Intelligence Squared

Springing into action, Primavera De Filippi, a legal expert on blockchain at Harvard, teams up with Vit Jedlička, President of Liberland, to envision a decentralized governance model. Jamie Bartlett dives into the social implications of blockchain, while skeptic David Gerard questions its financial promises. They explore the environmental costs of cryptocurrency, the challenges of regulation, and the potential for blockchain to revolutionize voting systems, all while debating whether it’s a groundbreaking innovation or merely tech hype.

Francis Fukuyama, the American political scientist famous for his 'end of history' thesis, debates with British philosopher John Gray, who challenges the notion of universal liberal progress. They discuss how liberalism faces significant threats from both political extremes and explore Russia's difficulties in becoming a democracy after the Cold War. The conversation dives into the implications of the Ukraine crisis, the risks of concentrated power in governance, and evolving challenges like nationalism and identity politics.

Nick Higham, a renowned journalist and author, dives deep into the fascinating world of London's water supply and its historical significance. He discusses the intense competition for water resources and the transformative role of pioneers like Joseph Bazalgette in sanitation. Higham shares insights about the Thames River's pollution issues and the costly Thames Tideway Tunnel project. He also reflects on the broader implications of privatization and the literary significance of waterways, making listeners reconsider their everyday relationship with this precious resource.

In this engaging discussion, Sally Hayden, an award-winning journalist and Africa Correspondent for The Irish Times, shares insights from her impactful book on the refugee crisis. She highlights the contrasting support for Ukrainian refugees compared to those from North Africa and the Middle East. Hayden illuminates the dire conditions in Libyan detention centers, the complexities of migration politics, and the emotional toll on refugees. She also addresses the responsibilities of wealthier nations in fostering empathy and support for all displaced individuals.

Join experts Professor Nigel Brandon, a sustainable energy authority from Imperial College London, Barry Carruthers, ScottishPower's Hydrogen Director, and Fiona Harvey, The Guardian's environmental correspondent, as they dive into the hydrogen debate. They explore whether hydrogen is a true game-changer or just hype. Discussions unveil its potential as a clean energy source, the importance of production methods, and the balance between optimism and skepticism in addressing climate issues. They also tackle the challenges of scalability and public acceptance.

Laurie Penny, a journalist and author renowned for her insights on social justice and gender, dives into her latest work about the intersections of the sexual revolution and modern fascism. She advocates for an intersectional feminism that addresses critical issues like rape culture and consent. The conversation critiques traditional masculinity and its ties to capitalism while exploring healthier alternatives. Penny also examines the complexities surrounding online pornography and urges a deeper understanding of men's privilege in today’s world.

Journalists Javier Blas and Jack Farchy dive into how commodity trading shapes global finance, especially in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. They discuss the pivotal role of giants like Glencore and Trafigura, whose influence extends into geopolitics. The conversation reveals the complexity of adapting to sanctions and the emerging power dynamics between nations. Highlighting China's strategic grip on electric vehicle battery materials, they question the West's inaction and explore the shifting landscape of global energy reliance.

Oliver Bullough, a bestselling investigative journalist known for his work on kleptocracy, delves into how Britain has become a haven for oligarchs and global billionaires. He discusses the historical transition from empire to a financial hub, spotlighting the rise of tax havens like the British Virgin Islands. Bullough critiques the UK government's inadequate responses to tackling economic crimes, examines the effectiveness of sanctions, and explores the troubling societal disparities created by the power of oligarchs.

Mehdi Hassan, a journalist and broadcaster at Al Jazeera, argues passionately that Iran shouldn't be seen as the West's enemy. Azadeh Moaveni, an NYU London lecturer, supports this view, emphasizing Iran's complex role in global politics. In contrast, Salman al-Ansari, a Saudi political analyst, highlights Iran's human rights issues and ties to terrorism. The debate explores U.S.-Iran relations, the impact of sanctions, and the vital need for engagement over hostility, offering fresh insights on a nuanced geopolitical landscape.

In this insightful discussion, philosopher Lewis Gordon, head of the Philosophy Department at the University of Connecticut, teams up with Paul Gilroy, a leading theorist of race and founder of UCL's Sarah Parker Remond Centre. They explore the multifaceted nature of black consciousness and identity, emphasizing the intersection of culture, philosophy, and activism. Key topics include the irony in power dynamics, the cultural significance of black music, and the impact of films like 'Black Panther' on societal narratives. Their conversation urges a deeper reflection on the complexities of black identity and the need for radical democracy.