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, 2023 • 48min
Russell Kane on Class and Comedy
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.
4 snips
Apr 12, 2023 • 42min
Gods and Mortals: What Ancient Greek Myths Can Teach Us About Today
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.
Apr 10, 2023 • 1h 1min
Henry Dimbleby and Alice Thomson On How The Global Food System Is Killing Us
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.
Apr 9, 2023 • 45min
History vs Herstory
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.
Apr 8, 2023 • 1h 4min
Growing Up with David Schwimmer and Nick Mohammed
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.
Apr 8, 2023 • 47min
Iraq: 20 Years On | Is American Power in Decline? with General Petraeus
General David Petraeus, a renowned four-star General and former CIA director, shares insights into the legacy of the Iraq War two decades later. He reflects on key miscalculations during the war, including the disbandment of the Iraqi military that fueled chaos. Petraeus discusses how these past decisions influence current U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the rise of extremism and Russian aggression in Ukraine. He also examines the complexities of U.S.-China relations and the modern geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the importance of effective communication.
Apr 5, 2023 • 58min
Chasing the Urge – Addiction Throughout History
Carl Erik Fisher, a psychiatrist and author of 'The Urge: Our History of Addiction,' teams up with physicist Helen Czerski to explore the intricate history of addiction. They discuss its ties to identity, power, and commerce, advocating for a compassionate view of this complex issue. Delving into historical contexts like the Opium Wars, they challenge the simplistic views of addiction as merely a disease or vice. Their conversation also touches on the potential of psychedelics in mental health treatment and the importance of community support in recovery.
Apr 4, 2023 • 43min
Philip Pullman on Childhood and Fantasy
Bestselling author Philip Pullman, renowned for his *His Dark Materials* trilogy, talks with broadcaster Samira Ahmed about the childhood experiences that shaped his storytelling. He reflects on the impact of travels and Greek mythology on his creativity. Pullman discusses crafting unique fantasy worlds, the emotional influence of loss, and his grandfather's role in his life. Delving into gothic influences, he highlights how Edgar Allan Poe and Milton's *Paradise Lost* fueled his literary journey, intertwining faith and imagination.
Apr 3, 2023 • 48min
Kate Mosse on Recognising Women's Success
Kate Mosse, a best-selling author renowned for her historical fiction, shares her journey and advocacy for female writers. She discusses the challenges women face in a male-dominated literary world and emphasizes the importance of recognizing their contributions. Mosse reflects on her upbringing in Sussex and the transformative moments that shaped her activism. The conversation also celebrates the Women's Prize for Fiction, highlighting the need for diverse voices in literature and the authenticity required in depicting women's agency in historical narratives.
Apr 2, 2023 • 1h 34min
Britain Should Not Have Fought in the First World War
In a riveting discussion, historians Dominic Sandbrook, Max Hastings, John Charmley, and Margaret MacMillan debate Britain's involvement in the First World War. Sandbrook critiques the emotional basis of war decisions while Hastings questions the portrayal of Germany as the sole aggressor. Charmley highlights the complex motivations behind intervention, and MacMillan warns against glorifying warfare. They explore the nuanced impacts of British actions, ponder alternative outcomes, and urge careful examination of historical narratives that shape modern foreign policy.
