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
Nov 5, 2023 • 37min
Return or Retain? The Parthenon Marbles Debate, with Ed Vaizey and Noel Malcolm
In this thought-provoking discussion, Ed Vaizey, former UK Government Culture and Digital Minister, and Noel Malcolm, Senior Research Fellow at All Souls College, dive into the controversial debate over the Parthenon Marbles. They explore the historical context of their removal by Lord Elgin and critique the British Museum's stewardship. Significant points include the evolving perspectives on ownership, cultural significance, and potential collaborative solutions for the marbles' future. Both guests advocate for a nuanced approach to restitution that respects history and cultural integrity.
Nov 3, 2023 • 32min
China’s Quest for Global Influence
Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian, an Axios reporter and author of "Beijing Rules," dives into the complexities of China's quest for global influence and its economic strategies that leverage coercion. She outlines how Western companies navigate ethical dilemmas, such as forced labor in Xinjiang, and the impact of censorship on media and markets. The conversation also critiques Western trade policies in relation to authoritarian practices and discusses the concept of an 'economic NATO' to combat Chinese economic coercion. Insightful, timely, and thought-provoking!
Nov 2, 2023 • 11min
Power Trip, Part Four: AI and Governance
Can AI truly be controlled? Discover the delicate dance between regulation and innovation as experts discuss strategies in the US, UK, and EU. Governments are waking up to the implications of AI, prompted by urgent warnings from tech leaders. Meanwhile, China's ambitious AI goals raise questions about the clash between political oversight and technological progress. How do different approaches to governance impact the future of AI? Tune in for insights on navigating this complex landscape!
Nov 1, 2023 • 1h 14min
Gillian Tett on the Year Ahead
Gillian Tett, an acclaimed Financial Times columnist and expert in economic anthropology, shares her insights on today's pressing economic challenges. She discusses the potential impact of a second Trump presidency and the ongoing battle against inflation in the UK. Tett also delves into the transformative effects of AI on our lives and how an anthropological perspective can illuminate cultural shifts influencing global investments. With a unique blend of economics and anthropology, she offers a thought-provoking view on the complexities reshaping our world.
Oct 31, 2023 • 14min
What exactly is Black British culture today? | IQ2 Opinion
Exploring the roots of Black British culture, the discussion reveals its evolving significance today. It highlights the influence of the Windrush generation and contemporary Black British artists reshaping identities in fashion, theatre, art, and music. As Black Africans gain visibility in the UK, their contributions enrich the cultural landscape while preserving heritage. Emerging voices, like that of Edward Enninful, mark a push for deeper representation, celebrated through vibrant exhibitions and impactful performances that showcase the power of creativity.
Oct 30, 2023 • 32min
Michael Lewis on The Rise and Fall of Sam Bankman-Fried, Part Two
In a captivating discussion, Michael Lewis, acclaimed author of "Moneyball" and "The Big Short," delves into the chaotic world of Sam Bankman-Fried during FTX’s peak. He recounts bizarre interactions, like a Zoom meeting with a fashion icon, revealing Bankman-Fried's struggle between altruism and reality. Lewis also explores the complexities of public perception in crypto narratives and unravels the financial collapse of FTX, blending personal insights with the art of storytelling in finance. This narrative is both enthralling and cautionary.
Oct 28, 2023 • 33min
Michael Lewis on The Rise and Fall of Sam Bankman-Fried, Part One
Michael Lewis, the bestselling author known for works like "Moneyball" and "The Big Short," discusses Sam Bankman-Fried's rise and fall. He dives into Bankman-Fried's unique personality and rapid ascent in finance, sparked by a hiking encounter. The conversation also uncovers his aptitude for high-frequency trading and the social struggles he faced while navigating a competitive career. Additionally, they explore the fascinating election strategies used to manipulate market trades during the 2016 election, revealing the chaos within the trading firm.
11 snips
Oct 27, 2023 • 1h 1min
James Baldwin: A Man For Our Times with Eddie Glaude
Eddie Glaude, a Princeton professor and author of "Begin Again," teams up with historian Christienna Fryar to dive deep into the legacy of James Baldwin. They discuss Baldwin's vital relevance today, emphasizing a need for America to confront its uncomfortable truths about race and identity. Glaude passionately argues for the destruction of the notion of a white America, urging a complete reckoning with the past. The duo also reflects on Baldwin’s insights as guiding lights for contemporary activism and the quest for a truly multiracial democracy.
Oct 26, 2023 • 11min
Power Trip, Part Three: AI and Society
Artificial intelligence isn't as unbiased as we think. The discussion highlights troubling biases in AI, from hiring processes that favor men to flawed facial recognition systems. Experts shed light on how these algorithms reflect societal prejudices, significantly impacting sectors like law enforcement and healthcare. The conversation dives into the urgent need to address these issues to shape a fairer future for all.
8 snips
Oct 25, 2023 • 38min
The Sceptic's Guide to Self Help
Oliver Burkeman, a Journalist and author known for his thought-provoking columns and bestseller on time management, teams up with Sarah Wilson, founder of the global ‘I Quit Sugar’ movement and author exploring spirituality. They dissect the shortcomings of the self-help industry, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and critical thinking. The conversation uncovers the illusion of empowerment in self-help, urging listeners to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. Together, they offer strategies for a balanced, purposeful life amid societal pressures.
