Intelligence Squared

Consultant neurologist Guy Leschziner shares insights on our sensory experiences, diving deep into the fascinating world of perception. He introduces captivating cases, like a man who literally tastes words and a woman who sees music as colors. The discussion touches on synesthesia, sensory deprivation, and the powerful link between smell and emotion, especially in light of COVID-19. Leschziner also highlights how individual differences in sensory processing shape our realities, urging a reevaluation of societal attitudes toward perceptual disabilities.

Eyal Press, an American journalist and author of "Dirty Work: Essential Jobs and the Hidden Toll of Inequality," joins journalist Rosamund Urwin to delve into the 'dirty work' that society often overlooks. They discuss the moral dilemmas faced by roles like military drone operators and industrial slaughterhouse managers, shedding light on the psychological toll these jobs inflict. The conversation also highlights systemic issues in prisons and the ethical complexities within the food supply chain, urging a re-examination of our perceptions of marginalized labor.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Jamie Bartlett, a tech writer and podcast host; Margaret Hodge, a veteran Labour MP; and David Babbs, an online safety campaigner, dive deep into the pressing issue of internet safety. They explore the balance between online anonymity and accountability, dissect personal experiences of online abuse, and tackle the complexities of misinformation in today's digital landscape. Each guest brings unique insights on how to protect users while preserving freedom of expression in an increasingly toxic online world.

Andrea Elliott, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and investigative reporter for The New York Times, shares her insights on the life of Dasani Coates, a resilient child navigating homelessness in Brooklyn. The conversation highlights the stark wealth gap in America and the family’s emotional struggles. Topics of systemic racism in child welfare, the impact of gentrification, and the psychological toll of poverty on children are discussed. Elliott also emphasizes the need for empathy in healthcare and the importance of policy change to address these issues.

Mark Galeotti, Honorary Professor at UCL and expert on security studies, dives into the evolution of warfare today, exploring the rise of hybrid tactics exemplified by Russia's actions in Ukraine. He discusses how traditional conflicts are yielding to low-level, undeclared wars, driven by political and economic factors. Galeotti also highlights the emerging battlefields of technology, such as the metaverse, and examines the ethical dilemmas of disinformation in modern geopolitics. Accompanied by Carl Miller, they dissect the complex interplay between power dynamics and organized crime.

Herman Narula, CEO and co-founder of Improbable, has been pioneering virtual worlds since 2012 for sectors like defense and gaming. He discusses the metaverse as a transformative space for business, blending virtual and real-life interactions. The conversation also tackles the need for equitable governance and the psychological impacts of disinformation within these digital realms. Narula emphasizes the importance of community participation and the balance between decentralization and centralization for a positive future in the metaverse.

Laura McAllister, a prominent Professor of Public Policy and former captain of the Wales national women’s football team, joins sports historian Fred Frommer to explore the complexities of sports boycotts. They discuss the effectiveness of diplomatic boycotts during the Beijing Winter Olympics, delving into historical examples like South Africa's and the 1980 Moscow Games. The conversation also highlights the evolving role of athletes as activists and questions whether isolation truly fosters political reform.

Megan Nolan, an acclaimed novelist and journalist known for her debut novel, 'Acts of Desperation,' joins fellow journalist Bella Mackie for a captivating conversation. They explore the psychological struggles in toxic relationships and the emotional depths of their writing. The duo candidly discuss themes of intimacy, self-identity, and the societal perceptions surrounding women seeking attention. Nolan reflects on the balance between creative integrity and personal sacrifices while navigating the evolving landscape of female complexity in literature.

Kimberly Jones, an author and activist known for her work on civil rights and systemic racism, engages in a powerful conversation with Alvin Hall, a financial educator and broadcaster. They discuss the significant economic struggles faced by Black communities and the historical context behind these issues. Jones shares insights from her viral speech and book on fostering community solidarity and activism. They explore personal narratives and the transformative power of grassroots movements in the quest for equity, emphasizing the importance of joy and resilience in advocacy.

Naomi Stanford, an expert in organizational design, has guided major companies like British Airways and shaped workflows for governments. She discusses the shift in workforce dynamics post-pandemic, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and open communication. Naomi uses 'Don't Look Up' to explore power dynamics in organizations and contrasts the flexibility of private sectors with the political challenges in government. She highlights the importance of recognizing global trends to improve organizational effectiveness and leadership.