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
21 snips
Oct 5, 2025 • 36min
Anthony Scaramucci on Trump and the Threat to American Democracy (Part One)
Anthony Scaramucci, former White House Communications Director and founder of SkyBridge Capital, shares his candid insights about Trump and the state of American democracy. He candidly discusses how Trump’s appeal resonates with working-class voters and the chaotic showmanship of his rallies. Scaramucci also identifies critical structural issues undermining democracy, such as gerrymandering and Citizens United, and how Trump's unpredictable actions have impacted economic confidence. His sharp wit and unique perspective make this conversation a must-listen!
Oct 4, 2025 • 38min
The Thick of It: 20 Years On, with Armando Iannucci, Peter Capaldi, Chris Addison and Rebecca Front (Part Two)
Armando Iannucci, the genius behind The Thick of It, joins actors Peter Capaldi and Chris Addison to revisit the show's wild ride through political satire. They share hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes, exposing the unconventional filming techniques that brought iconic scenes to life. The panel reflects on Malcolm Tucker's unforgettable persona and the show's real-world political impact. They also debate the challenge of engaging young people in politics today and consider which current figures could stand up to the satirical bite of their beloved series.
Oct 3, 2025 • 37min
The Thick of It: 20 Years On, with Armando Iannucci, Peter Capaldi, Chris Addison and Rebecca Front (Part One)
In a lively discussion, Armando Iannucci, the brilliant mind behind The Thick of It, shares fascinating insights into the show's origins and improvisational techniques. Peter Capaldi, who brought the unforgettable Malcolm Tucker to life, recounts his audition stories and the intense energy required for the role. Chris Addison recalls memorable behind-the-scenes moments and the playful environment that fostered creativity. Together, they explore whether the show's sharp satire could thrive in today's political landscape, peppering their conversation with humor and nostalgia.
11 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 1h 5min
Is AI About to Automate War? With Anthony King
In this discussion, Anthony King, Professor of war studies and director of the Strategy and Security Institute at the University of Exeter, tackles the misconceptions surrounding AI in warfare. He highlights the practical applications of AI in military logistics and targeting, stressing the necessity of human judgment over automated decision-making. King also delves into how current AI systems face limitations and the implications of tech talent concentration in Silicon Valley. He warns against the dangers of automation bias while emphasizing AI's role in reshaping military culture.
24 snips
Sep 28, 2025 • 36min
Sir Tim Berners-Lee on the Internet, AI and the Future of Humanity (Part Two)
Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the brilliant inventor of the World Wide Web, discusses the evolution of the internet and the pressing issues of today. He emphasizes the necessity for tech platforms to take responsibility for harmful content and explains his innovative Solid protocol aimed at giving users control over their data. With humor and insight, he explores the impact of AI on society, the importance of coding education, and the potential for creating a more compassionate web. His vision for the future mixes optimism with calls for serious changes in tech governance.
46 snips
Sep 27, 2025 • 39min
Sir Tim Berners-Lee on the Internet, AI and the Future of Humanity (Part One)
Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, offers a thrilling glimpse into the internet's evolution and its future. He shares insights from his memoir, discussing early web growth versus today's centralized platforms. Berners-Lee reflects on the transformation of the web, the rise of AI, and the challenges of privacy and monopolies. With humor and optimism, he emphasizes the necessity for an open, royalty-free web, encouraging innovation and collaboration. His unique perspective sheds light on the internet's pivotal role in shaping humanity.
Sep 25, 2025 • 26min
Hotels with History | Raffles Hotel, Singapore, with Richard E. Grant and Jules Perowne
Discover the fascinating transformation of Raffles Hotel from a 10-room beach bungalow to a luxurious landmark in Singapore. Learn how the Sarkis brothers, with their Armenian roots, pioneered this iconic destination amidst changing global travel dynamics. Explore Raffles' rich literary history, hosting legends like Kipling and Maugham, and uncover quirky hotel folklore like the tiger incident. Plus, enjoy insights into the legendary Singapore Sling's creation and the hotel's unique check-in experience. Raffles continues to be a symbol of hospitality and culture.
5 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 37min
What Did Twenty Years of Western Intervention in Afghanistan Achieve? With Jon Lee Anderson
Jon Lee Anderson, a veteran foreign correspondent with extensive experience in conflict zones and author of 'To Lose a War', shares his insights on Afghanistan's tumultuous history. He discusses the unraveling of the US mission, revealing personal connections and key failures during two decades of intervention. Anderson highlights stories of resilience from the Afghan people and reflects on the complexities of modern-day Taliban control, youth culture, and the bittersweet legacies of education and betrayal left behind by Western presence.
10 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 54min
Who are the Trailblazing Women Hidden From Our History? With Women's Prize Founder Kate Mosse
Kate Mosse, an award-winning novelist and founder of the Women’s Prize for Fiction, dives into the hidden stories of trailblazing women often overshadowed by history. She shares fascinating anecdotes, like Mary Shelley writing Frankenstein as a teenager and Lily Parr's astonishing 997 goals. Discussing her #WomenInHistory campaign, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing diverse historical figures, including those with complicated legacies, and how rights are always fought for and never given. Get inspired by these remarkable narratives!
22 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 42min
Is the Data on Climate Change More Optimistic than We Thought? With Hannah Ritchie
Hannah Ritchie, a senior researcher at the University of Oxford and deputy editor of Our World in Data, dives into the often-misunderstood narrative of climate change. She challenges the pervasive doom mentality with compelling data that reveals a more hopeful horizon. Discussing her book, Clearing the Air, she debunks myths about electric vehicles and renewable energy costs. Ritchie emphasizes the power of context and encourages actionable solutions, blending personal responsibility with policy innovation for a sustainable future.
