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
19 snips
May 23, 2022 • 55min
The New Science of the Body Clock, with Russell Foster
In this engaging discussion, Professor Russell Foster, a leading expert in circadian neuroscience from the University of Oxford, dives deep into the impact of our biological clocks on health. He reveals how modern life disrupts these rhythms, contributing to mental health issues and chronic diseases. Foster debunks myths about sleep, emphasizes the importance of personalized rest, and shares practical tips for optimizing sleep quality. He also highlights the adverse effects of blue light from devices, advocating for mindful routines to enhance overall well-being.
May 22, 2022 • 1h 4min
The Sunday Debate: The Left has right on its side
Join George Monbiot, a Guardian columnist and activist, conservative philosopher Roger Scruton, Labour MP Stella Creasy, and MP Kwasi Kwarteng in a vibrant debate on the ideological clash between left and right. They tackle the hypocrisy often found in leftist claims of virtue and discuss the historical struggles of the left against wealth concentration. The conversation also dives into critiques of modern leftist thought, the implications of wealth inequality, and the necessity for political accountability and compassion in a divided society.
May 20, 2022 • 40min
No Bullsh*t Leadership, with Roula Khalaf
Roula Khalaf, the groundbreaking first female editor of the Financial Times, shares her insights into modern leadership and journalism. She discusses her journey through war-torn Beirut to leading a major publication, emphasizing empathy and open communication in leadership. Khalaf also reflects on the evolving media landscape during the pandemic and the importance of quality journalism amidst misinformation. The conversation touches on free speech issues and the complexities of managing hybrid teams, offering a nuanced perspective on the future of leadership.
May 18, 2022 • 31min
The Afghan Women Writing for Freedom, with Marie Bamyani, Zarghuna Kargar and Lucy Hannah
Join Zarghuna Kargar, a journalist and author of "Dear Zari," along with Lucy Hannah, founder of the UNTOLD writing program, as they illuminate the struggles and resilience of Afghan women writers. The discussion reveals the urgent need for supporting local literary voices, emphasizing the power of storytelling in the face of adversity. They explore the challenges of translating these poignant narratives amidst sociopolitical upheaval and highlight literature as a vital tool for cultural preservation and resistance in a repressive environment.
May 16, 2022 • 59min
How to Avert the Climate Catastrophe and a Financial Meltdown, with Eugene Linden
Eugene Linden, an esteemed author and environmental journalist, discusses his book, "Fire and Flood," revealing how U.S. governments have delayed climate action for decades. He emphasizes the heavy impact of climate change on the global economy and unpacks the ironies of the insurance industry prioritizing short-term gains over long-term sustainability. Linden shares insights from polar regions that highlight the urgent need to shift perspectives on climate change. He also advocates for innovative solutions and collaboration to avert environmental disaster.
May 15, 2022 • 60min
Is it Time to Abandon the Five-Day Work Week?
Bruce Daisley, former VP of Twitter and author, joins Elizabeth Uviebinené, a brand strategist, Karl Nicholson, Slack's executive engagement lead, and Nick Srnicek, an academic on the future of work. They debate if the five-day workweek is outdated. Topics include the push for workplace flexibility, the mental health benefits of shorter workweeks, and generational shifts in work expectations. The conversation highlights challenges in implementing change and the potential for enhancing employee satisfaction and productivity in a post-pandemic world.
May 13, 2022 • 1h 1min
How to Make Democracy Work for Everyone, with Yascha Mounk
Yascha Mounk, an expert in populism and liberal democracies, discusses the challenges of making diverse societies thrive. He explores how identity politics and group loyalty can complicate democratic cohesion, drawing from historical and contemporary examples. Mounk highlights the dual role of social media in either fostering inclusivity or spreading misinformation. He also emphasizes the need for nuanced discussions on demographic changes and the importance of empathy across communities to navigate today's complex political landscape.
May 11, 2022 • 1h 6min
The Futureverse: The World Will Be a Better Place in 5, 50 and 500 Years
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.
May 9, 2022 • 1h 2min
Ukrainians on the War in Ukraine, with Kira Rudyk, Michael Bociurkiw and Olha Poliukhovych
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.
17 snips
May 8, 2022 • 57min
The Sunday Debate: Abolish Billionaires
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.
