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
Jul 19, 2024 • 45min
How Inequality in Healthcare Makes Society Sick, with Layal Liverpool and Chris van Tulleken, Part One
In this insightful discussion, science journalist Layal Liverpool and medical doctor Chris van Tulleken tackle the pressing issue of healthcare inequality. Liverpool, author of 'Systemic: How Racism is Making Us Ill,' highlights how systemic racism impacts health outcomes. Meanwhile, van Tulleken, known for 'Ultra-Processed People,' discusses the role of unhealthy food processing in our society. Together, they reveal how historical biases and economic disparities constitute critical public health issues, emphasizing the need for urgent reform.
Jul 17, 2024 • 50min
Surprise Gift: How Inherited Generational Traits Underpin Our Societies, with Harvey Whitehouse
Harvey Whitehouse, a renowned social anthropologist and Director at Oxford's Institute of Cognitive and Evolutionary Anthropology, delves into the impact of inherited generational traits on modern societies. He shares transformative experiences from Papua New Guinea that reshaped his understanding of conformity, tribalism, and ritual. Together with Brian Klaas, they explore how these traits could help or hinder our response to current global challenges like environmental degradation and political instability, emphasizing the importance of collective inheritance for cooperation.
4 snips
Jul 15, 2024 • 44min
Why Parenthood is a Numbers Game, with Emily Oster
Emily Oster, a Brown University economist and bestselling author, discusses the data-driven approach to parenting and how it can reshape family dynamics. She converses with Tim Harford, highlighting the emotional and economic complexities of parenthood. Topics include real pregnancy complications that challenge idealized perceptions, the need for structured healthcare conversations, and the impact of economics on family decision-making. They delve into gender disparities in the workforce and explore teamwork's role in balancing productivity and expertise.
Jul 14, 2024 • 1h 3min
Archive – Can We Fix Capitalism? Yanis Varoufakis vs Gillian Tett
Former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis and Financial Times' Gillian Tett dive into the contentious question of capitalism's future. They examine whether capitalism can be redeemed or needs replacement, considering the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of techno-feudalism. Their debate spans historical influences from socialism to modern tech monopolies, raising critical points about corporate governance and environmental sustainability. The discussion is lively, compelling, and thought-provoking, pushing listeners to rethink the economic landscape.
Jul 12, 2024 • 41min
The Invisible Science of Gas, with Mark Miodownik
Mark Miodownik, a materials scientist and author of 'It’s a Gas', discusses the fascinating world of gases. He reveals their vital roles in our lives, from the invisible elements that sustain us to their historical significance in folklore. The conversation touches on how early music inspired advancements like pneumatic tires and emphasizes the transformative power of wind in exploration. Miodownik also explores the emotional connections we have with scents and the future potential of technology to capture those aromas, linking memories to identity.
Jul 10, 2024 • 41min
Why Turkey is a Country of Endless Curiosity, with Sami Kent
Sami Kent, a journalist and author of "The Endless Country," joins Hannah Lucinda Smith, a Turkey correspondent for The Times, to explore the rich tapestry of Turkish identity. They discuss the emotional complexities of reconnecting with heritage and the vibrant chaos of Turkey's culture. Personal anecdotes shed light on the resilience of the Turkish people, especially following recent hardships. Kent's unique perspective as someone straddling two identities offers listeners profound insights into Turkey’s past and present.
Jul 8, 2024 • 55min
Archive – The New Science of the Body Clock, with Russell Foster
Russell Foster, a leading circadian neuroscience expert from the University of Oxford, reveals how our modern lifestyles are derailing our natural body clocks. He discusses the intricate connections between disrupted sleep, mental health, and chronic diseases. Foster shares practical strategies to optimize sleep quality, emphasizing the power of natural light and mindful habits. He also debunks myths about blue light from screens, highlighting its actual effects on sleep. Dive into the fascinating science of our biological rhythms with insights that can enhance health and well-being.
Jul 6, 2024 • 49min
Exploring the History of Ideas, with David Runciman
David Runciman, a Cambridge professor and host of the Past Present Future podcast, alongside Sophie Scott-Brown, a political theory lecturer, delves into the power of historical ideas in shaping today’s political landscape. They discuss how thinkers like Rousseau and Nietzsche can inspire renewed political imagination. The conversation touches on the tension between liberty and state authority, critiques of utilitarianism, and rethinking political interactions through concepts like 'ordinary vices.' This engaging dialogue underscores the urgency of reinterpreting political philosophy to revitalize democracy.
Jul 5, 2024 • 38min
Growing Up in the Shadow of China, with Edward Wong
Edward Wong, a diplomatic correspondent for The New York Times and author of "At the Edge of Empire," shares his experiences growing up as the son of Chinese immigrants. He delves into the cultural and political landscapes of China, exploring how personal histories reflect national evolution. Wong contrasts leadership styles of Mao Zedong and Xi Jinping, discussing their impacts on the Chinese Communist Party. He also highlights the complex narratives of military control and the Uyghur people's oppression, revealing deep connections between individual stories and broader historical themes.
Jul 3, 2024 • 45min
Archive – The Gift of a Radio, with Justin Webb
Justin Webb, a veteran BBC journalist known for his work on The Today Programme, dives into his memoir, "The Gift of a Radio," reflecting on his tumultuous upbringing. He shares insights into navigating complex family dynamics, particularly his bond with his mother and the impact of mental health stigma in 1970s Britain. Webb discusses the loneliness of being an only child and how radio provided solace. He also examines his boarding school experiences and the evolution of masculinity during his childhood, all infused with dark humor and poignant reflections.
