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
Jun 3, 2025 • 36min
How has resistance shaped Britain? With Steve McQueen (Part One)
In this engaging discussion, acclaimed filmmaker and artist Steve McQueen, known for '12 Years a Slave', shares insights alongside award-winning journalist Gary Younge. They explore the profound impact of resistance on Britain's social landscape, tracing movements from the suffrage era to recent protests. McQueen highlights the role of photography in activism, uncovering overlooked stories of change-makers. Together, they reflect on community resilience, the significance of collective action, and the ongoing struggles for justice that resonate through art and history.
22 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 34min
Understanding Xi: Is China’s President a Threat to the World? (Part Two)
Rana Mitter, a distinguished historian from Harvard Kennedy School and former director of Oxford's China Centre, delves into the complexities of Xi Jinping's regime. He discusses Xi's militaristic posturing and geopolitical maneuvers, particularly regarding Taiwan and China's relationship with Russia. Mitter examines the purges within the Communist Party and Xi's consolidation of power, as well as the potential future landscape of China after Xi. The conversation also touches on the global implications of Xi's ideology and the West's diplomatic approach.
41 snips
May 31, 2025 • 36min
Understanding Xi: Is China’s President a Threat to the World? (Part One)
Rana Mitter, a renowned historian at Harvard Kennedy School and a former director at Oxford’s China Centre, discusses the complexities of Xi Jinping's leadership. He unpacks Xi's unique political ideology and how his confrontational style affects global diplomacy. Mitter analyzes the implications of Xi abolishing term limits and his ambitions within the Indo-Pacific. Key topics include the rise of strongman leadership globally, as well as the intricate relationship between Xi and Putin, highlighting shifting dynamics in international politics.
15 snips
May 29, 2025 • 51min
How To Cure Your Algorithm, with Jamie Bartlett
Jamie Bartlett, a journalist and author known for his insights on technology and the dark net, discusses the critical relationship between free speech and misinformation. He highlights how algorithms shape our perceptions and reinforce echo chambers, impacting democracy. Bartlett shares his personal journey reflecting on the importance of resisting propaganda. The conversation addresses the complexities of navigating tech and media, exploring the need for better content moderation and critical thinking to combat the effects of digital manipulation.
May 27, 2025 • 46min
Truth Hurts: From Conflict to Connection, with Dr Julia Ebner
Dr. Julia Ebner, a leading social cohesion researcher at Oxford, discusses the art of dialogue in our polarized world. She shares strategies for engaging with opposing views and de-escalating heated conversations. Julia emphasizes the psychological motivations behind extremist beliefs and the role of misinformation in these dynamics. Listeners learn how to manage emotions, foster understanding, and navigate the complexities of discussing sensitive topics, all aimed at creating a more empathetic and connected society.
May 25, 2025 • 53min
Tricks, Trolls, and LOLs: Comedy’s Crash Course in Spotting Lies, with Rachel Parris
Rachel Parris, an award-winning comedian known for her sharp wit on The MASH Report, dives into the power of satire as a weapon against misinformation. She discusses how humor can unveil uncomfortable truths and challenge narratives in a democracy. The conversation covers the complexities of creating political comedy while navigating sensitive subjects and public reactions. Parris also reflects on the evolving nature of audiences and the role of social media in spreading misinformation, highlighting the critical balance between entertainment and serious discourse.
17 snips
May 24, 2025 • 52min
Can we have prosperity without growth? With Tim Jackson
Tim Jackson, Professor of Sustainable Development at the University of Surrey and author of 'Prosperity Without Growth', explores whether true prosperity can exist without economic growth. He argues that prioritizing GDP harms both society and the planet, advocating for a care economy that values health and human connection. Jackson discusses the impact of modern stress on health, the evolution of health economics, and the need to shift our values towards sustainability and well-being over profit. A thought-provoking challenge to conventional economic thinking!
13 snips
May 22, 2025 • 36min
Is Your Phone Controlling Your Life? With Kaitlyn Regehr (Part Two)
Kaitlyn Regehr, a renowned professor and expert on digital literacy, dives deep into our complex relationship with smartphones and social media. She discusses the alarming impacts of early device use on children and the importance of digital literacy at home. Regehr offers insights on creating a healthy 'digital diet,' emphasizing engaging interactions over mindless scrolling. She also explores the effect of AI on communication skills and advocates for better regulation of online content to ensure a safer digital environment for future generations.
38 snips
May 20, 2025 • 34min
Is Your Phone Controlling Your Life? With Kaitlyn Regehr (Part One)
Kaitlyn Regehr, an Associate Professor of Digital Humanities at UCL and author of 'Smartphone Nation,' dives deep into our complex relationship with smartphones. She tackles the pervasive issue of screen addiction and shares strategies to foster digital literacy. The conversation uncovers how algorithms manipulate our online behavior and highlights the urgent need for critical thinking in a world dominated by digital distractions. Regehr offers practical advice for cultivating healthy tech habits for both adults and children.
35 snips
May 18, 2025 • 37min
Tariff Special: The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook with Helen Thompson (Part Two)
Helen Thompson, a globalisation expert and author of 'Disorder: Hard Times in the 21st Century', joins BBC broadcaster Jonny Dymond to delve into the turmoil of today's global economy. They discuss Trump's controversial tariffs and the chaos in U.S.-China trade relations. Thompson highlights the historical nuances of trade policies and their implications for the UK, while addressing energy transitions and the challenges of achieving net zero emissions. They also explore the generational shift in political leadership amid economic crises.
