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
Apr 17, 2020 • 1h 5min
Coronavirus and the Economy: Your Questions Answered
Shanker Singham, a global trade expert, Ann Pettifor, a political economist, and Luigi Zingales, a finance professor, dive deep into the economic ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic. They discuss the potential longevity of the recession and the risk of exacerbated inequalities. The trio explores how the crisis might reshape global trade and government policies. From the need for innovative social systems to the importance of collaboration in rebuilding economies, they outline the transformative opportunities amid adversity. Their insights spark a thought-provoking conversation about the future of our economic landscape.
Apr 14, 2020 • 56min
Hype, Smoke and Mirrors, with Gemma Milne and Carl Miller
Gemma Milne, a tech journalist and author of 'Smoke and Mirrors,' joins Carl Miller from Demos to dissect the dark side of hype in our society. They explore how hype can distort public perception, particularly in science and technology journalism. The discussion highlights the double-edged nature of hype, which drives interest yet can mislead and oversimplify complex issues like AI and health. They urge a more transparent and responsible approach to navigating these narratives, emphasizing the need for critical thinking in an age rife with misinformation.
Apr 10, 2020 • 1h 11min
Coronavirus and Global Politics: Your Questions Answered
In a thought-provoking discussion, Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, David Goodhart, a renowned author, and Paul Mason, a political commentator, tackle the pandemic's impact on global politics. They debate whether the rise of 'big government' is here to stay and how populist leaders might emerge stronger amidst the crisis. The guests explore the chaotic effectiveness of border controls, China's growing influence, and the potential for renewed global solidarity. They also reflect on the balance between state power and individual freedoms in a rapidly changing world.
Apr 7, 2020 • 41min
The Unravelling of the Modern Middle East, with Kim Ghattas and Brian Klaas
It all started in 1979. According to Kim Ghattas, the former BBC journalist and author of Black Wave: Saudi Arabia, Iran and the Rivalry That Unravelled the Middle East, this was the pivotal year that kickstarted a forty-year rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia, plunging the Middle East in turmoil. In this episode of the podcast, she examined this fascinating period of history with UCL political scientist Brian Klaas.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
Apr 3, 2020 • 44min
Mind, Matter and Meaning, with Brian Greene and Tom Whipple
Brian Greene, a theoretical physicist and author, teams up with Tom Whipple, the science editor of The Times, to dive into the cosmos' mysteries. They explore quantum mechanics and the emergence of consciousness, questioning how life originated from chaos. Greene discusses the enigma of entropy, linking it to the universe's evolution and our understanding of free will. They also ponder the philosophical essence of existence and urge listeners to appreciate the present, even amidst cosmic uncertainties.
Mar 31, 2020 • 1h 12min
Coronavirus: Your Questions Answered
Join Xand van Tulleken, a science broadcaster, and economist Linda Yueh as they delve into pressing questions surrounding COVID-19. They discuss how to protect ourselves from the virus and explore why certain countries have been more effective in controlling its spread. The conversation also highlights the economic repercussions of the pandemic, emphasizing the urgent need for government interventions. They tackle the challenges of vaccine development and the complexities of maintaining public health and economic stability during such a crisis.
Mar 27, 2020 • 49min
Coronavirus and Morality: Rabbi Jonathan Sacks and Ritula Shah in conversation
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, the former Chief Rabbi of the UK and an authority on faith and morality, joins journalist Ritula Shah for a thought-provoking conversation. They delve into how the coronavirus pandemic challenges and reshapes our moral compass, highlighting the balance between individualism and communal spirit. The discussion spans the evolution of societal values, the role of civil society, and the vital qualities of leadership during crises. Sacks emphasizes a transformative future focused on collective responsibility over outdated norms.
Mar 24, 2020 • 1h 9min
A Century of Conflict, with Rashid Khalidi and Jonathan Freedland
Rashid Khalidi, a Palestinian-American historian and Edward Said Professor at Columbia University, joins Jonathan Freedland for an insightful discussion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They explore the historical roots of the conflict and the interplay between Zionism and colonial narratives. Khalidi emphasizes the importance of personal storytelling in conveying complex histories, while also critiquing contemporary policies and the disconnect between Arab leadership and public opinion. The conversation urges a reconsideration of national identities and advocates for equitable solutions.
Mar 20, 2020 • 55min
Radical Uncertainty, with Mervyn King, John Kay and Jesse Norman
Mervyn King, former Governor of the Bank of England, joins renowned economist John Kay and MP Jesse Norman to tackle the concept of 'radical uncertainty.' They discuss decision-making in unpredictable times, arguing that traditional economic models often fail to capture real-world complexities. The conversation reflects on lessons from the 2008 financial crisis, critiques regulatory failures, and urges a deeper understanding of risk and uncertainty, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches in both public and private sectors.
Mar 17, 2020 • 49min
Kate Murphy and Ros Urwin on the Importance of Listening
In this engaging chat, Kate Murphy, a New York Times contributor and bestselling author of "You're Not Listening," joins Ros Urwin from the Sunday Times to explore the crucial yet overlooked art of listening. They discuss how political polarization hinders empathy, the surprisingly beneficial role of gossip in society, and the neuroscience behind our need for connection. Murphy emphasizes the significance of listening skills in building relationships and advocates for a cultural shift towards genuine dialogue, curiosity, and understanding.
