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
Feb 8, 2022 • 1h 1min
Adapting to the New World of War, with Mark Galeotti
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.
Feb 7, 2022 • 39min
Business Weekly: Into the Metaverse, with Herman Narula
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.
Feb 6, 2022 • 39min
The Sunday Debate: Sports Boycotts Help No One
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.
Feb 4, 2022 • 55min
Megan Nolan on Acts of Desperation
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.
Feb 1, 2022 • 1h 2min
How We Can Win: Kimberly Jones and Alvin Hall in conversation
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.
Jan 31, 2022 • 32min
Business Weekly: How to design a company, with Dr Naomi Stanford
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.
Jan 30, 2022 • 52min
The Sunday Debate: The West Should Work With the Taliban
Shabnam Nasimi, a Policy Advisor to the UK Minister of Afghan Resettlement and Director of Afghan Witness, joins Christina Lamb OBE, a seasoned foreign correspondent. They tackle the complex question of Western engagement with the Taliban. Discussing the dire humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, they emphasize the urgent need for aid amidst severe economic hardships. The conversation also explores the internal divisions within the Taliban and the ethical implications of providing support while avoiding formal recognition of the regime.
Jan 28, 2022 • 48min
Myth and Legend Reimagined: Charlotte Higgins and Dr Amy Jeffs in conversation
Dr. Amy Jeffs, an art historian and writer known for her book *Storyland*, joins Charlotte Higgins, a Guardian journalist and author of *Greek Myths*, to explore the modern retelling of ancient myths. They discuss how new interpretations of myths emphasize female perspectives and highlight strong characters often overlooked. The conversation moves through the blending of history and legend, the impact of storytelling during cultural upheaval, and the deep connections between landscapes and the stories we cherish.
Jan 25, 2022 • 1h 2min
Standoff in Ukraine: Fiona Hill on the politics that led to a crisis
Fiona Hill, a respected foreign policy expert and advisor to three U.S. presidents, dives into the Ukraine crisis, tracing the roots of U.S.-Russia tensions. She reflects on her journey from working-class Bishop Auckland to influencing global policy. Hill connects the rise of populism in the U.S. and Russia to socio-economic disparities, emphasizing democracy's fragility. Her insights on NATO's response and the enduring struggle for Ukrainian sovereignty provide a critical perspective on current geopolitical tensions.
Jan 24, 2022 • 49min
Business Weekly: Connecting the Dots, with Dr Christian Busch
Dive into the world of chance and opportunity with Dr. Christian Busch, who reveals how to create good luck in business. Discover how serendipity can spark innovation, with examples like the unexpected success of Viagra. Explore the delicate balance between luck and privilege, especially for those from challenged backgrounds. Learn innovative community development strategies that utilize social capital. Finally, understand how intentional actions can cultivate serendipity for a more fulfilling life.
