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
6 snips
Nov 6, 2022 • 30min
The Sunday Debate: Is America a force for good in the world? Part 1
Shadi Hamid, a foreign policy expert and author of "The Problem of Democracy," contends that America's influence often acts as a force for good, pressuring authoritarian regimes and supporting democracies. In contrast, Samuel Moyn, an academic and author of "Humane," argues that while there are worse global alternatives, America's interventions have caused significant harm. The debate dives into America's complex roles in democracy, climate challenges, and its resilience against authoritarianism, offering a nuanced view of U.S. actions on the world stage.
Nov 4, 2022 • 50min
Persuasion in an Age of Polarisation, with Anand Giridharadas
Anand Giridharadas, a journalist and best-selling author of The Persuaders, dives into the crisis of healthy debate in today’s polarized society. He emphasizes the need for genuine dialogue over manipulation, advocating for compassion in discussions. The conversation touches on the dual role of advertising in social issues, the importance of framing arguments for positive change, and the fluidity of political identity. Giridharadas also explores how local perspectives can bridge divides on contentious topics like immigration.
Nov 2, 2022 • 1h 2min
India at 75 – Secularism and the Rise of Hindu Nationalism, with Rana Ayyub
In this engaging discussion, Rana Ayyub, an acclaimed journalist known for her bold critiques of Prime Minister Modi, talks with broadcaster Kavita Puri about India's complex journey since independence. They examine the interplay between secularism and rising Hindu nationalism, exploring how societal narratives impact security for minorities, particularly Muslims. Ayyub shares personal experiences highlighting the risks of dissent and the challenges facing journalists in a tense political climate, stressing the need to uphold secular values in the face of growing authoritarianism.
Oct 31, 2022 • 40min
Jamaica's Culinary Journey, with Melissa Thompson and Riaz Phillips
Join Melissa Thompson, a renowned BBC Good Food columnist and author of "Motherland: A Jamaican Cookbook," along with Riaz Phillips, author of "West Winds: Recipes, History and Tales from Jamaica," as they dive into the rich tapestry of Jamaican cuisine. They explore iconic dishes like jerk chicken and ackee and saltfish, tracing their roots through cultural influences ranging from Africa to colonialism. The conversation highlights the importance of culinary identity, authenticity, and celebrates the evolving narrative of Caribbean food in the global landscape.
Oct 30, 2022 • 42min
The Sunday Debate: What does Giorgia Meloni mean for Europe?
In this discussion, David Broder, Europe editor of Jacobin Magazine, and Luigi Scazzieri from the Centre for European Reform, along with Balázs Orbán, political director for Hungary’s Prime Minister, delve deep into Giorgia Meloni's impact as Italy's first female prime minister. They explore the shifting dynamics of the European right, dissect the blurring lines between center-right and far-right politics, and debate the challenges of nationalism and anti-immigrant sentiments. The conversation also navigates Italy’s economic troubles and how they affect the political landscape across Europe.
Oct 28, 2022 • 54min
The Fulcrum of History: Margaret MacMillan, Sir Max Hastings and Peter Frankopan on the War in Ukraine
Join esteemed historians Margaret MacMillan, Sir Max Hastings, and Peter Frankopan as they delve into the implications of the war in Ukraine. They discuss how historical narratives shape modern geopolitics, questioning Putin's invocation of the past. The trio analyzes the logistical blunders behind the Russian invasion and the critical role of U.S. support for Ukraine. They also explore the emotional dimensions of leadership in conflict and the need for cautious, informed responses to today's global tensions.
Oct 26, 2022 • 35min
Ready for Rishi? The Treacherous Road Ahead for the UK’s New Prime Minister, with Matthew Goodwin and Camilla Cavendish
Matthew Goodwin, an academic and author known for his insights into global politics, joins Camilla Cavendish, a Financial Times columnist and former policy chief under David Cameron. Together, they dissect Rishi Sunak’s rise as the youngest UK Prime Minister during a politically tumultuous time. They discuss his challenges in uniting a divided Conservative Party, addressing economic instability, and engaging younger voters. The conversation navigates the complexities of post-Brexit governance and the escalating crises within the NHS, emphasizing the need for decisive leadership.
Oct 24, 2022 • 56min
War and Politics in the 21st Century, with Sir Lawrence Freedman
Sir Lawrence Freedman, an authority on military strategy and author of "Command: The Politics of Military Operations from Korea to Ukraine," speaks alongside Mark Galeotti, a modern Russia expert. They discuss the intertwining of military leadership and civilian priorities in conflicts from the Cuban Missile Crisis to Ukraine. The conversation reveals the evolution of warfare amid technological advancements and emphasizes the importance of strategy in governance. They shed light on the challenges of negotiation and the complex dynamics of modern military engagements.
Oct 23, 2022 • 1h
India at 75: Can Britain and India be friends?
Shashi Tharoor, an influential Indian politician and writer, joins Joe Johnson, a former British minister, to discuss the evolving friendship between Britain and India 75 years after independence. They dive into the lingering effects of colonialism, exploring how historical events like the Jallianwala Bagh massacre shape present-day relations. The duo also tackles contemporary challenges, including India's foreign policy amid the Ukraine conflict and the troubling rise of communal politics in the UK, raising vital questions about multiculturalism and collective memory.
Oct 21, 2022 • 33min
Party’s Over: Liz Truss’s Resignation, with Sonia Sodha and Sherelle Jacobs
Join Sonia Sodha, a columnist and author from The Guardian, and Sherelle Jacobs, a journalist at The Daily Telegraph, as they dissect the fallout from Liz Truss’s shocking resignation. They explore the chaotic political landscape following her short tenure, highlighting the economic chaos triggered by her policies. The discussion touches on the internal strife within the Conservative Party, prospects for a general election, and the unsettling possibility of Boris Johnson's return to leadership, all while reflecting on the future direction of UK politics.
