Intelligence Squared

Sathnam Sanghera, a writer and author known for his insights on British identity, teams up with Helen Carr, a historian specializing in medieval history. Together, they dive deep into the lasting impact of the British Empire on modern society. They explore personal experiences of colonial legacies in places like Barbados, the complex relationship of language and culture, and the responsibility of the monarchy regarding imperial history. Their conversation confronts difficult truths while advocating for a more inclusive narrative of the past.

Kate Raworth, an acclaimed economist from Oxford University and author of 'Donut Economics', presents a fresh framework for sustainable growth. She discusses how traditional economic education often fails to address ecological and societal needs. Raworth emphasizes the balance between fulfilling human requirements and respecting planetary limits. She advocates for innovative economic models that incorporate altruism and systems thinking, aiming for a transformative approach that fosters equity and environmental sustainability.

Joe Roman, a conservation biologist and marine ecologist, discusses the fascinating interplay of animal biology and ecosystem processes in his book 'Eat, Poop, Die.' He emphasizes how animals, like whales, are key to nutrient cycles that sustain our environment. The conversation touches on the significant ecological shifts seen on a volcanic island in Iceland and the concerning dominance of humans in wildlife biomass. Roman advocates for understanding animal behaviors to protect biodiversity and stresses the need for a balanced, holistic approach to conservation.

Historian Niall Ferguson, author of "Doom: The Politics of Catastrophe," discusses current global crises and their implications. He examines the geopolitical threats from Russia, China, and Iran, questioning whether we're on the brink of a Third World War. Ferguson explores the U.S.-China tensions, likening them to the Cuban Missile Crisis, and highlights the importance of diplomatic engagement. The conversation also touches on the state of free speech in American academia and the parallels with geopolitical conflicts, particularly regarding statehood aspirations.

Niall Ferguson, a distinguished historian and commentator, shares his insights on pressing global issues alongside journalist Ritula Shah. They discuss the geopolitical tensions posed by Russia, China, and Iran, questioning if we are on the brink of a Third World War. Ferguson offers a historical perspective on the evolving conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, exploring their impacts on global stability and economics. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of public perceptions and the future viability of solutions like a two-state resolution.

George the Poet, a socially conscious musician and podcaster, discusses the intersection of black identity and capitalism, highlighting personal and collective experiences. He shares insights from his memoir, exploring themes of 'black excellence' and historical injustices. Joining him is Simeon Brown, an award-winning journalist who analyzes the impact of culture in shaping these narratives. Together, they delve into the importance of political education, grassroots activism, and the necessity of coalition-building within the Black community to foster meaningful change.

In this engaging discussion, Caroline Lucas, a prominent Green Party politician and author of 'Another England,' dives into the concept of Englishness and its misrepresentation by the far-right. Joined by political commentator Grace Blakeley, they explore the rich history of inclusivity and environmental commitment in England. Lucas advocates for a new narrative that celebrates radical figures like the Suffragettes and Diggers while emphasizing the need for democratic reform and urban biodiversity. The conversation challenges listeners to rethink nationalism and their identity.

Caroline Lucas, a two-time leader of the Green Party and MP for Brighton Pavilion, discusses her new book 'Another England,' focusing on reimagining English nationalism. Grace Blakeley, an economics commentator, joins her to delve into how the right has seized Englishness, the impact of Brexit on identity, and the emotional aftermath of the referendum. They advocate for inclusive narratives in England's history, emphasizing grassroots movements, local pride, and the interconnectedness of environmental issues and community empowerment.

Arash Azizi, a historian and senior lecturer known for his works on Iranian politics, joins journalist Mythili Rao to discuss the complexities of Iran's current socio-political landscape. They delve into the protests sparked by Masa Amini's tragic death, shedding light on the fight for women's rights and freedoms. Azizi explores the potential for a cohesive movement among diverse voices of dissent, emphasizing the importance of both digital activism and grassroots efforts in achieving social change. Together, they envision a hopeful future for Iran amidst its persistent struggles.

Harry Cliff, a particle physicist from the University of Cambridge and author of 'Space Oddities', teams up with reporter Alex Wilkins to unravel cosmic mysteries. They discuss why stars seem to be escaping faster than predicted and delve into enigmatic particles buried in Antarctic ice. The conversation highlights the thrills and challenges of scientific discovery, including the emotional roller coaster of working at CERN, the quest to understand beauty quarks, and the groundbreaking significance of findings at the Large Hadron Collider.