Intelligence Squared

In this engaging discussion, George Monbiot, a Guardian columnist and environmental campaigner, and Mark Cocker, an author and naturalist, champion the rewilding of Britain's uplands. They argue for ecological restoration, showcasing the benefits of increasing biodiversity and sustainable tourism. Conversely, Rory Stewart, a former Conservative minister, and Minette Batters, President of the National Farmers' Union, staunchly oppose rewilding, emphasizing the economic and community challenges it presents. The lively debate navigates the complexities of land use and the future of rural England.

Ed Yong, a Pulitzer Prize-winning science writer for The Atlantic and author of "An Immense World," joins Chrissie Giles, Global Health Editor at the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, for an intriguing discussion. They dive into how various animals perceive their environments—and what senses drive their behaviors. From the chaotic creativity of deep-sea creatures to the impacts of sensory pollution, the conversation highlights the importance of understanding animal perspectives. Expect captivating anecdotes and reflections on the complexities of nature and human empathy.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Simon Brewer, former Chief Investment Officer and Money Maze podcast host, Adrienne Buller, political economist and author, and Lucy Kellaway, ex-FT columnist turned educator, redefine value in today's world. They tackle how the financial landscape shifts with ESG considerations and the influence of private equity. The panel emphasizes prioritizing community and well-being over mere profit, arguing for a societal shift that values sustainability, health, and personal fulfillment over traditional monetary metrics.

Kate Raworth, a senior associate at Oxford's Environmental Change Institute and author of 'Donut Economics', discusses groundbreaking ideas that challenge traditional economics. She introduces the 'doughnut' concept, advocating for a balance between societal well-being and ecological sustainability. Raworth critiques conventional economic models, urging for visual representations that incorporate social contexts. The conversation extends to the interplay between altruism and self-interest in shaping economic behavior, and the urgent need for innovative policies prioritizing human needs.

George the Poet, a Peabody Award-winning spoken word artist, and Howard Jacobson, a Booker Prize-winning novelist, dive into a spirited debate about the cultural resonance of hip-hop versus Shakespeare. They explore how hip-hop conveys societal narratives rooted in struggles, while Shakespeare's timeless themes reflect human complexities. The conversation highlights the importance of both art forms in understanding identity and moral dilemmas. Through their insights, they illustrate how diverse cultural expressions can coexist and enrich our perspectives.

Dr. Ben Cave, a consultant forensic psychiatrist with 35 years of experience and author of 'What We Fear Most,' shares insights into the complexities of treating individuals with profound mental health issues. He discusses the stigma surrounding mental illness and crime, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding. Ben reflects on the emotional challenges faced by psychiatrists, including feelings of guilt and the impact of societal perceptions. His experiences highlight the transformative journey of understanding mental illness and the importance of promoting early intervention.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Freedland, a Guardian columnist and Orwell Prize winner, teams up with Simon Jenkins, a former editor of The Evening Standard and The Times. They delve into Boris Johnson's dramatic resignation and its profound implications for British politics. The conversation highlights the erosion of public trust and the dangers of charismatic leadership without substance. They also explore the emotional toll of political lies and the persistent influence of populism in the current political climate.

Jamie Bartlett, an internet politics expert and author of "The Missing Cryptoqueen," joins Leila Begum, a victim of the OneCoin scam, to unveil the deception behind Dr. Ruja Ignatova's cryptocurrency fraud. They discuss how emotional tactics ensnared investors, the intricate web of complicity among institutions, and the personal toll on victims. Bartlett shares insights from his investigative work, revealing the challenges of journalism in exposing such scams and the need for accountability in the digital finance landscape.

Kübra Gümüsay, a writer and activist focused on social justice, dives deep into the power of language with host Danielle Sands. They explore how words shape identity and the immigrant experience, emphasizing the necessity of humility for genuine dialogue. Gümüsay critiques societal labeling, calling for spaces that foster understanding beyond superficial classifications. The discussion also touches on the cultural shift of the Value Revolution and the importance of creating nurturing environments in a judgmental digital age.

Christine Emba, a Washington Post columnist and author of "Rethinking Sex: A Provocation," joins Dossie Easton, therapist and co-author of "The Ethical Slut," to tackle controversial questions about sex positivity and its effects on feminism. They discuss whether modern sexual freedom truly empowers women or merely reflects societal pressures. The conversation dives into the orgasm gap, the role of men in feminist discourse, and the vital importance of comprehensive sex education, urging a reexamination of intimacy and ethical boundaries.