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 5, 2022 • 1h 6min
The Sunday Debate: Blame Liberals For the Rise of Populism
Daniel Hannan, a notable Brexit campaigner, joins Elif Shafak, an acclaimed novelist from Turkey, and John Simpson, the BBC's World Affairs editor, for a compelling discussion. They tackle the question of whether liberal policies have fueled populism, dissecting high immigration, multiculturalism, and populist narratives. The conversation dives into the disconnect between elites and the working class, the emotional roots of populism, and the need for liberals to engage with genuine grievances in today’s complex political landscape.
Jun 3, 2022 • 42min
The Joy of Science, with Jim Al-Khalili
Join the insightful Jim Al-Khalili, a theoretical physicist and popular science communicator, as he explores the intersection of science and everyday life. He discusses Plato's allegory of the cave, emphasizing the journey from ignorance to knowledge. The conversation delves into the challenges of misinformation in the digital age and the importance of scientific literacy. Al-Khalili shares his experiences bridging science with personal beliefs and highlights the enriching joy that scientific discovery brings to understanding our universe.
Jun 1, 2022 • 53min
Who is the Real Xi Jinping? With Kerry Brown
Kerry Brown, a leading expert in Chinese studies and author of "Xi: A Study in Power," delves into the enigmatic figure of Xi Jinping. He explores Xi's unconventional rise within the Communist Party and his anti-corruption campaign, which has reshaped Chinese political dynamics. The discussion touches on Xi's impact on national identity and the implications of his leadership amid growing authoritarianism. Brown also examines the intricacies of Xi's persona and relationships, revealing the complicated web of China's future under his governance.
May 30, 2022 • 41min
The Crimes of History, with Linda Kinstler and Peter Pomerantsev
Linda Kinstler, an American journalist and author of "Come to This Court and Cry," delves into her family's dark past involving her grandfather's role in the Holocaust. In conversation with Peter Pomerantsev, they explore tough questions about historical accountability and the nature of memory. The discussion extends to the cyclical nature of conflict, with parallels drawn to Russia's current war on Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and justice in addressing historical atrocities.
May 29, 2022 • 1h 3min
The Sunday Debate: Chinese Investment Is Good for Africa
Nkosana Moyo, former Vice President of the African Development Bank, and Stephen Chan, Professor at SOAS University, dive into the complex dynamics of Chinese investment in Africa. They discuss how China’s $23 billion investment has created both opportunities and challenges, emphasizing the need for informed negotiations and clearer regulations. Cultural missteps by Chinese firms and concerns over national security and autonomy are brought to light. The conversation ultimately advocates for African nations to take responsibility for their development and navigate foreign engagement mindfully.
May 27, 2022 • 57min
Mental Health: Hope and Healing With Horatio Clare and Alex Riley
This discussion delves into personal journeys with mental health, focusing on depression and psychosis. Listeners hear about the impact of stress and the role of inflammation in mental wellness. The speakers advocate for a more empathetic and holistic approach to treatment. They explore societal stigma and the need for open conversations about mental health. Their experiences underscore the importance of connection and creative expression in healing. A thought-provoking mix of personal narrative and scientific insight keeps the dialogue engaging.
May 25, 2022 • 47min
Otherlands: A Journey Into Our Planet’s Deep Past, with Thomas Halliday
Palaeobiologist Thomas Halliday, author of 'Otherlands', takes listeners on a mesmerizing journey through Earth's evolution over 500 million years. He discusses the unique ecosystems of ancient landscapes, like the Pangaea era, revealing paleontological discoveries, including early evidence of cancer. Halliday also delves into the origins of sexual reproduction, the evolution of animal eyes, and how ancient flora shaped our atmosphere. With lighthearted moments like 'monkey boats', he ties past ecological shifts to current climate challenges.
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.
