Intelligence Squared

Matthew Goodwin, a Professor of Politics at the University of Kent and author, joins former chief speechwriter Philip Collins to dissect the UK's political climate as the 2024 general election approaches. They debate whether the Labour Party's substantial lead in polls is sustainable and explore Rishi Sunak's economic challenges. The guests also touch on key issues such as immigration policy, regional inequalities, and strategies for engaging younger voters amidst significant democratic shifts. Their insights illuminate possible outcomes for the election.

Anne Karpf, a writer and sociologist, along with Rajini Vaidyanathan, BBC South Asia correspondent, dive into the gendered aspects of climate change. They discuss how women, particularly in the Global South, are disproportionately affected despite contributing the least to the crisis. The conversation highlights the importance of including women's voices in climate discussions and systemic solutions. They also explore the role of empowering women in sustainable practices, particularly in water management, and how care jobs can be integrated into green economies for lasting change.

Dr. Ricardo Nuila, a physician and author of "The People's Hospital," joins Dr. Ali Hosin to tackle the complexities of the American healthcare system. They highlight stark inequalities despite high spending, revealing the struggles of the uninsured and underinsured. The duo makes compelling comparisons between U.S. healthcare and the UK's NHS, stressing the need for reform. They also discuss the pitfalls of prioritizing profit over patient care and the role of preventive healthcare. The conversation underscores the importance of integrating arts into medical training to combat burnout.

Claire Horn, a research fellow at Dalhousie University and author of "Eve: The Disobedient Future of Birth," dives into the controversial world of artificial womb technology. She discusses the ethical challenges surrounding ectogenesis and its potential impact on reproductive rights. Horn highlights the historical inequities affecting marginalized communities in access to reproductive technologies. The conversation raises urgent questions about women's autonomy and societal control in the face of advancements that could redefine parenthood and birth.

In a provocative discussion, Ben Lewis, an award-winning filmmaker and art critic, and Paul Chan, a noted artist, argue that contemporary art indeed excludes the 99%. They highlight the elitism in art fairs and how private interests overshadow public accessibility. On the contrary, conceptual art pioneer Joseph Kosuth defends the notion that art should challenge societal norms and be inclusive. The debate navigates issues of art as a cultural force, the impact of market dynamics, and the essential role of museums in fostering public engagement.

Award-winning comedian Russell Kane shares his journey from a working-class upbringing in Essex to the vibrant world of stand-up. He candidly discusses his transition from copywriting to comedy, emphasizing the thrill of authenticity. Kane tackles the relationship between masculinity and mental health, highlighting societal pressures on men. Plus, he explores the intricate ties between class and education, urging unity over division. With a humorous take on fame and romance, he remains committed to using comedy as a powerful tool for political commentary.

Join classicists Sarah Iles Johnston and Daisy Dunn as they delve into the timeless allure of Greek mythology. Johnston explores the adaptability of these ancient tales and their moral lessons on arrogance and resilience, while Dunn highlights the modern cultural revival of myths. They discuss characters like Medea and the creativity behind adapting these narratives to address contemporary issues. Discover how these age-old stories still resonate today and evoke existential questions, showcasing the dynamic relationship between gods and mortals.

Henry Dimbleby, a food campaigner and co-founder of LEON, teams up with Times columnist Alice Thomson to tackle the dire state of the global food system. They discuss alarming obesity statistics and the health crises stemming from poor dietary choices. Dimbleby emphasizes the need for sustainable farming and a shift away from processed foods. The conversation dives into how financial constraints impact food decisions, and the necessity of balancing government policies with community actions to create a healthier future for all.

Hallie Rubenhold, a historian known for highlighting marginalized women's stories, and Dan Jones, a broadcaster passionate about inclusive history, delve into the often-overlooked narratives of women throughout history. They discuss the challenges of incorporating female perspectives into military history and the importance of storytelling in shaping our understanding. The conversation underscores the need for diverse voices in historical accounts, showcasing how modern media can engage audiences and reflect deeper societal themes.

Join David Schwimmer, renowned for his iconic role in "Friends," and Nick Mohammed, a talented British comedian and writer, as they discuss their creative collaboration in the sitcom "Intelligence." They reflect on their childhood influences, exploring how storytelling shaped their artistic careers. The duo shares insights on Shakespeare's impact on their passion for performance, the contrasting TV production styles in the U.S. and U.K., and the importance of diversity in comedy. Their conversation is a humorous and thoughtful exploration of their journeys in the entertainment world.