Intelligence Squared

Fiona Hill, a foreign affairs expert who has advised three U.S. presidents, joins writer Edward Lucas to dissect the ongoing war in Ukraine. They delve into Putin's potential next moves and the implications for international relations as elections approach for both Putin and Zelensky. The conversation reveals the complexities of Russia's internal sentiments and the varied geopolitical responses. They also explore the historical context of NATO's expansion and the role of oligarchs in current negotiations, highlighting the critical need for dialogue and collaboration.

Join independent curator Ligaya Salazar, Creative Director Spandana Gopal, and organic food grower Claire Ratinon as they delve into the intersection of race, heritage, and environmental activism. They explore how traditional crafting practices are evolving amid the pressures of colonial history. The trio discusses the radical ties between food production and activism, emphasizing community stewardship in land justice. They also highlight the importance of slow consumption and craftsmanship, advocating for a deeper connection with nature.

Dominic Sandbrook, a historian and BBC broadcaster, joins renowned author Max Hastings, Professor John Charmley, and Margaret MacMillan, an expert in international history, for a riveting debate on Britain's involvement in the First World War. They delve into the moral and geopolitical motivations behind the war, questioning long-held narratives. The discussion tackles Britain's obligations towards Belgium, critiques the human cost of conflict, and examines the enduring impact on national identity. Audiences engage with shifting perspectives that challenge the justification for war.

Emma Dabiri, an insightful academic and author of "Don't Touch My Hair," explores the complex idea of race as a cultural construct rooted in historical injustices. She discusses how understanding its origins can help end racial discrimination. The conversation delves into the significance of personal narratives, especially around black hair, and the importance of allyship. Dabiri emphasizes sustainable business practices that prioritize equity, urging a shift towards genuine representation and environmental responsibility for a just future.

Join award-winning investigative journalist John Sweeney, known for his compelling conflicts coverage, as he unpacks the psyche of Vladimir Putin in light of his tumultuous leadership. Sweeney shares gripping firsthand accounts from the Ukraine invasion and delves into how historical events shaped Putin’s character. Discover the harsh realities faced by journalists under his regime and the implications of NATO expansion on Russia. The discussion culminates with a reflection on energy dependency and its ties to national security.

Robin Dunbar, Emeritus Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, discusses his insights on the evolution of religion and humanity’s innate need for belief. He explains Dunbar's number and how it shapes social connections while emphasizing religion's role in fostering community cohesion. Stuart Ritchie, from King's College London, joins him to explore the psychological and social aspects of faith, the evolution of religious structures in society, and the impact of rituals on social bonding, revealing intriguing connections between religion, community, and human behavior.

Mehdi Hassan, Political Director at the Huffington Post UK and author, argues that Angela Merkel's policies are crippling Europe. He faces criticism from Christine Ockrent, a prominent journalist, and Antony Beevor, an award-winning historian, who defend her leadership. Greek politician Euclid Tsakalotos supports Hassan, emphasizing the negative impacts of austerity on Southern Europe. The debate dives into Germany's fiscal control, the ethical implications of Merkel's decisions, and the future of the eurozone amidst ongoing economic challenges.

Jonathan Freedland, a columnist for The Guardian and the author of The Escape Artist, dives deep into the harrowing escape of Rudolf Vrba from Auschwitz in 1944. He shares insights on the significance of Vrba's firsthand accounts in revealing the grim truths of Nazi atrocities. Freedland emphasizes the urgency to preserve Holocaust narratives as survivors diminish, reflecting on the moral complexities faced by those who received desperate warnings. His discussion uncovers the chilling realities of camp life and the pressing responsibility to share these crucial stories.

Join bestselling author Jamie Susskind, a barrister focused on law and technology, and Nina Schick, a writer and strategic advisor on culture and tech, as they tackle the overpowering influence of big tech. They discuss Susskind's vision of 'digital republicanism' and the need for collective action to counteract biases in technology. The conversation also dives into the power dynamics between political leaders and tech moguls, and advocates for stronger citizen engagement and accountability to reshape a more equitable digital landscape.

Ibram X. Kendi, a renowned activist and author, teams up with BBC journalist Razia Iqbal to dive into themes from his latest book, focusing on raising anti-racist children. They discuss the critical role of education in fostering an equitable future and tackle the influence of parental attitudes on children’s racial views. Kendi shares a poignant story about his daughter’s experience with toys, illustrating how they shape identity. The conversation emphasizes collective responsibility and actionable steps towards a more just society.