Intelligence Squared

Mo Gawdat, an Egyptian tech entrepreneur and former chief business officer at Google X, discusses his new book, "Scary Smart," revealing the potential dangers of super-intelligent AI. He emphasizes the need for responsible digital parenting, urging us to foster positive interactions that shape AI learning. Gawdat also delves into the philosophical debates surrounding AI's consciousness and the necessity of transparency in big tech. Listeners are encouraged to recognize their individual power to drive societal change while navigating the dual nature of technology.

Join Keith Anderson, CEO of Scottish Power, and Dieter Helm, Professor of Energy Policy at Oxford, as they tackle the pressing issues surrounding COP26. They discuss whether this summit can truly turn the tide on climate change, facing skepticism on its potential impact and the rising carbon emissions despite past agreements. The conversation pushes for a bottom-up approach, highlighting the importance of individual consumption and corporate responsibility. With China and major emitters in focus, the duo explores how innovative solutions and collective action are vital for genuine progress.

Isabel Hilton, founder of China Dialogue and a pioneer in environmental journalism, joins Akshat Rathi, Bloomberg's climate and energy expert. They dive into the crucial discussions at COP26, emphasizing the need for cooperation from powerhouses like China and the US. The guests explore the challenges of meeting climate goals, the importance of financial aid for developing nations, and the intricacies of carbon markets. They analyze the potential outcomes of COP26, from ambitious targets to the impact of coal pledges amid an ongoing energy crisis.

Mary Beard, a renowned classicist from Cambridge, dives into the shifting representations of power through art in her latest discussion. She examines how ancient Roman emperors like Augustus and Nero mirror contemporary politics and culture. Beard unpacks the complexities behind the images of power, including the roles of women in historical narratives. The conversation also touches on modern obsessions with statues and how these figures reflect societal values, highlighting the enduring implications of artistic representation on our understanding of authority.

Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, shares his entrepreneurial journey, revealing insights from creating Virgin Airlines to navigating the challenges of the music industry. He discusses the thrilling ambitions behind Virgin Galactic's space tourism and reflects on the bold marketing stunts that put his companies against giants like Coca-Cola. Branson also touches on the implications of privatization in healthcare and offers critical views on Brexit, emphasizing the need for resilience in business and social responsibility.

Kehinde Andrews, a Black Studies professor, argues passionately for reparations, highlighting the need for historical acknowledgment and healing. Esther Stanford-Xosei, a reparations activist, supports this view, emphasizing collective responsibility. On the opposing side, Katharine Birbalsingh warns that reparations might exacerbate social tensions, advocating for empowerment instead. Tony Sewell reinforces self-reliance, drawing lessons from Ethiopia's success. The discussion navigates complex moral, historical, and social implications, leaving listeners to ponder the future of reparative justice.

Olivette Otele, a prominent historian and author, sheds light on the overlooked history of Africans in Europe, tracing their presence back centuries. She discusses the lives of historical figures like Roman Emperor Septimius Severus, and the impacts of colonialism on identity. Otele emphasizes the importance of reclaiming Black narratives and the challenges of recognizing women's contributions. The conversation also tackles the legacy of racism, the Colston statue controversy, and the importance of understanding this history for future movements like Black Lives Matter.

Patrick Radden Keefe, an award-winning writer and author of *Empire of Pain*, joins FT’s global pharmaceutical correspondent, Hannah Kuchler. They delve into the Sackler family’s dark legacy tied to the opioid crisis, unraveling their role in promoting OxyContin. Keefe shares insights from his investigative research, exposing corruption and the chilling impact on public health. The discussion spans the ethics of billionaire philanthropy, the Sackler’s influence on art and activism, and the erosion of trust in the healthcare system due to their actions.

In this engaging conversation, Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia and the innovative WT.Social, shares his insights on modern leadership and the digital age. He critiques business jargon and discusses the importance of clear communication. Wales emphasizes embracing failure as a pathway to success and examines cultural differences in startup attitudes between Silicon Valley and Europe. The chat also explores the impact of emerging technologies, especially 5G, on business innovation, highlighting the need for critical thinking in today's information landscape.

Join Martin Wolf, a global economics commentator, Keyu Jin, an expert on China's economy, and former British Foreign Secretary Sir Malcolm Rifkind as they unpack the pressing question: Is China a friend or foe? They explore the diverging values between China and the West, the complexities of China's economic landscape, and the implications of geopolitical tensions. The discussion also highlights youth aspirations versus nationalism in China and the need for a balanced, pragmatic approach to engaging with this superpower amid rising global stakes.