Intelligence Squared

Keir Starmer, Leader of the Labour Party, shares his vision for Britain's recovery amidst ongoing challenges. Political economist Will Hutton emphasizes the potential for transformative change highlighted in his book. Alastair Campbell, seasoned political strategist, discusses the need for authenticity in leadership and effective communication. They tackle pressing issues like housing affordability and child poverty, advocating for reforms that resonate with younger generations. Together, they explore the intricate relationship between ethics, economics, and the future of British democracy.

Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Labour Party, shares his ambitious vision for remaking Britain amidst a political crisis. Joined by Will Hutton, a political economist, they dissect the failures of past economic policies and the urgent need for public investment. Alastair Campbell adds insights on engaging the electorate, while Sonia Sodha hosts this lively discussion. The speakers advocate for a transformative approach to politics, emphasizing collaboration and community-driven solutions to heal Britain's socio-economic rifts.

Andrew O'Hagan, a Booker Prize-nominated novelist known for his works exploring contemporary London, joins writer Susie Mesure for an insightful discussion. They delve into the influence of Dickens on modern storytelling, the challenges of crafting his latest novel 'Caledonian Road,' and the economic divides of the area. O'Hagan critiques London's transformation into a financial hub while reflecting on personal ties to the city and the complex nature of its narratives. The conversation offers a rich blend of literary exploration and social commentary.

In this engaging discussion, Kate Manne, a writer and philosophy professor at Cornell University, teams up with Sophie McBain, contributing editor at New Statesman. They explore the pressing issue of fat phobia and how it impacts personal identity and societal norms. Manne examines the harmful effects of dieting and weight cycling, advocating for a healthier perspective on body image. The conversation also emphasizes the need for systemic change to foster inclusivity and combat discrimination against larger bodies in society.

Charan Ranganath, a distinguished Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at UC Davis, joins reporter Alex Wilkins to delve into the fascinating world of memory. They discuss the different types of memory, such as episodic and procedural, and their emotional significance. Ranganath highlights how memory aids in predicting future outcomes and shaping our identities. The conversation touches on the brain's mechanics, including the crucial role of the hippocampus and emotional connections in our recollections. Perfect for anyone curious about the science behind remembering!

Annie Jacobsen, an investigative journalist known for her gripping works on military and intelligence, dives into the world of nuclear warfare. She discusses her latest book, exploring potential scenarios of nuclear conflict and the historical ramifications of deterrence. The conversation delves into the psychological impact of nuclear narratives in media, particularly how past representations influence current politics and public perception. Jacobsen emphasizes the human element of deterrence, urging collective action and awareness to prevent catastrophe.

Megan Nolan, an Irish journalist and author known for her compelling novels, explores the darker sides of human experience in her latest work, 'Ordinary Human Failings.' She discusses intergenerational trauma and its impact on characters involved in a murder investigation. The conversation shifts to the responsibilities of young offenders, reflecting on notorious cases like James Bulger's. Nolan also touches on the importance of empathy in true crime narratives and shares insights on navigating friendships and artistic legacies.

Kohei Saito, a Japanese philosopher and author of the bestseller 'Slow Down,' discusses the urgent need to shift from growth-centric economic models to sustainable practices. Joined by writer Adam McCauley, they explore class struggles and environmental disparities post-Fukushima, critique capitalist technology's inadequacies in addressing climate challenges, and promote 'degrowth communism' as a radical response. They highlight community well-being over individual wealth and advocate for grassroots movements to drive transformative societal change toward sustainability.

Elliot Ackerman, a former US Marine and bestselling author, teams up with Carl Miller, co-founder of Demos and author of The Death of the Gods, to explore a dystopian future in their novel 2054. They discuss the implications of a US-China nuclear conflict shaped by AI, the rise of new political dynamics in a polarized world, and the moral dilemmas faced by military figures. Delving into the role of speculative fiction, they highlight how storytelling can both reflect and influence our geopolitical landscape, inspiring optimism amidst despair.

In this engaging conversation, Nick Srnicek, a Lecturer in Digital Economy and co-author of 'After Work,' challenges our perceptions of free time in today's fast-paced society. He critiques how convenience leads to time deprivation and calls for a rethinking of labor, especially in the context of automation and undervalued caregiving roles. The discussion also covers the impact of intensive parenting and explores alternatives to traditional family structures. Ultimately, Srnicek proposes a radical reimagining of work, advocating for systems that enhance individual freedom and fulfillment.