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
23 snips
Mar 20, 2024 • 41min
How to Fix the Inequality of Wealth, with Liam Byrne
Liam Byrne, Labour MP and author of "The Inequality of Wealth," shares his insights on the urgent issue of wealth disparity. He discusses the alarming concentration of wealth within the top 1% and its societal implications. The conversation delves into how innovation can both challenge and reinforce economic divides, especially for younger generations facing asset ownership struggles. Byrne advocates for a collaborative, multi-generational approach, proposing a five-point plan to bridge the wealth gap and strengthen democracy.
Mar 18, 2024 • 43min
Page-Turner: A History of the Notebook
Roland Allen, a publisher and author of "The Notebook: A History of Thinking on Paper," joins Albert Read, a writer and former Managing Director of Condé Nast. They delve into the transformative history of notebooks, from their origins in 1260 Italy to their role in art and business. The conversation highlights how notable figures like Leonardo da Vinci used notebooks for creativity and reflection. They also explore the concept of Zibaldoni and the chaos of ideas and the cultural significance of the iconic Moleskine notebook in shaping modern creativity.
Mar 17, 2024 • 34min
Reimagining the Life of Mary, Queen of Scots, with Flora Carr
Flora Carr, a debut novelist, enchants listeners with her reimagining of Mary, Queen of Scots in her novel, The Tower. She passionately discusses the often-overlooked narratives of women in history, focusing on Mary's imprisonment at Lochleven Castle. Historian Francesca Peacock adds depth by exploring the complexities of female sexuality and the intricate relationships among women confined with the Queen. Their conversation sheds light on how fiction can illuminate past injustices, advocating for a greater recognition of women's stories in literature and history.
19 snips
Mar 15, 2024 • 1h 18min
The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook with Martin Wolf
In this insightful discussion, Martin Wolf, Chief Economics Commentator at the Financial Times and author of 'The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism,' analyzes the chaotic economic landscape ahead. He highlights the potential global upheaval from a Trump win, the challenges posed by China's demographic shifts, and rising geopolitical tensions. Wolf delves into AI's disruption on job markets, the significance of effective policymaking, and the looming economic threats from high debt levels and political discontent. A must-listen for future-focused thinkers!
21 snips
Mar 13, 2024 • 33min
Can You Put a Price Tag on a Life? with Jenny Kleeman
Jenny Kleeman, a seasoned journalist and author of 'The Price of Life', teams up with Carl Miller, a researcher and author focused on social media and organized crime. They delve into the unsettling reality of how human life is assigned monetary values across industries like insurance and philanthropy. Kleeman exposes the chilling underground market for crimes and the ethics of healthcare resource allocation, challenging our perceptions of life’s worth while questioning the effectiveness of altruism. A thought-provoking discussion on the true price of life.
Mar 11, 2024 • 38min
The Propagandist Who Outwitted Hitler, with Peter Pomerantsev
Peter Pomerantsev, a journalist and expert on disinformation, joins Mark Galeotti, a Russia specialist and honorary professor, to delve into the art of propaganda. They discuss the remarkable wartime strategies of Sefton Delmer, who cleverly blended facts and fabrications to sabotage Nazi narratives. The conversation reaches into modern-day information warfare, revealing parallels between past and present manipulation tactics. They also highlight the intricate intelligence methods used during WWII and the ongoing challenges of media trust today.
Mar 10, 2024 • 42min
Debate: Save Our Private Schools – VAT Should Not Be Charged On Private School Fees, Part Two
Fraser Nelson, Editor of The Spectator, debates the taxation of private school fees, arguing for maintaining their financial privileges. In contrast, Ash Sarkar, a contributing editor at Novara Media, and Melissa Benn, a writer and campaigner, advocate for a comprehensive school system, highlighting the inequalities perpetuated by enhanced funding for private schools. They discuss the societal implications of VAT on private education, the need for equitable funding for public schools, and the emotional toll on families amidst the funding disparities.
Mar 8, 2024 • 55min
Debate: Save Our Private Schools – VAT Should Not Be Charged On Private School Fees, Part One
Fraser Nelson, Editor of The Spectator, argues in favor of tax breaks for private schools, citing parental sacrifices for quality education. Melissa Benn, a campaigner for comprehensive schools, counters that tax benefits deepen social inequality. Helen Pike, Master of Magdalen College School, supports the motion by underscoring the role of private education in shaping elite institutions. Ash Sarkar highlights how VAT on private school fees could promote equity, questioning the fairness of a system that privileges the few over the many.
4 snips
Mar 6, 2024 • 36min
Fluke: How Chance and Chaos Shapes Our Existence, with Brian Klaas
Join Brian Klaas, a political scientist and writer, as he dives into the profound influence of chance on our lives. He discusses 'sliding doors' moments, illustrating how small choices twist our destinies. Klaas highlights personal stories where chaotic events shaped historical outcomes, challenging the myth of individualism. He examines our need for pattern recognition, warning against oversimplifications like conspiracy theories. Finally, he reflects on navigating control in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing resilience amidst uncertainty.
12 snips
Mar 4, 2024 • 45min
Tim Marshall: How Geography Explains Our World, Part Two
Tim Marshall, a best-selling author known for his insights into geopolitics, dives deep into the relationship between geography and global power dynamics. He discusses the new space age and how geography influences satellite technology and military strategies. The conversation also explores Russia's uncertain political future post-Putin and the complexities surrounding Taiwan. Amidst these challenges, Marshall highlights the importance of optimism and education, underscoring the role of technology in shaping our geopolitical landscape.
