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
Dec 17, 2023 • 36min
Stuffed: Pen Vogler on Britain's Food History
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.
5 snips
Dec 15, 2023 • 1h 4min
Holiday Reads: Naomi Klein, Mehdi Hasan and Mustafa Suleyman
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.
7 snips
Dec 13, 2023 • 50min
Unlock Your Potential, with Adam Grant And Andrew McAfee
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.
10 snips
Dec 11, 2023 • 47min
Is Capitalism Racist?
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.
8 snips
Dec 10, 2023 • 1h 17min
The Power of Poetry: Words to Heal and Inspire
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.
Dec 8, 2023 • 47min
Remembering Benjamin Zephaniah
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.
15 snips
Dec 6, 2023 • 48min
Michael Pollan and Xand Van Tulleken on the Science of Psychedelics
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.
Dec 4, 2023 • 48min
For What it's Worth: The Importance of Recognition and Being Seen
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.
5 snips
Dec 3, 2023 • 30min
Extremely Online: Taylor Lorenz on the Rise of the Creator Economy
In this engaging conversation, Taylor Lorenz, a tech journalist for the Washington Post and author of "Extremely Online," dives into the chaotic world of social media and the creator economy. She explores how platforms like TikTok have revolutionized public narratives and the rise of new influencers. Taylor discusses the complexities of fame in the digital realm, the dark side of misinformation, and the impact on mental health. Her insights reveal both the empowerment and challenges creators face in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Dec 1, 2023 • 30min
A Death in Malta: Paul Caruana Galizia on the Legacy of Daphne Caruana Galizia
Paul Caruana Galizia, an award-winning journalist and author, delves into the life and tragic death of his mother, Daphne Caruana Galizia, a fearless investigative journalist assassinated in Malta. He discusses the severe political corruption in Malta and the societal implications of the smear campaigns that targeted his mother, revealing the personal toll on truth-seekers. With historian Anne Applebaum, they explore the vital role of journalism in democracy and how civil society can combat autocracy, showcasing a transformative shift towards accountability.
