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
May 1, 2022 • 39min
The Sunday Debate: Macron Paved the Way for Populism in France
Vincent Martigny, a Professor of Political Science, and Jean-Yves Camus, an expert in political radicalism, unpack the seismic shifts in French politics post-Macron's re-election. They explore how Macron's centrism has inadvertently paved the way for populism, bolstering figures like Marine Le Pen. The discussion touches on the erosion of traditional political parties, the rise of far-right ideologies, and the urgent need for electoral reform to address a fracturing electorate. Insightful predictions about future elections round out this compelling debate.
Apr 29, 2022 • 40min
The Psychology of Language, with Morten Christiansen and Nick Chater
In this engaging discussion, Morten Christiansen, a psychology professor at Cornell, and Nick Chater, a behavioral science expert at Warwick, dive into the fascinating world of language. They explore how our brains playfully construct language, along with its evolving nature shaped by personal experiences and technology. The duo highlights the deep connections between language, identity, and the impact of dialects, while also examining the challenges of learning languages like Danish. They emphasize the limitations of AI in understanding language, contrasting it with the richness of human communication.
Apr 28, 2022 • 49min
No Bullsh*t Leadership, with Anthony Scaramucci
In a candid conversation, Anthony Scaramucci, founder of SkyBridge Capital and former White House Communications Director, shares insights on leadership shaped by his unique experiences. He discusses the importance of resilience and accountability, recalling lessons from high-pressure environments. Scaramucci critiques political leadership, especially during the Trump era, highlighting the complexities of navigating modern politics. He also emphasizes the need for authenticity in leadership, encouraging others to embrace individuality and learn from failures.
Apr 27, 2022 • 50min
Reaching Across the Divide in US Politics, with George Packer
George Packer, a renowned journalist and author known for his impactful works in American public discourse, joins to share insights from his latest book, 'Last Best Hope.' He discusses the polarized state of U.S. politics and explores pathways to consensus, emphasizing hope and renewal. The conversation delves into the deepening inequalities in America, the evolving identities within both major parties, and the unpredictable dynamics of Trump’s potential 2024 candidacy. Packer advocates for constructive dialogue to bridge divisions in this charged political landscape.
Apr 25, 2022 • 44min
Who Are We Now? Exploring English identity, with Jason Cowley
Jason Cowley, Editor of The New Statesman and author of "Who Are We Now?", delves into the evolving nature of English identity. He discusses the impact of immigration and Brexit on national consciousness and reflects on personal stories that highlight the complexities of belonging. Cowley emphasizes the need for a more inclusive narrative of Englishness, blending patriotism with multiculturalism. The conversation also touches on poignant stories, such as that of Li Hua, showcasing the human cost of globalization.
Apr 24, 2022 • 35min
Debate: Old Testament vs New Testament
In a lively debate, Booker Prize-winning novelist Howard Jacobson and writer Anne Atkins champion the Old Testament, rich with iconic tales like Adam and Eve and Moses. Anglican priest Richard Coles makes the case for the New Testament, emphasizing the life of Jesus and its moral teachings. The discussion touches on the enduring impact of these texts on literature and culture, the intricate relationship between the two testaments, and personal journeys of faith, all offering a thought-provoking exploration of spirituality and belief.
Apr 22, 2022 • 54min
Africa Is Not A Country, with Dipo Faloyin
Dipo Faloyin, a journalist and writer at Vice, discusses his book, Africa Is Not A Country, which challenges common misconceptions about Africa's diverse cultures and identities. He highlights the continent's richness, from its 2,000 languages to its varied political landscapes. Faloyin critiques oversimplified narratives in media and underscores the importance of nuanced discussions that reflect Africa's complexities. The conversation also touches on the role of artists and the urgency of decolonizing educational curriculums to foster understanding.
Apr 21, 2022 • 31min
How to Lead a Sustainable Business, with Alannah Weston and Andy Cato
Alannah Weston speaks with Andy Cato, a Grammy-nominated musician turned regenerative farmer and co-founder of Wildfarmed. They discuss Cato's transformative journey from music to sustainable agriculture, highlighting the environmental costs of industrial farming. The conversation delves into the importance of biodiversity, consumer education on food origins, and the role of livestock in sustainable ecosystems. Together, they advocate for informed food choices and systemic changes to foster a sustainable future for agriculture.
Apr 20, 2022 • 44min
A Delicate Game: Confronting Brain Injury in Sport, with Hana Walker-Brown
Hana Walker-Brown, a multi-award-winning audio documentary maker, explores the troubling relationship between sports and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). She shares powerful stories from athletes like former rugby star Steve Thompson, who suffers from memory loss, and delves into the dangers of concussions versus sub-concussive hits. The conversation addresses the urgent need for safety protocols, the cultural barriers around acknowledging brain injuries, and the evolving perspectives on masculinity and health in sports.
Apr 18, 2022 • 59min
Putin and The Age of The Strongman, with Gideon Rachman
Gideon Rachman, Chief Foreign Affairs Columnist for the Financial Times, explores the troubling rise of strongman leaders like Putin and Xi Jinping. He discusses how they wield nationalism and enemy narratives to gain power, often manipulating truth through social media. Rachman highlights the simplistic allure of authoritarian rhetoric and examines the dangerous alliance between China and Russia. The conversation delves into historical roots and the need for vigilance against these figures that threaten democracy in today's geopolitical landscape.
