Intelligence Squared

Join Melissa Thompson, a renowned BBC Good Food columnist and author of "Motherland: A Jamaican Cookbook," along with Riaz Phillips, author of "West Winds: Recipes, History and Tales from Jamaica," as they dive into the rich tapestry of Jamaican cuisine. They explore iconic dishes like jerk chicken and ackee and saltfish, tracing their roots through cultural influences ranging from Africa to colonialism. The conversation highlights the importance of culinary identity, authenticity, and celebrates the evolving narrative of Caribbean food in the global landscape.

In this discussion, David Broder, Europe editor of Jacobin Magazine, and Luigi Scazzieri from the Centre for European Reform, along with Balázs Orbán, political director for Hungary’s Prime Minister, delve deep into Giorgia Meloni's impact as Italy's first female prime minister. They explore the shifting dynamics of the European right, dissect the blurring lines between center-right and far-right politics, and debate the challenges of nationalism and anti-immigrant sentiments. The conversation also navigates Italy’s economic troubles and how they affect the political landscape across Europe.

Join esteemed historians Margaret MacMillan, Sir Max Hastings, and Peter Frankopan as they delve into the implications of the war in Ukraine. They discuss how historical narratives shape modern geopolitics, questioning Putin's invocation of the past. The trio analyzes the logistical blunders behind the Russian invasion and the critical role of U.S. support for Ukraine. They also explore the emotional dimensions of leadership in conflict and the need for cautious, informed responses to today's global tensions.

Matthew Goodwin, an academic and author known for his insights into global politics, joins Camilla Cavendish, a Financial Times columnist and former policy chief under David Cameron. Together, they dissect Rishi Sunak’s rise as the youngest UK Prime Minister during a politically tumultuous time. They discuss his challenges in uniting a divided Conservative Party, addressing economic instability, and engaging younger voters. The conversation navigates the complexities of post-Brexit governance and the escalating crises within the NHS, emphasizing the need for decisive leadership.

Sir Lawrence Freedman, an authority on military strategy and author of "Command: The Politics of Military Operations from Korea to Ukraine," speaks alongside Mark Galeotti, a modern Russia expert. They discuss the intertwining of military leadership and civilian priorities in conflicts from the Cuban Missile Crisis to Ukraine. The conversation reveals the evolution of warfare amid technological advancements and emphasizes the importance of strategy in governance. They shed light on the challenges of negotiation and the complex dynamics of modern military engagements.

Shashi Tharoor, an influential Indian politician and writer, joins Joe Johnson, a former British minister, to discuss the evolving friendship between Britain and India 75 years after independence. They dive into the lingering effects of colonialism, exploring how historical events like the Jallianwala Bagh massacre shape present-day relations. The duo also tackles contemporary challenges, including India's foreign policy amid the Ukraine conflict and the troubling rise of communal politics in the UK, raising vital questions about multiculturalism and collective memory.

Join Sonia Sodha, a columnist and author from The Guardian, and Sherelle Jacobs, a journalist at The Daily Telegraph, as they dissect the fallout from Liz Truss’s shocking resignation. They explore the chaotic political landscape following her short tenure, highlighting the economic chaos triggered by her policies. The discussion touches on the internal strife within the Conservative Party, prospects for a general election, and the unsettling possibility of Boris Johnson's return to leadership, all while reflecting on the future direction of UK politics.

Sarah Langford, a barrister turned author, shares insights from her journey back to farming, highlighting the modern challenges farmers face, such as climate change and Brexit. She discusses her book 'Rooted,' revealing stories of a new wave of regenerative farmers embracing ecological practices. Joining her is Thomasina Miers, co-founder of Wahaca, who adds a culinary perspective on sustainability in food sourcing. Together, they explore the intersection of traditional farming and innovative practices, advocating for smarter, sustainable choices.

In this engaging conversation, historian Yuval Noah Harari, author of Sapiens and Homo Deus, discusses his new children's book, Unstoppable Us. He explores how technology will shape humanity's future and asserts that we still hold the reins of our destiny amid global crises. Harari critiques the expected reset post-COVID-19 and examines the storytelling legacy that guides human learning. He also dives into the impact of pandemics on society and emphasizes the need for accountability in the face of technological manipulation and environmental challenges.

In a spirited debate, Anthony Horowitz, the author of the Alex Rider series and the official James Bond continuation novel, defends Ian Fleming's swashbuckling legacy. Opposing him, David Farr, Emmy-nominated for TV's The Night Manager, champions the profound storytelling of John le Carré. Simon Callow adds flair as they explore the contrasting portrayals of espionage heroes Bond and Smiley, the cultural impact of their works, and the complexities of adapting their stories for film. Who reigns supreme in the literary spy world?