Intelligence Squared

In this thought-provoking discussion, sculptor Sir Antony Gormley, climate activist Clover Hogan, and tech visionary Mo Gawdat explore the future of humanity. Gormley emphasizes the role of public art in fostering community and identity. Hogan stresses the urgency of climate action in the next decade, while Gawdat highlights the need to align AI development with human values. Together, they challenge listeners to envision a more hopeful and interconnected future despite ongoing uncertainties.

In a powerful conversation, Ukrainian voices Kira Rudyk, a Member of Parliament and political leader, Michael Bociurkiw, a geopolitical analyst, and Olha Poliukhovych, a cultural educator, explore the war's impact on national identity and unity. They discuss urgent needs for Western support and the challenges of negotiating with Russia, scrutinizing past failures and the humanitarian toll. The guests also reflect on the emotional resilience of Ukrainians, the threat of nuclear dangers, and the importance of safeguarding future generations amid ongoing conflict.

Linsey McGoey is a Professor of Sociology specializing in wealth and power dynamics, while Ryan Bourne serves as the Scharf Chair for Public Understanding of Economics. They passionately debate the morality and impact of billionaires on society, examining issues like wealth concentration, innovation, and the potential for wealth tax reforms. The conversation highlights how billionaires influence democracy and philanthropy, as well as the ethical responsibilities that come with immense wealth, challenging listeners to rethink the implications of extreme wealth accumulation.

Zhanna Nemtsova, a journalist and activist who founded the Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom, shares her harrowing experiences as the daughter of a murdered politician. Alongside Ben Noble, an expert on Russian politics, they discuss the chilling state of dissent in Russia post-Ukraine invasion. The conversation highlights the severe repression of free speech, the personal risks dissenters face, and the regime's manipulation of public sentiment. Together, they explore the urgent need for reform to avoid deeper instability in the region.

Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief at The Economist and author, and Ben Judah, foreign-policy writer and Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, dive into the implications of Emmanuel Macron's electoral win and France's shifting political landscape. They discuss the rise of far-right ideologies, challenges faced by Macron, and the evolving role of youth voters. Additionally, they analyze coalition challenges within the left and the future of French politics amid growing populism and nationalism. It's a fascinating look at France's path in a post-pandemic world.

Greg Hoffman, former CMO of Nike and author of "Emotion by Design," shares his journey of transforming Nike into a global brand. He discusses how creativity and emotional connections drive successful marketing campaigns, highlighting the power of diversity and inclusion in fostering innovation. Hoffman emphasizes the importance of taking risks and learning from failure, inspired by sports legends. He also underlines the role of daydreaming in boosting creativity and establishing compelling narratives that resonate deeply with consumers.

Vincent Martigny, a Professor of Political Science, and Jean-Yves Camus, an expert in political radicalism, unpack the seismic shifts in French politics post-Macron's re-election. They explore how Macron's centrism has inadvertently paved the way for populism, bolstering figures like Marine Le Pen. The discussion touches on the erosion of traditional political parties, the rise of far-right ideologies, and the urgent need for electoral reform to address a fracturing electorate. Insightful predictions about future elections round out this compelling debate.

In this engaging discussion, Morten Christiansen, a psychology professor at Cornell, and Nick Chater, a behavioral science expert at Warwick, dive into the fascinating world of language. They explore how our brains playfully construct language, along with its evolving nature shaped by personal experiences and technology. The duo highlights the deep connections between language, identity, and the impact of dialects, while also examining the challenges of learning languages like Danish. They emphasize the limitations of AI in understanding language, contrasting it with the richness of human communication.

In a candid conversation, Anthony Scaramucci, founder of SkyBridge Capital and former White House Communications Director, shares insights on leadership shaped by his unique experiences. He discusses the importance of resilience and accountability, recalling lessons from high-pressure environments. Scaramucci critiques political leadership, especially during the Trump era, highlighting the complexities of navigating modern politics. He also emphasizes the need for authenticity in leadership, encouraging others to embrace individuality and learn from failures.

George Packer, a renowned journalist and author known for his impactful works in American public discourse, joins to share insights from his latest book, 'Last Best Hope.' He discusses the polarized state of U.S. politics and explores pathways to consensus, emphasizing hope and renewal. The conversation delves into the deepening inequalities in America, the evolving identities within both major parties, and the unpredictable dynamics of Trump’s potential 2024 candidacy. Packer advocates for constructive dialogue to bridge divisions in this charged political landscape.