Intelligence Squared

Mary Beard, Professor of Classics at Cambridge, dives deep into Roman leadership while contrasting it with today’s political landscapes alongside Rory Stewart, a former politician and podcaster. They highlight the weight of power through historical and modern examples. Tomiwa Owolade challenges American-centric views on race in the UK, emphasizing the unique experiences of Black communities. Tania Branigan shares insights on China's Cultural Revolution, exploring its lasting societal impacts and the importance of collective memory.

Pen Vogler, an acclaimed food historian known for her insightful works on British culinary history, joins Alice Thomson, a columnist from The Times. They explore how Britain's food culture evolved alongside societal changes, from communal meals in the Anglo-Saxon period to today’s market-driven practices. Vogler highlights staples like bread and beer as reflections of class and food scarcity. They discuss the historical disconnect in food production, the influence of industrialization on health, and the British love affair with tea.

Naomi Klein, an influential author and activist, dives into her book Doppelganger, unraveling the complexities of conspiracy theories and today’s polarized political landscape. Mehdi Hasan, a celebrated journalist, shares insights from How to Win Every Argument, discussing the nuances of effective persuasion and the art of debate. Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of DeepMind, provides a glimpse into the future with his book The Coming Wave, exploring AI's transformative potential, ethical challenges, and the realities of a tech-driven world.

Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and author, teams up with Andrew McAfee, a principal research scientist at MIT, to discuss unlocking hidden potential. They explore how social influence shapes behavior more than individual traits and emphasize the importance of character skills in entrepreneurial success. The conversation delves into embracing a maverick mindset for innovation, fostering openness in organizations, and the role of ethics training in moral development. Their insights challenge conventional thinking, encouraging listeners to redefine their approach to personal and professional growth.

Arun Kundnani, a writer and NYU professor, dives deep into the relationship between capitalism and racism. He critiques current anti-racism strategies, urging a shift towards addressing systemic economic inequalities. Kundnani explores the historical roots of anti-racism, highlighting the limitations of liberal approaches. He discusses the impact of neoliberalism on immigration policies and public perception of race. Alongside journalist Ruchira Sharma, they advocate for a grassroots movement that tackles the structural roots of racism beyond mere policy changes.

William Sieghart, a poetry publisher and founder of the Forward Prizes for Poetry, shares insights on the therapeutic power of poetry and its role in healing, especially in the post-pandemic world. Natasha McElhone and Sheila Atim, renowned actresses, discuss their personal connections with poetry and its impact on mental health during tough times. They explore themes of resilience, everyday kindness, and the importance of human connections through poetry, illustrating how words can provide solace and inspiration in our lives.

Louis Theroux, a much-loved broadcaster and documentary maker, shares insights with Harriet Johnston on his unique approach to filmmaking. He delves into the significance of authenticity in conversations and contrasts British and American communication styles. The discussion also touches on the complexities of talking about money across cultures, revealing Americans' greater openness around finances. Lastly, Theroux emphasizes the art of listening, highlighting how curiosity about others can deepen our connections and enrich our understanding of the world.

In this heartfelt discussion, the late Benjamin Zephaniah, a celebrated poet and activist, reflects on his transformative journey from a challenging upbringing in Birmingham to becoming a powerful voice for social justice. He shares vivid anecdotes about his large family and the chaos of his childhood, while exploring themes of racial identity and resilience. Zephaniah passionately discusses his defiance against societal violence, his embrace of veganism as a personal expression, and the role of poetry in fostering independent thought among the youth.

Michael Pollan, an acclaimed food writer and author, discusses the transformative power of psychedelics, linking them to consciousness and mental health. He shares insights from his book about how substances like psilocybin aid terminally ill patients in confronting death. Pollan also reflects on personal journeys with psychedelics, exploring their ability to shift perspectives and dissolve ego. The conversation touches on the intersection of indigenous wisdom and biodiversity, emphasizing a need for environmental stewardship.

Michele Lamont, a Harvard Professor known for her insights on cultural sociology, joins Sophie McBain, an acclaimed editor and writer, to discuss the value of recognition in a divided world. They explore how societal respect enhances individual well-being, emphasizing that worth extends beyond wealth. The conversation also examines evolving narratives on racism and the American dream, highlighting a generational shift towards authenticity. They advocate for a more inclusive society grounded in empathy and understanding, challenging conventional notions of success.