
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.
Latest episodes

Jul 1, 2022 • 53min
Eton, Oxford, Westminster: The Formative Pipeline of Britain's Ruling Elite, with Simon Kuper
In this discussion, Simon Kuper, an FT columnist and author of 'Chums', dives into the elite education pipeline of Eton, Oxford, and Westminster that shapes Britain's ruling class. He explores how this system perpetuates social class distinctions and influences governance. Kuper delves into the historical context of oxocracy, the implications of a homogenous elite, and the detachment it fosters from real-world issues. He also addresses the challenges women and minorities face within this political landscape, emphasizing the need for more diverse leadership.

Jun 29, 2022 • 38min
Escaping Xinjiang, with Nury Turkel
Nury Turkel, a Uyghur American lawyer and human rights advocate, shares his compelling journey, having been born in a re-education camp in Xinjiang. He discusses the historical and cultural significance of Xinjiang for the Uyghur people, highlighting personal stories of oppression and the emotional toll of family separation. Turkel emphasizes the urgent need for global activism against systemic abuses and reflects on the importance of preserving Uyghur identity amidst ongoing repression. This conversation is a powerful call to recognize and confront human rights violations.

Jun 27, 2022 • 59min
Why We Fight, with Christopher Blattman
Christopher Blattman, an economist and political scientist at the University of Chicago, shares insights from his book on the roots of war and peace. He discusses how poverty and oppression fuel conflict while exploring humanity's innate push for peace amidst global crises. Blattman delves into the complex dynamics of negotiations in conflict situations, particularly looking at the Ukraine-Russia tensions. He emphasizes the crucial role of understanding local motivations and how criminal groups can unexpectedly drive stability in communities impacted by violence.

Jun 26, 2022 • 1h 4min
The Sunday Debate: The Northern Ireland Question: Is it Time to Abandon The Protocol?
Jill Rutter, a Brexit expert, delves into the complexities of the Northern Ireland Protocol and its historical context. Claire Hanna, MP for South Belfast, provides the nationalist viewpoint, discussing the protocol's implications for peace and stability. Darren McCaffrey shares insights on political dynamics in Northern Ireland, emphasizing the need for compromise amidst ongoing tensions. The conversation highlights the challenges of balancing UK-EU relations while addressing local concerns and the potential impact on the region's future.

Jun 24, 2022 • 41min
Neighbouring Russia, with Erika Fatland
Erika Fatland, a Norwegian writer focused on cultural history and author of 'The Border,' joins to explore the complexities of Russia's relationships with its 14 neighboring countries. She discusses how the historical context of imperialism and Soviet influence shapes these dynamics today. From North Korea's ties influenced by communism to Georgia’s vibrant culture amid geopolitical strife, Fatland reveals the tensions and connections that define these nations. Her reflections on Ukraine’s current conflict and its identity crises add critical contemporary insight.

Jun 22, 2022 • 48min
How to Be an Antiracist, with Ibram X. Kendi
Ibram X. Kendi, a historian and author renowned for his book 'How to Be an Antiracist,' engages with Razia Iqbal, a BBC journalist and Princeton professor, in a thought-provoking dialogue. They delve into the crucial distinctions between 'not racist' and 'anti-racist,' sharing personal stories and reflections on systemic racism. The conversation shifts to the political landscape, exploring how party ideologies influence racial policies. Kendi emphasizes the importance of historical optimism in activism, drawing inspiring parallels to past movements against injustice.

Jun 20, 2022 • 45min
The Hidden World of Bisexuality, with Julia Shaw
Dr. Julia Shaw, a criminal psychologist and author of "Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality," dives deep into the often misunderstood world of bisexuality. She discusses historical figures and activists like Brenda Howard who shaped the Pride movement. The talk addresses late coming out, internal conflicts, societal pressures, and the misconceptions that fuel stigma. Julia emphasizes the mental health impacts on bisexual individuals and advocates for recognition and education to promote inclusivity across communities.

Jun 19, 2022 • 1h 7min
The Sunday Debate: Parenting Doesn’t Matter (Or Not As Much As You Think)
This discussion features Robert Plomin, a behavioural genetics professor from King's College London, and Susan Pawlby, a developmental psychologist, alongside therapist Ann Pleshette Murphy and genetic psychiatry expert Stuart Ritchie. They challenge traditional views on parenting's role in shaping children, arguing that genetics often holds more sway. Love and attachment are highlighted as pivotal to development, while socioeconomic factors and parenting styles complicate the narrative. The debate encourages a nuanced understanding of the balance between nature and nurture.

Jun 17, 2022 • 1h 1min
Bittersweet: Finding Purpose in Sorrow, with Susan Cain
Susan Cain, bestselling author of "Quiet" and "Bittersweet," delves into the beauty of embracing our bittersweet emotions. She explores how joy and sorrow coexist, enriching our personal experiences and connections. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Cain highlights the profound impact of bittersweetness on creativity and resilience. The discussion also touches on how introverts uniquely perceive these emotions and the struggles of articulating deep feelings. Ultimately, it’s an exploration of the duality that shapes our lives and arts.

Jun 15, 2022 • 57min
How To Live With Each Other, with Farhan Samanani
Farhan Samanani, a Canadian social anthropologist and author of 'How to Live with Each Other', dives into how embracing diversity can strengthen communities. He shares insights from his work in Kilburn, London, revealing how our identities are shaped by cultural interactions. Joined by Dipo Faloyin, they discuss the struggles and resilience of marginalized groups, the balance between liberalism and civic republicanism, and the fluidity of identity. Their conversation highlights how diverse narratives can promote empathy and foster a deeper sense of belonging.