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
6 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 3min
Classic Debate: Parenting Doesn’t Matter (Or Not As Much As You Think)
Joining the discussion are Robert Plomin, a behavioral genetics expert; Susan Pawlby, a developmental psychologist; Ann Pleshette Murphy, a parenting counselor; and Stuart Ritchie, a social genetics lecturer. They delve into the hotly debated topic of parenting's influence versus genetic factors in child development. The conversation highlights key insights from twin studies, the importance of nurturing environments, and the psychological aspects of parenting. Ultimately, they challenge conventional narratives and urge parents to embrace their children's unique traits while focusing on love and support.
6 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 36min
Humans: A Monstrous History
In this engaging conversation, historian Surekha Davies dives into the intriguing concept of monstrosity and its ties to societal fears. She discusses how narratives about monsters reflect our values and history, exploring figures who embody ‘otherness’ and the implications for race and gender. The chat also touches on the potential of alien life and how our understanding of humanity shifts in light of AI advancements. With historical context, Davies highlights the dangers of discrimination and the need for advocacy against harmful narratives.
14 snips
Feb 16, 2025 • 42min
Jonathan Sumption on the Challenges of Democracy
In this thought-provoking discussion, Jonathan Sumption, a former Justice of the Supreme Court and historian, explores the pressing issues confronting modern democracy. He delves into the disconnection between politicians and citizens, the rise of populism, and the necessity of a clear, collective identity. Sumption suggests that democracy is more than just governance; it’s a shared journey. Bring your attention to the importance of nuance in political culture as he offers insights into overcoming the challenges democracy faces today.
18 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 32min
The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook with Martin Wolf (Part 2)
Martin Wolf, Chief Economics Commentator at the Financial Times, shares his insights on the turbulent economic landscape of 2025. He discusses the likelihood of Donald Trump’s return to power and its impact on global trade. Wolf also highlights the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza and their potential diplomatic fallout. He analyzes successful economic models from smaller nations like Denmark and Switzerland, while addressing the complexities of tax strategies and the challenges economists face in communicating with policymakers. Expect a thought-provoking perspective on the future!
22 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 39min
The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook with Martin Wolf (Part 1)
Martin Wolf, Chief Economics Commentator at the Financial Times and a distinguished financial journalist with nearly 40 years of experience, shares his insights on a turbulent economic landscape. He discusses the geopolitical shift with Trump's potential return and its implications for global trade. The conversation highlights the escalating AI race between the US and China. Wolf also addresses the UK's economic challenges, including the tension between public spending and taxation, and its effects on family businesses and farming.
7 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 45min
Can Feminism Be African? With Minna Salami
Minna Salami, a feminist author and social critic known for her provocative works, joins historian Hannah Dawson to delve into the complexities of African feminism. They discuss the unique challenges African women face, emphasizing the need for an inclusive and culturally sensitive definition of feminism. The conversation highlights themes of identity, power, and patriarchy, while advocating for a new lexicon that captures African experiences. Through personal narratives and historical insights, they explore how harmony feminism can coexist with traditional values and modern struggles.
Feb 9, 2025 • 30min
ABC’s James Longman on Family, Trauma, and Reporting from the Frontlines (Part 2)
In this conversation, James Longman, ABC News Chief International Correspondent and author of 'The Inherited Mind,' dives into his personal journey with family trauma and mental illness. He reflects on how his father's struggles with depression and schizophrenia shaped his own mental health. James discusses the science of inherited trauma, the importance of storytelling in healing, and the emotional complexities of loss. Joined by Rob Rinder, they explore the delicate balance between resilience and vulnerability in the face of devastating family legacies.
Feb 7, 2025 • 31min
ABC’s James Longman on Family, Trauma, and Reporting from the Frontlines (Part 1)
James Longman, ABC News Chief International Correspondent, has reported from over sixty countries and authored the memoir 'The Inherited Mind.' He shares his poignant journey through family trauma, exploring the legacy of mental illness that has affected multiple generations, including his father’s struggle with schizophrenia and eventual suicide. Longman discusses the impact of these experiences on his life and career, weaving together personal narratives with the broader implications of genetics and resilience in overcoming inherited challenges.
Feb 5, 2025 • 52min
The Hidden Globe: How Wealth Hacks the World, with Atossa Abrahamian
Atossa Araxia Abrahamian, a journalist known for her incisive writings on the global elite, discusses her new book detailing how wealth shapes a hidden world beyond nation-states. She reveals the unsettling dynamics of wealth and power in places like Geneva, highlighting tax havens and legal inequalities. The conversation also touches on Dubai's tailored legal environment and the unique governance of Svalbard, exploring capitalism's intersection with collaborative governance. Prepare to challenge your understanding of legal systems, identity, and the modern geography of wealth!
7 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 34min
For the Love of Art: The Story of The Secret Painter
Joe Tucker, a television scriptwriter and author of The Secret Painter, shares the poignant story of his uncle, Eric Tucker, whose secret talent for painting went unrecognized during his lifetime. They discuss why Eric chose to create in solitude, reflecting on hidden artistry and the emotional weight of posthumous recognition. Kathryn Hughes joins in to explore the struggles of working-class artists and the barriers they face in the art world, revealing insights into creativity without an audience and the complexities of legacy.
