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
Oct 26, 2024 • 37min
Grace Dent on the Joys of Comfort Eating, Part One
Grace Dent, one of the UK's beloved food writers and author of 'Comfort Eating', joins comedian Deborah Frances-White for a heartfelt chat. They dive into the nostalgia behind comfort foods and how they reflect cherished memories and personal identity. Grace shares touching stories about how food offers solace during times of grief, alongside reflections on the cultural significance of butter. They humorously tackle dieting dilemmas and societal pressures, ultimately celebrating the joyful embrace of indulgent eating as a vital part of life.
Oct 24, 2024 • 47min
An Evening with Gary Younge, Part Two
Gary Younge, a celebrated writer and broadcaster known for his insights into modern Black history, shares his unique perspectives alongside journalist Aniefiok Ekpoudom. They delve into pivotal moments from both the UK and US, examining the shifts in racial dynamics amidst political change. Younge reflects on grassroots movements' power, particularly the impact of Black Lives Matter. The conversation also touches on the complexities of race and gender in politics, alongside notable Caribbean leadership challenging global norms.
Oct 23, 2024 • 39min
An Evening with Gary Younge, Part One
Gary Younge, an award-winning journalist and professor of sociology, shares insights from his experiences covering significant events in Black history, like Mandela's election campaign and the rise of Black Lives Matter. In conversation with Aniefiok Ekpoudom, they explore the intricate relationship between journalism and activism, discussing how narratives shape social justice. Younge also reflects on the non-linear journey of racial progress in Britain, addressing both advancements and ongoing systemic challenges.
4 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 1h 5min
Archive: Napoleon the Great? With Andrew Roberts, Adam Zamoyski and Jeremy Paxman
In a spirited debate, historians Andrew Roberts and Adam Zamoyski discuss how to remember Napoleon Bonaparte. Andrew Roberts, a distinguished historian known for his insights on Napoleonic history, and Adam Zamoyski, a best-selling author on French history, challenge each other's perspectives. They explore Napoleon's military genius versus his failures, his legislative achievements like the Code Napoleon, and his ambitions for European unity. The conversation also delves into his complex human legacy, provoking thoughts on how history shapes our understanding of great leaders.
Oct 20, 2024 • 47min
The Story of the Solar System, with Maggie Aderin-Pocock
Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, an award-winning space scientist and broadcaster, joins Güneş Taylor, a scientist at Edinburgh University, to discuss her new book, which beautifully blends art and science. They delve into the fascinating evolution of Pluto's classification and what that means for our understanding of celestial bodies. The conversation also explores humanity's cultural ties to the cosmos, the complexities of dark energy, and the intriguing effects of microgravity on living organisms, all while inspiring a new generation of space enthusiasts.
Oct 17, 2024 • 36min
Dan Jones on England’s Greatest Warrior King, with Kate Williams, Part Two
Dan Jones, a historian renowned for his insights into medieval English monarchy, teams up with Kate Williams, a historian and novelist specializing in British history. They discuss the complex legacy of Henry V, exploring his military triumphs, including the pivotal Battle of Agincourt, and the societal challenges he faced. The conversation highlights how Henry's leadership both stabilized England and sowed seeds of future conflict. They delve into the strategic decisions that shaped his reign and the intertwining of his personal and political ambitions.
Oct 16, 2024 • 37min
Dan Jones on England’s Greatest Warrior King, with Kate Williams, Part One
Dan Jones, a best-selling author known for his captivating historical narratives, joins Kate Williams to discuss the complex legacy of Henry V. They examine the duality of Henry as both a brutal warrior and an insightful diplomat. The duo delves into Shakespeare’s influence on public perception and the implications of Henry's tactical decisions during his short reign. They also reflect on the turbulent backdrop of his rise to power, including the dramatic events leading to the Battle of Shrewsbury, showcasing the harsh realities of medieval warfare.
18 snips
Oct 14, 2024 • 34min
The History of Information, with Chris Haughton
Chris Haughton, a renowned designer and children's book author, joins technology researcher Carl Miller to delve into the evolution of information. They explore how visual communication has transformed throughout history, highlighting its role in a digital age. Haughton shares insights from his book, discussing the societal impacts of information technology from the printing press to modern communication. The conversation also touches on the historical roots of propaganda and its influence on consumer culture, revealing the complexities of documenting information's evolution.
Oct 13, 2024 • 40min
Archive: Jamaica's Culinary Journey, with Melissa Thompson and Riaz Phillips
Melissa Thompson, a BBC Good Food columnist and author of "Motherland: A Jamaican Cookbook," and Riaz Phillips, author of "West Winds: Recipes, History and Tales from Jamaica," explore the rich tapestry of Jamaican cuisine. They discuss iconic dishes like jerk chicken and ackee and saltfish, highlighting their diverse cultural influences. Personal stories reveal how culinary traditions shape identity within the Jamaican diaspora. The conversation also tackles authenticity, cultural appropriation, and the evolution of Jamaican food, particularly in London.
4 snips
Oct 11, 2024 • 1h 28min
Think Again: Is Free Speech Under Threat? with Suzanne Nossel and Charlotte Lydia Riley
Suzanne Nossel, CEO of PEN America and author of "Dare to Speak," joins historian Charlotte Lydia Riley to explore the complexities of free speech today. They debate the perceived crisis surrounding cancel culture and its impact on public discourse. The conversation highlights the tension between holding elites accountable and the fear of silencing marginalized voices. With insights into book bans, societal repercussions of criticism, and the influence of social media, they delve into the challenges of maintaining open dialogue in a polarized world.
