Intelligence Squared

Samuel Moyn, a Yale Law and History professor and author of "Humane," talks about the evolution of warfare from Vietnam to Iraq. He reveals how U.S. foreign policy has influenced modern conflicts, highlighting the ethical dilemmas in today’s combat practices, especially with drone warfare. The discussion dives into the complexities of contemporary geopolitical tensions, including Ukraine and Taiwan, and critiques the humanitarian narrative of modern warfare. Moyn advocates for a re-evaluation of human rights laws to better protect civilians.

In a thought-provoking debate, Natasha Hausdorff, a barrister and director at UK Lawyers for Israel, weighs in on historical legality, while Ehud Olmert, former Prime Minister of Israel, reflects on the peace negotiations he pursued. Palestinian activist Ghada Karmi discusses identity and nationalism, revealing deep-seated grievances. Jack Straw offers insights into the UK's geopolitical stance. The conversation navigates the complexities of Jerusalem's capital status, addressing emotional stakes and the urgent need for a truthful narrative to foster peace.

Gönül Tol, the Founding Director of the Middle East Institute's Turkey program and an expert on Turkish politics, discusses the complex political landscape under Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. She highlights Erdoğan's transition from a conservative democrat to a nationalist leader and its impacts on Turkish society and politics. Tol delves into Turkey's shifting relationship with Syria, the challenges of press freedom, and the implications of Erdoğan's controversial economic policies. Her insights provide a compelling look into the intersection of power, identity, and governance in modern Turkey.

Mikhail Khodorkovsky, former head of Yukos and a vocal critic of Putin, shares his harrowing story of imprisonment and insights on Russia’s political landscape. Joined by journalist Martin Sixsmith, they discuss how Western strategies can counter Putin’s aggression, the misconceptions about Russia's transition post-Soviet Union, and the potential for meaningful peace negotiations amidst the Ukraine conflict. Khodorkovsky's reflections reveal the deep-seated complexities within Russia that the West must understand to foster change.

Bruce Daisley, a thought leader on workplace culture and former Vice President of Twitter Europe, discusses inner strength and resilience in modern work. He challenges the myth of grit, advocating for adaptability over mere persistence. Daisley emphasizes the importance of community and meaningful connections in fostering mental health and well-being. He also explores how to integrate cooperative learning in education and workplace culture while highlighting shared joy in remote teams and the vital role of family in building resilience.

Olufemi Taiwo, a Professor of African Political Thought at Cornell and author of *Against Decolonisation*, joins Dipo Faloyin, a VICE editor and author of *Africa Is Not A Country*. They dive into the intricacies of decolonization, questioning whether it truly empowers African nations or oversimplifies complex issues. The discussion touches on the legacies of colonialism, nation-building challenges, and the importance of acknowledging Africa's rich pre-colonial history and agency post-independence. It's a nuanced look at a pivotal topic.

Justine Picardie, a celebrated journalist and author of 'Miss Dior,' shares the gripping story of Catherine Dior, sister of famed designer Christian Dior. She discusses Catherine's bravery as a member of the French resistance during World War II, her harrowing imprisonment, and how these experiences shaped her brother's fashion career. The conversation delves into their complex relationship, the societal challenges Catherine faced, and her enduring legacy, symbolized by her rose fields that represent survival and resilience.

Join Leah Thomas, environmental activist and author of 'The Intersectional Environmentalist', as she uncovers the crucial link between environmentalism and social justice. She discusses how marginalized communities face the brunt of climate change while emphasizing the need for an intersectional approach to activism. Leah critiques performative activism and the pitfalls of greenwashing, advocating for genuine commitment to sustainability. The conversation also highlights the importance of diverse voices in climate movements, particularly those of climate organizers of color.

Dan McCrum, a Financial Times journalist, uncovers the shocking truth behind Wirecard, a tech startup that turned out to be a massive financial fraud. He shares the gripping details of his investigation, including tense sting operations and courageous whistleblowers. McCrum discusses the risks investigative journalists face while unmasking corporate deception and the implications of the scandal on Germany's financial reputation. His new book, "Money Men," dives deep into this bizarre tale that intertwines innovation with deceit.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Eric Dyson, a noted sociologist, and William Howell, an expert on American politics, argue that the political establishment has failed to serve the needs of the populace. Opposing this view, Jennifer Rubin, a sharp columnist from The Washington Post, and Eric Oliver, a political scientist, defend the establishment's role in maintaining stability. They delve into issues like political accountability, historical roots of inequality, and the necessity for reform in governance. Explore their passionate exchanges and insights on America's political landscape.