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
May 31, 2019 • 1h 2min
Identity Politics Is Tearing Society Apart
Lionel Shriver, a novelist and journalist known for her provocative insights, argues that identity politics is fracturing society. In contrast, Dawn Foster, a columnist for the Guardian, and David Lammy, a Labour MP, defend identity politics as a necessary tool for social justice. Trevor Phillips, former chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, joins Shriver in expressing concern over societal divisions. The panel delves into whether these movements promote equity or deepen societal divides, sparking a dynamic discussion full of personal anecdotes and reflective arguments.
May 24, 2019 • 1h 3min
The Victorians Who Made Britain: Jacob Rees-Mogg vs Tristram Hunt
Jacob Rees-Mogg, Conservative MP and author of "The Victorians: Twelve Titans Who Forged Britain," argues for the Victorian era’s moral certainty and reformative spirit as a guide for modern Britain. He praises notable figures like Palmerston and Victoria for their contributions to democracy and social changes. In contrast, Tristram Hunt, a historian and director of the V&A, questions this idealized view, emphasizing the complexities of the era including imperialism and gender representation. Their debate reflects on historical legacies and their relevance in today's post-Brexit landscape.
May 17, 2019 • 41min
Jennifer Eberhardt and Razia Iqbal on the Psychology of Racial Bias
In a compelling discussion, Jennifer Eberhardt, a Stanford Social Psychologist and author of Biased, joins BBC's Razia Iqbal to unpack the psychology of racial bias. They explore how biases are unconsciously formed, starting from childhood, and the critical need for open conversations about these issues. Eberhardt highlights the transformative power of education in prisons, the legacy of leaders like Barack Obama, and the influence of figures like W.E. Du Bois on understanding racial responsibility. This insightful dialogue sheds light on confronting systemic prejudices.
May 10, 2019 • 51min
Eric Kaufmann and Razia Iqbal on the End of White Majorities
Eric Kaufmann, a Birkbeck politics professor and author of "Whiteshift," teams up with BBC's Razia Iqbal to discuss seismic demographic shifts in Western societies. They explore how white majorities are approaching minority status and the implications for politics. The conversation dives into identity politics, arguing it drives populism more than economic factors. Kaufmann emphasizes the need for nuanced discussions on racial identity, while advocating for humane immigration policies that address societal concerns, fostering inclusivity over division.
Apr 26, 2019 • 59min
Adam Higginbotham and Evan Ratliff on the Untold Story of Chernobyl
The 33rd anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster sparks an in-depth exploration of its political and social ramifications. Personal narratives from those who lived through it reveal the emotional toll and chaos of the event. The discussion dives into the stark contrast between the perceived safety of nuclear power and the catastrophic reality faced during the disaster. Insights into the inadequacy of governmental responses highlight how Chernobyl contributed to the Soviet Union's collapse, emphasizing the lessons learned about technological hubris.
19 snips
Apr 19, 2019 • 57min
Julia Shaw and Rosamund Urwin on the Science Behind Humanity's Dark Side
Join Julia Shaw, a German-Canadian psychologist and author of "Making Evil", alongside journalist Rosamund Urwin from The Sunday Times, as they delve into humanity's dark side. They challenge societal narratives around masculinity and violence, question the nature of evil, and discuss the unsettling allure of aggression. The conversation highlights how AI mirrors societal biases and emphasizes the importance of compassion in understanding misjudged behaviors like creepiness and aggression. A thought-provoking exploration of morality and empathy awaits!
8 snips
Apr 12, 2019 • 1h 3min
Thomas Friedman On The World In 2019
Thomas Friedman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and New York Times columnist, discusses pressing global issues. He delves into how the West should tactically respond to a rising China and the need for an equitable global economy. The conversation navigates the transformative impact of technology on society and highlights contemporary challenges such as youth unemployment in the Middle East and the importance of cooperation. Friedman also reflects on potential geopolitical shifts under a second Trump term, urging a return to visionary leadership in a complex world.
Apr 5, 2019 • 48min
Viral Sensation Rutger Bregman On How Utopian Ideas Can Become Reality
Rutger Bregman, historian and author known for his viral Davos speech advocating higher taxes for the rich, teams up with Helen Lewis to tackle ambitious topics. They discuss the potential of Universal Basic Income and the benefits of a four-day workweek. Bregman critiques GDP as a measure of success, highlighting the overlooked value of caregiving roles. The conversation also delves into the societal pressures of consumerism and emphasizes the importance of meaningful leisure, community, and the feasibility of utopian ideas like open borders.
Mar 29, 2019 • 41min
How I Found My Voice: Rose McGowan
Rose McGowan, renowned actress and a key advocate for the Me Too movement, shares her powerful journey from a tumultuous childhood in a religious cult in Italy to Hollywood stardom. She discusses the challenges of facing sexual abuse in the entertainment industry and emphasizes the importance of finding one's voice. McGowan reflects on the influence of films like 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit,' navigates the pressures of conforming in Hollywood, and highlights her advocacy for silenced women, making her story both compelling and inspiring.
Mar 22, 2019 • 1h 5min
Nationalism is a Delusion: Our Futures Depend on Ever Closer Union
Radek Sikorski, a seasoned Polish politician and journalist, and Flavia Kleiner, a Swiss activist advocating for direct democracy, engage in a spirited debate on nationalism and European unity. They argue that nationalism is a delusion, emphasizing the need for closer EU integration to tackle contemporary challenges. On the opposing side, journalist Douglas Murray and political scientist Aleksandra Rybińska stress the risks of nationalism, citing its historical impact and the complexities of fostering a unified European identity. This clash of views highlights the intricate balance between nationhood and collective progress.
