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 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.
14 snips
Apr 6, 2024 • 56min
Why We Need to Slow Down to Save the Planet, with Kohei Saito
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.
Apr 5, 2024 • 34min
A Journey Into Our Geopolitical Future, with Elliot Ackerman
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.
14 snips
Apr 3, 2024 • 45min
Are You Free? How Work Relentlessly Eats Up Our Time
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.
Mar 31, 2024 • 35min
Comedy in Dark Times, with Armando Iannucci and Helen Lewis, Part Two
Armando Iannucci, one of Britain’s most cherished comedy writers, celebrated for shows like Veep and The Thick Of It, joins journalist Helen Lewis for an engaging talk. They explore the influence of comedy and satire in navigating today's tumultuous political landscape. Iannucci discusses how humor can help us cope with global crises and holds politicians accountable, while questioning whether it's right to laugh in an unstable world. Their conversation delves into the subversive power of comedy and its vital role in challenging authoritarianism.
Mar 31, 2024 • 42min
Comedy in Dark Times, with Armando Iannucci and Helen Lewis, Part One
Join Armando Iannucci, a maestro of political satire known for hits like The Thick Of It, as he chats with journalist Helen Lewis. They dive into the absurdities of political leadership, focusing on Liz Truss and the blending of politics with entertainment. Iannucci shares hilarious encounters with figures like Tony Blair, exploring how humor shapes political discourse. They also discuss the role of comedy in dark times, questioning whether it can help us process crises like war and instability.
