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
Sep 10, 2024 • 37min
Black Arsenal: Club, Culture and Identity, Part One
Join Clive Chijioke Nwonka, co-editor of "Black Arsenal: Club, Culture and Identity," Paul Davis, a former Arsenal FC footballer, and Baroness Lola Young, a multi-talented academic and activist, as they delve into Arsenal's rich multicultural heritage. The trio discusses the profound links between the club and the Black community, exploring personal narratives, identity, and the significance of representation in football. They highlight how iconic Black players have influenced both the club's culture and its fans, making Arsenal a symbol of hope and identity.
11 snips
Sep 9, 2024 • 53min
Lessons from History on How to Tackle Today's Greatest Challenges, with Roman Krznaric
Roman Krznaric, a leading social philosopher and author, delves into lessons from the past to address today's pressing issues like climate change and inequality. He emphasizes the transformative power of grassroots movements and the necessity of historical awareness for sustainable living. Joined by Adam McCauley, they explore the revival of democratic dialogue through historical coffeehouses and innovative governance solutions. The conversation highlights the importance of collective identity and action in creating a responsible, engaged society.
13 snips
Sep 7, 2024 • 44min
The Benefits of Embracing Our Limitations, with Oliver Burkeman
Join Oliver Burkeman, a brilliant writer known for his Guardian column and insightful books, as he explores the transformative power of embracing our limitations. Alongside journalist Jehan Casinader, they discuss how modern pressures from technology magnify feelings of inadequacy. Burkeman introduces 'imperfectionism', where viewing flaws as strengths leads to deeper fulfillment. They also tackle the challenges of meaningful work amidst life’s chaos, encouraging a shift in perspective to reclaim agency over our choices.
Sep 5, 2024 • 37min
The Dictators Who Want to Run the World, with Anne Applebaum, Part Two
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and expert on autocracy, dives into the evolution of autocratic regimes in the 21st century. She discusses how modern autocracies are like global networks, operating transactionally rather than ideologically. Applebaum highlights the sophistication of cross-border propaganda and the necessity for democracies to adapt and engage actively. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these regimes through a new lens, encouraging civic participation as a defense against democratic erosion.
7 snips
Sep 3, 2024 • 39min
The Dictators Who Want to Run the World, with Anne Applebaum, Part One
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author known for her insights on autocracy, dives into the sophisticated nature of 21st-century authoritarian regimes. She reveals how modern autocrats have formed global networks to undermine democracies, showcasing the transactional nature of their alliances. Applebaum discusses the historical context of gas diplomacy and how countries like Russia and Venezuela leverage energy politics to gain influence. Her conversation emphasizes the urgent need to understand and counteract this evolving threat to democracy.
Sep 2, 2024 • 49min
A Deep Dive into the Sounds of the Seas, with Amorina Kingdon
Amorina Kingdon, an award-winning science writer and author of *Sing Like Fish*, dives into the fascinating world of underwater sounds. She reveals how marine creatures communicate and navigate through sound, sharing stories like the plainfin midshipman fish’s unique mating calls. Kingdon also discusses the significant impact of human noise pollution on these delicate ecosystems, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts. The conversation opens a sonic window into the hidden life of the ocean, showcasing its beauty and vulnerability.
Aug 31, 2024 • 50min
Jordan Stephens on Love, Chaos and Becoming a Man, Part Two
Join Jordan Stephens, Rizzle Kicks musician and author, and Munya Chawawa, comedian and satirist, as they dive into the complexities of love and masculinity. Jordan reveals his struggles with self-harm, the chaos of fame, and how ADHD shapes his creative journey. They passionately discuss the societal pressures on men, advocating for vulnerability and emotional growth. Their candid conversation emphasizes the importance of redefining masculinity and fostering deeper connections in relationships, all while navigating the tricky waters of heartbreak and healing.
Aug 29, 2024 • 43min
Jordan Stephens on Love, Chaos and Becoming a Man, Part One
Jordan Stephens, one half of the hip hop duo Rizzle Kicks and author of the memoir 'Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak & Dogs', dives into his tumultuous journey of fame, addiction, and self-discovery. He reflects on the challenges of masculinity and societal pressures while sharing humorous insights on healing. The conversation touches on creativity's impact on identity, the complexity of relationships, and the evolving discussions around masculinity that foster healthier emotional expressions in young men.
Aug 28, 2024 • 46min
A Fresh Perspective on Life on the Blue Planet, with Ferris Jabr
Ferris Jabr, a Contributing Writer for The New York Times Magazine and author of 'Becoming Earth: How Our Planet Came to Life,' presents a compelling perspective on Earth's ecosystems. He discusses the Gaia hypothesis, viewing the planet as a self-regulating entity. The conversation dives into the vital roles of microbes and plankton in our atmosphere, the urgency of addressing climate change, and innovative restoration efforts like Pleistocene Park. Jabr emphasizes the interconnectedness of life and the need for diverse viewpoints on environmental challenges.
Aug 25, 2024 • 43min
Why the Horror Genre is Such a Scream, with Anna Bogutskaya
Join Anna Bogutskaya, an award-nominated author and horror aficionado, alongside BBC Radio 1's film critic Ali Plumb, as they dive into the captivating world of horror. They discuss the unique emotional resonance of horror films and how the genre has evolved into a legitimate storytelling medium. The duo also explores the significant influence of women in horror, the intersection of political themes with societal reflection, and the fresh innovations that keep the genre alive and thrilling.
