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
Apr 23, 2024 • 47min
Arash Azizi on Iran's Turbulent Past and its Uncertain Future
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.
Apr 21, 2024 • 44min
Getting Weird with Physics, with Harry Cliff
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.
7 snips
Apr 20, 2024 • 33min
Istanbul: Crossroads of the World, with Alexander Christie-Miller
Alexander Christie-Miller, a former Istanbul correspondent and author of "To the City: Life and Death Along the Ancient Walls of Istanbul," joins Hannah Lucinda Smith, Turkey correspondent for The Times. They dive into the significance of Istanbul's historic walls and Hagia Sophia amid political changes. The duo also explores Erdogan's complex political landscape, contrasting views from supporters and opposition. Personal stories of disillusionment reveal the emotional connections voters have with power dynamics, highlighting Turkey's intricate identity.
Apr 18, 2024 • 45min
Keir Starmer, Will Hutton, Alastair Campbell and Sonia Sodha on How to Remake Britain, Part Two
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.
Apr 16, 2024 • 47min
Keir Starmer, Will Hutton, Alastair Campbell and Sonia Sodha on How to Remake Britain, Part One
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.
Apr 14, 2024 • 51min
The Great London Novel, with Andrew O'Hagan
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.
6 snips
Apr 14, 2024 • 47min
The F Word: Re-evaluating Society's Approach to Body Image, with Kate Manne
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.
11 snips
Apr 12, 2024 • 30min
Unlocking the Power of Memory, with Charan Ranganath
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!
Apr 10, 2024 • 42min
Going Nuclear: Could a Catastrophic Conflict Take Place? with Annie Jacobsen
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.
Apr 8, 2024 • 39min
Finding the Story within Ordinary Human Failings, with Megan Nolan
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.
