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
7 snips
May 11, 2025 • 46min
What Can Ancient Civilisations Teach Us About Survival? With Lizzie Wade
In this engaging discussion, science journalist Lizzie Wade, author of *Apocalypse*, explores how historical catastrophes like pandemics have shaped human resilience. Wade reinterprets the concept of apocalypse as a transformative opportunity rather than an ending. She examines lessons from ancient civilizations that can help us navigate current crises. Joining her is Caroline Dodds Pennock, who adds insights on the societal shifts caused by events like the Black Death and how these reflections can inspire modern adaptability.
13 snips
May 10, 2025 • 45min
What Can The Stoics Teach Us About Capitalism?
Robert Rosenkranz, a financier, philanthropist, and author of The Stoic Capitalist, shares how ancient Stoic wisdom can inform modern capitalism. He discusses ethical decision-making in today's fast-paced business world, blending practical advice with philosophical insights. Rosenkranz recounts his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to financial success, emphasizing the courage needed to innovate. He also highlights essential principles such as emotional control and rationality, while addressing the intersections of trust in investments and advancements in longevity research.
7 snips
May 8, 2025 • 40min
Are you morally ambitious? With Rutger Bregman (Part Two)
Rutger Bregman, a renowned historian and bestselling author, passionately advocates for moral ambition and the need for societal change. He discusses the importance of shifting focus from personal wealth to addressing global challenges. Highlighting the stagnation of social progress, he emphasizes learning from history’s changemakers and critiques traditional philanthropic practices. Bregman introduces initiatives like the School for Moral Ambition, aiming to inspire individuals to use their talents for the greater good and to redefine success.
11 snips
May 6, 2025 • 40min
Are you morally ambitious? With Rutger Bregman (Part One)
Rutger Bregman, a renowned historian and bestselling author of 'Utopia for Realists,' discusses the importance of moral ambition in creating a better world. He critiques elite philanthropy and advocates for a redefined success that emphasizes societal impact over personal gain. Bregman shares inspiring stories of historical change-makers, underscoring the need for moral courage and community in driving significant social change. He also critiques the idea of merely raising awareness, arguing for practical actions that lead to real progress.
47 snips
May 4, 2025 • 40min
Author of Four Thousand Weeks Oliver Burkeman on How To Live Well (Part Two)
Oliver Burkeman, an acclaimed author and journalist, shares profound insights on how to live with intention. He discusses the liberation of effortless engagement, urging listeners to prioritize joy over relentless productivity. The concept of 'scruffy hospitality' is introduced, encouraging authentic connections without the burden of perfection. Burkeman also addresses the pressures of imposter syndrome and the importance of embracing imperfections, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from meaningful experiences and accepting our limitations.
35 snips
May 3, 2025 • 39min
Author of Four Thousand Weeks Oliver Burkeman on How To Live Well (Part One)
In this engaging discussion, Oliver Burkeman, a celebrated author and journalist known for his work on productivity and time management, shares transformative insights on living well. He challenges the relentless pursuit of productivity and encourages listeners to embrace their limitations. Burkeman explores the struggle of modern life against societal pressures, advocating for a focus on what truly matters. He also uses the metaphors of kayaking versus sailing super yachts to illustrate the unpredictable nature of life, urging a shift toward acceptance and fulfillment.
26 snips
May 1, 2025 • 40min
Jonathan Haidt on How to Free the Anxious Generation (Part Two)
In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and bestselling author renowned for his insights on morality and technology's effects on youth, tackles the mental health crisis afflicting today's young individuals. He links the rise in adolescent distress to a decline in free play and the rampant use of smartphones. Haidt offers practical strategies for parents and educators to combat these challenges. This conversation illuminates how to reclaim agency in a digital age and fosters hope for a brighter future for the anxious generation.
41 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 44min
Jonathan Haidt on How to Free the Anxious Generation (Part One)
In this insightful discussion, Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and bestselling author of 'The Anxious Generation', dives into the alarming mental health crisis among today's youth. He links this rise in anxiety to the decline of free play and the overwhelming influence of smartphones. Haidt shares practical strategies for parents and educators to foster resilience in children, emphasizing the need for independence in childhood. He also critiques social media's role in shaping behavior and community, urging a reevaluation of its impact on young lives.
Apr 28, 2025 • 60min
A Cultural History of Privacy, with Tiffany Jenkins
Tiffany Jenkins, a cultural historian and author of Strangers & Intimates, dives into the historical and evolving concept of privacy. She discusses how privacy is shaped by societal influences, tracing its significance from ancient times to today’s digital era. The conversation touches on the impact of the Reformation on private beliefs, the historical roles of women in public vs. private spheres, and the tension between surveillance and personal freedom. Carl Miller joins the discussion, adding a contemporary perspective on our need for privacy in an increasingly open society.
14 snips
Apr 27, 2025 • 1h 38min
Britain Should Not Have Fought in the First World War
In a thought-provoking discussion, historians Dominic Sandbrook, Max Hastings, John Charmley, and Margaret MacMillan debate Britain's involvement in the First World War. Sandbrook and Charmley argue that staying neutral could have spared immense suffering, while Hastings counters, highlighting the moral imperative to resist German dominance. MacMillan emphasizes the ethical obligations that motivated Britain to fight. The conversation challenges traditional narratives about national identity and the moral justifications for war, inviting listeners to reevaluate historical perceptions.
