Intelligence Squared

Join Shakespeare scholar James Shapiro and Milton expert Nigel Smith as they passionately debate the merits of their literary icons. Harriet Walter, Pippa Nixon, and Samuel West bring the dialogue to life with engaging performances from both authors. They explore themes of ambition, power, and the emotional complexity of characters, particularly in relation to Shakespeare’s nuanced narratives versus Milton’s profound philosophical inquiries. The debate ignites conversations on love, betrayal, and the rich legacies of these monumental figures in literature.

Chef Yotam Ottolenghi, a culinary innovator known for his best-selling cookbooks, shares his journey from Jerusalem to the world stage. He reminisces about his family’s vibrant culinary traditions and the transformative power of food. Yotam discusses his collaboration with Palestinian chef Sami Tamimi, highlighting how shared backgrounds inspire creativity. Reflecting on identity, he candidly navigates his experiences as a gay man in Israel, revealing how cooking became a vital family bonding activity during the pandemic. Authenticity and personal expression are at the heart of his delicious creations.

Hallie Rubenhold, an author and historian known for uncovering the hidden stories of marginalized women, joins medieval historian Dan Jones for an engaging discussion. They explore the often-overlooked contributions of women in military history and the impacts of narrative biases. The conversation emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in historical storytelling, advocating for a broader representation of women's voices. They also address how educators can revise curricula to better reflect these diverse perspectives, ultimately reshaping how we understand the past.

Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, shares his inspiring journey from India to leading a tech giant. He discusses the evolution of Microsoft and the importance of empathy in leadership. Nadella addresses the balance between trust and technology, highlighting AI's positive impacts, like aiding those with visual impairments. He emphasizes the need for inclusive tech standards, bridging the digital divide, and fostering equity within capitalism. Additionally, he explores advancements in mixed reality and the cooperative future of tech innovation.

Join historian Simon Schama and novelist Tracey Chevalier as they passionately debate two titans of Dutch art: Rembrandt and Vermeer. Schama argues for Rembrandt’s raw emotional humanity and societal depth, while Chevalier admires Vermeer’s enchanting, dreamlike scenes. They dive into their contrasting artistic philosophies, exploring how personal struggles influenced Rembrandt's emotive works, compared to Vermeer’s magical compositions. The conversation extends to the significance of spirituality in their art and their legacies that continue to inspire.

Peter Frankopan, a Professor of Global History at Oxford and author of influential works like "The Silk Roads," joins historian Simon Sebag Montefiore for an engaging discussion. They explore the intersection of historical perspectives and contemporary global issues, emphasizing the need to move beyond Western-centric views. Frankopan analyzes humanity's apocalyptic obsessions amid today's geopolitical tensions and climate crises. The conversation also tackles the resilience of authoritarian regimes versus the adaptability of democracies in a rapidly changing world.

Fatima Bhutto, a journalist and novelist, shares her powerful journey shaped by political turmoil and familial tragedy. She delves into her family's legacy in Pakistani politics, including the grief of losing her outspoken father to assassination. Bhutto reflects on the corrosive nature of power and discusses her complicated feelings towards her aunt, Benazir Bhutto. Through personal stories, she reveals how these experiences inspired her creative writing, touching on identity, radicalization, and the promise of youth in Pakistan.

Ian Livingstone, a businessman, discusses the British economy's recovery challenges post-COVID. Dr. Dambisa Moyo, a global economist, talks about international growth perspectives amid the pandemic. Lord King, former Governor of the Bank of England, shares insights on necessary monetary policies. They delve into the importance of government-business collaboration, the impact of Brexit on labor markets, and the need for innovative investments to address urgent global issues like climate change. Together, they brainstorm strategies for a resilient economic future.

Vladimir Pozner, a renowned Russian journalist, and Domitilla Sagramoso, a security expert from King's College, argue for improved ties with Russia. They delve into the historical and societal connections that could foster global stability. In contrast, Michael Hayden, former CIA director, and Polish politician Radek Sikorski warn of the risks of rapprochement, citing military threats and political dynamics. The discussion navigates the effectiveness of sanctions and the potential for collaboration in a tense geopolitical landscape.

Janine di Giovanni, a seasoned journalist and author, has covered major conflicts for over 30 years. In conversation with Dr. Lina Khatib, they delve into di Giovanni's new book, focusing on the plight of Christians in the Middle East. Topics include the historical and current persecution these communities face, the impact of climate change and conflict, and the resilience of faith in Gaza and Egypt. They also discuss disillusionment in the region and the urgent need for global support to protect vulnerable populations.