Chris Wylie, about data micro-targeting, leaking documents that led to the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica data scandal and the part he played in developing technologies that can help shape election results. Subscribe to How I Found My Voice and listen to more episodes here: https://bit.ly/2XpFPyM Season 2 of How I Found My Voice is proudly supported by THE OUT, innovative car rental powered by Jaguar Land Rover.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/intelligencesquared.See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Maeda, a renowned thinker in technology and design, joins Ros Urwin to discuss the evolving language of the digital era. They explore the historical shift from human to machine computing and raise critical concerns about privacy and data ownership. The duo highlights the complexities of merging design with technology, the dual nature of innovations, and the pressing need for diversity in AI. Their engaging conversation touches on the responsibilities of tech leaders in shaping society's future.

Historian Andrew Roberts, known for his insights on wartime leadership, joins Jeremy Paxman to dissect what makes a great leader during conflict. They explore the moral complexities faced by figures like Churchill and Stalin, revealing that strong leadership can wear both good and evil masks. The conversation covers gender dynamics in military leadership and the emotional stakes of wartime decisions, such as those during the Falklands War. Roberts also reflects on the dangers of charismatic leaders clinging to power, using Thatcher and Churchill as cautionary tales.

Ken Clarke, a veteran Conservative MP known for his pragmatic approach, shares candid reflections on his 49 years in politics. He delves into the complexities of Brexit, advocating for a pragmatic stance while critiquing current strategies. The conversation touches on the challenges of political identity and the distrust in politicians spurred by social media. Clarke also discusses voter dynamics and the implications of the first-past-the-post system on governance, all while pondering his legacy with a mix of humor and insight.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Yanis Varoufakis, the former Greek finance minister, and Brian Eno, music producer and activist, delve into the urgent need for radical change in our socio-economic systems. They explore how traditional economic models fail to address inequalities, stressing collective creativity over individualism. The conversation touches on AI's impact on jobs, climate change, and the push for grassroots activism to reclaim democracy. They also highlight movements like BDS and Extinction Rebellion as vital catalysts for societal transformation.

Discover the remarkable journey of Richard Branson, a serial entrepreneur who transformed the Virgin brand across multiple industries. Learn how his adventurous upbringing and early struggles with dyslexia fueled his passion for creating groundbreaking businesses like Virgin Records and Virgin Airways. Explore the exciting golden era of music when he launched iconic talents and how he navigated controversies in healthcare and railways. Delve into his work with 'The Elders,' advocating for global peace and reform, as he shares wisdom from his unique experiences.

P.J. O’Rourke, an American political satirist, and Lionel Shriver, a bestselling author, join forces for a lively discussion on the intricacies of the U.S. political landscape. They tackle the tumultuous 2020 presidential race, diving into impeachment and political polarization. The duo critiques the impact of social media on political discourse and voter sentiment. They also explore Pete Buttigieg's unique candidacy challenges, the implications of wealth taxation, and the future of the Republican Party post-Trump, all laced with O’Rourke’s trademark wit.

Naomi Klein, a renowned journalist and social activist, discusses her politically engaged upbringing and the role of protest movements in shaping her worldview. She emphasizes the urgent need for a Green New Deal, arguing for systemic change in climate action over individual efforts. Klein also critiques corporate influences on culture and advocates for the inclusion of youth activism in the climate crisis dialogue, especially through movements like Extinction Rebellion. Her insights reflect a passionate call for justice-centered approaches to environmental challenges.

The discussion features insights from Dean Baquet on the pressures the media faces under the Trump administration. Simon Schama reflects on the rise of populism in the current political climate. Topics include the struggle for journalistic integrity in a divided era, the impact of digital media, and the challenges of independent journalism. The hosts emphasize the responsibility of the press to combat misinformation while fostering an informed public. Hope and resilience in journalism take center stage as they navigate unprecedented times.