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
9 snips
Dec 28, 2022 • 1h 5min
Cultural Favourites from the Archives – James Rhodes and Armando Iannucci on the Transformative Power of Music
Join Armando Iannucci, celebrated comedy writer known for 'Veep,' as he passionately discusses classical music's accessibility and its significant role in transforming lives. He shares personal stories that challenge elitist perceptions of the genre, promoting music as a universal language. Dive into the emotional journeys of pieces like Beethoven's sonatas, exploring the deep connection between music and our shared human experiences. Iannucci's insights celebrate how music not only elevates creativity but also positively influences mental health.
Dec 26, 2022 • 1h 5min
The Magic of A Christmas Carol, with Simon Callow and John Mullan
Join Simon Callow, a celebrated actor known for his enchanting performances of A Christmas Carol, and John Mullan, an English literature professor revealing Dickens' narrative tricks. They dive into the magic of Dickens' timeless tale, discussing Scrooge's transformation and the social critiques woven into the story. Mullan and Callow reflect on the nostalgic themes of childhood and the importance of community. The conversation also explores the nuances of Dickens’ characters and the enduring legacy of generosity that A Christmas Carol inspires each holiday season.
Dec 25, 2022 • 53min
The 12 Books of Christmas, Part 4 – Jonathan Freedland, Will MacAskill and Katherine Rundell
In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Freedland, a journalist and author of "The Escape Artist," reflects on the harrowing journey of Holocaust escapees, emphasizing the critical need for historical remembrance. Katherine Rundell, known for her book "The Golden Mole," dives into the enchanting diversity of endangered species, exploring humanity's bond with nature. They also touch on the philosophy of long-termism, advocating for a more responsible view of our actions today and their impact on future generations, urging a shift towards ethical considerations in our choices.
Dec 23, 2022 • 54min
The 12 Books of Christmas, Part 3 – Dipo Faloyin, Lea Ypi and Melissa Thompson
Dipo Faloyin, Vice Senior Editor and author of "Africa Is Not A Country", shares insights on the rich complexity of African identities, challenging stereotypes. Lea Ypi, a political theory professor, recounts her upbringing in Albania during the fall of communism, weaving personal narratives with reflections on freedom. Food writer Melissa Thompson dives into Jamaican cuisine, discussing its cultural significance and the interplay of identity within the diaspora. Together, they explore how diverse stories shape our understanding of culture and heritage.
Dec 21, 2022 • 53min
The 12 Books of Christmas, Part 2 – Oded Galor, Andrea Elliott and Orhan Pamuk
Join Oded Galor, a Brown University economist, as he sheds light on humanity's resilience through history, examining events like the Black Death and their impact on societal evolution. Pulitzer Prize-winner Andrea Elliott shares the inspiring story of Dasani Coates, a young girl navigating life in a homeless shelter, highlighting the harsh realities of childhood poverty. Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk discusses how crises shape narratives, especially around motherhood, in his latest work, 'Nights of Plague,' blending history and fiction to explore human behavior.
Dec 19, 2022 • 54min
The 12 Books of Christmas, Part 1 – Reni Eddo-Lodge, Orlando Figes and Elizabeth Williamson
In this engaging discussion, Reni Eddo-Lodge emphasizes the lasting impact of her book on race relations, examining political activism's disconnect from government responses. Orlando Figes elucidates the historical narratives shaping modern Russian politics, especially in light of Ukraine's plight. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Williamson, with insights from Jon Ronson, tackles the disturbing rise of conspiracy theories stemming from the Sandy Hook tragedy and their societal consequences. Together, they navigate complex themes of race, history, and misinformation, providing thought-provoking insights.
Dec 18, 2022 • 59min
The Sunday Debate: Will protests rock China?
Yasheng Huang, an MIT professor and author, teams up with Kerry Brown, Director of the Lau China Institute, to dissect the recent protests shaking China. They discuss how dissatisfaction with strict COVID policies could shake Xi Jinping's stronghold and transform future governance. The conversation probes China's economic struggles and the global repercussions of its unrest. They also explore the intricate relationship between East and West, emphasizing the need for improved U.S.-China ties amidst rising tensions and the implications for Taiwan.
Dec 16, 2022 • 42min
Slime: A Gooey Natural History
Join science journalist Susanne Wedlich, author of "Slime: A Natural History," as she unravels the gooey mysteries of slime. Discover why hagfish slime is a marvel of nature and learn how it could revolutionize technology, from textiles to naval applications. Wedlich challenges cultural perceptions, discussing slime’s significant role in sustainability and its surprising ties to femininity in literature. She also highlights the rise of slime as a playful cultural phenomenon, showcasing our complex relationship with this often-misunderstood substance.
25 snips
Dec 14, 2022 • 36min
ChatGPT: The Death and Rebirth of Writing
Stephen Marche, a novelist and cultural commentator, dives into the fascinating impacts of ChatGPT on writing. He discusses the potential demise of traditional authorship versus the possibility of a renaissance in creativity. The conversation highlights concerns about educational equity and the unique challenges AI poses to essay writing. Marche further explores the dynamics of authenticity in writing, questioning how AI-generated content influences our understanding of creativity. His insights provoke thought on the future of literary expression in a tech-driven world.
Dec 12, 2022 • 60min
How Did Zelensky Become One of the Most Significant Wartime Leaders of the 21st Century? with Olga Onuch and Henry Hale
In this engaging discussion, Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, shares insights into his extraordinary journey from comedian to symbolic wartime leader. Joined by Henry Hale, a political science professor, they delve into the 'Zelensky Effect,' examining how his unique identity and experiences galvanized Ukrainian resistance against invasion. They explore the complexities of Ukraine’s political landscape, Zelensky's effective crisis leadership, and his impact on national unity through powerful communication. The conversation also reflects on his potential legacy in global geopolitics.
