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 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.
11 snips
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.
Apr 1, 2023 • 40min
Emily Ratajkowski on Feminism, Capitalism, and Exploitation
Emily Ratajkowski, acclaimed model and outspoken feminist, sits down with Samira Ahmed to unpack her rise to fame post-'Blurred Lines'. They dive deep into the complicated interplay between feminism and capitalism, discussing the exploitation of women's bodies in media. Ratajkowski reflects on her battles with self-worth amid societal pressures, sharing insights on the vulnerabilities faced in the modeling industry. The conversation also highlights the healing power of storytelling, urging women to reclaim their narratives and foster solidarity against exploitation.
Mar 31, 2023 • 58min
Anaximander: the Ancient World’s Most Radical Scientific Thinker
Carlo Rovelli, a theoretical physicist and best-selling author, teams up with award-winning historian Tom Holland to discuss Anaximander, the groundbreaking ancient Greek philosopher. They delve into how Anaximander's ideas challenged divine explanations of the cosmos, paving the way for naturalistic science. The conversation touches on his revolutionary concepts that influenced future scientific inquiry and the evolution of philosophical thought. Rovelli and Holland also explore the vibrant intellectual climate of ancient Ionia as a cradle of enlightenment and innovation.
Mar 30, 2023 • 33min
Is Gene Editing The Next Great Health Revolution? Part II
In this engaging discussion, Tom Whipple, Science Editor at The Times, dives into the transformative world of gene editing. He highlights CRISPR's revolutionary potential in treating diseases like cancer and sickle cell, sparking thrilling excitement in medical research. The conversation also navigates tough ethical waters, debating the reality of 'designer babies' and the need for societal regulation. Personal stories from individuals impacted by gene therapy bring the science to life, exploring both the promise and the profound responsibilities that accompany such advancements.
