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
Mar 9, 2025 • 1h 4min
Classic Debate: There is Nothing Wrong With Rearing and Killing Animals for Human Consumption
A.A. Gill, renowned restaurant critic for The Sunday Times, passionately defends meat consumption, sharing his personal anecdotes and cultural insights. In contrast, George Monbiot, a Guardian columnist and environmental activist, highlights the devastating environmental impacts of livestock farming and argues for a shift toward plant-based diets. The debate dives into ethical dilemmas, animal welfare, and the historical significance of meat in society, emphasizing the need for sustainable food practices while engaging the audience in a lively exchange of perspectives.
Mar 7, 2025 • 33min
Douglas Stuart on Shuggie Bain, Storytelling, and the Human Condition (Part Two)
Douglas Stuart, Booker Prize-winning author of Shuggie Bain and Young Mungo, shares insights on transforming personal stories into screen adaptations while preserving character integrity. He discusses the influence of visual storytelling on writing, his creative struggles, and the evolution of his narrative style. Stuart emphasizes the need for authentic representation of poverty and queer love in literature. His experiences in navigating societal expectations highlight the resilience and complexities faced by debut novelists, making for a poignant conversation.
12 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 37min
Douglas Stuart on Shuggie Bain, Storytelling, and the Human Condition (Part One)
Douglas Stuart, a Booker Prize-winning author, shares his journey from Glasgow to literary acclaim with heartwarming honesty. He reflects on the emotional depth of 'Shuggie Bain' and the complexities of addiction and love. The conversation dives into the struggles of marginalized identities and the challenges of storytelling from a distance. Stuart passionately discusses Glasgow's vibrant yet challenging history, emphasizing representation and resilience in literature while addressing the financial hurdles faced by Scottish writers.
Mar 3, 2025 • 26min
Sam McAlister on Scandals, Scoops, and the Prince Andrew Interview (Part Two)
Sam McAlister, a BAFTA and Emmy-nominated producer, shares her experience behind the shocking Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew, where he famously claimed an alibi involving Pizza Express. She delves into the complexities of securing high-profile interviews, including a failed attempt at engaging President Trump. McAlister also discusses the evolving media landscape, the importance of integrity in journalism, and her personal journey transitioning from a barrister to a media powerhouse. Don't miss her insights on celebrity, accountability, and the art of negotiation.
Mar 2, 2025 • 25min
Sam McAlister on Scandals, Scoops, and the Prince Andrew Interview (Part One)
Sam McAlister, a BAFTA and Emmy-nominated interviews producer renowned for the Prince Andrew interview, shares behind-the-scenes insights into this pivotal moment in media history. She discusses the intense challenges of interviewing powerful figures and the ethical dilemmas faced in today’s journalism. McAlister also reflects on the far-reaching implications of the royal interview on public perception and accountability, as well as the creative process behind adapting her book into a Netflix film featuring talented actors.
13 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 36min
Justin Webb on The Trump World Order (Part 2)
Justin Webb, a veteran BBC journalist and former North America editor, offers a compelling analysis of the new dynamics under Trump's administration. He explores how Trump's approach—favoring personal relationships over established international systems—shifts global power structures. Webb discusses the implications for Europe and the UK, focusing on policy changes regarding Ukraine, the Middle East, and China. He also addresses the ideological rifts between American and European values, and the challenges facing the GOP and American democracy.
18 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 36min
Justin Webb on The Trump World Order (Part 1)
Justin Webb, a veteran BBC journalist and author, delves into the ramifications of Donald Trump's return to power. He examines how Trump’s personal approach is reshaping global politics, focusing on issues like trade and international relations. Webb contrasts Trump’s unconventional style with that of previous presidents, highlighting the complexities within his administration. He also discusses Trump’s strategic dealings with leaders like Putin and Zelensky, and the implications for NATO and the Middle East, emphasizing the shifting dynamics in international diplomacy.
Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 3min
Classic Debate: Rembrandt vs Vermeer - The Titans of Dutch Painting
Historian Simon Schama passionately defends Rembrandt, portraying him as the embodiment of humanity's raw emotional tapestry. He argues that Rembrandt's work transcends formal beauty, offering a visceral exploration of life. In contrast, author Tracey Chevalier champions Vermeer, emphasizing his magical, serene paintings that invite viewer interpretation. Chevalier reveals her lifelong obsession with Vermeer’s 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' highlighting the intriguing mystery of his subjects. Together, they unravel the complexities and legacies of these two Dutch titans.
31 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 43min
Chokepoints: Economic Warfare in the Modern World, with Edward Fishman
Edward Fishman, a leading authority on economic statecraft and a professor at Columbia University, shares insights from his book on economic warfare. He discusses how the U.S. uses economic tools like sanctions to assert its power in global crises. Along with Chris Miller, a Tufts University historian, they examine the complexities of sanctions against countries like Iran and Russia. They also delve into the evolving nature of economic strategies in modern diplomacy and the role of technology in navigating these turbulent times.
37 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 44min
Nicholas Carr on How Technologies of Communication Tear Us Apart
Nicholas Carr, an American journalist and best-selling author known for "The Shallows," dives into the dark side of our connected world. He discusses how technologies like Facebook and X, initially seen as aids for communication, have actually intensified tribalism and misinformation. Carr highlights the paradox where increased interaction leads to greater isolation, emphasizing the harmful effects on cognitive ability. He also introduces 'dissimilarity cascades,' revealing how online engagement can deepen divides rather than foster understanding.
