Intelligence Squared

In this engaging discussion, Azeem Azhar, a prominent writer and technologist known for his Exponential View newsletter, reveals how we're entering an Exponential Age. He highlights the growing 'exponential gap' between our fast-paced technological advancements and the slower adaptation of society. The conversation delves into future predictions for 2031, the psychological consequences of rapid change, and the challenges of the gig economy. Azeem argues for urgent regulatory reforms to ensure technology serves public interests while retaining human values.

Lionel Shriver, renowned journalist and author of 'We Need To Talk About Kevin', and Trevor Phillips, founding chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, argue that identity politics is tearing society apart. In contrast, David Lammy, a Labour MP advocating for social justice, and Dawn Foster, a Guardian columnist, defend its role in promoting equality. The discussion navigates the complexities of identity politics, examining its impact on societal cohesion and the importance of inclusive dialogue in addressing systemic inequalities.

Kai-Fu Lee, a leading AI expert and bestselling author, shares insights into the transformative potential and challenges of AI over the next two decades. He discusses his imaginative book, co-written with novelist Chen Qiufan, which envisions AI's impact on human life. Their scenarios range from teenage romances disrupted by technology to the existential threats posed by advanced AI. Lee emphasizes the ethical implications of AI, urging for transparency and a focus on user well-being, while also highlighting AI's revolutionary role in healthcare and climate action.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Charles Blow, an Op-ed columnist for the New York Times and author of 'The Devil You Know', advocates for a mass migration of Black Americans to the South to enhance their political power. He shares insights from his own move from Brooklyn to Georgia, illuminating how demographic shifts can reshape electoral outcomes. The conversation also addresses systemic racism, emotional ties to cultural roots, and the complexities of racial identity, emphasizing the urgent need for political agency and community action.

In this discussion, Lord Gus O'Donnell, former Cabinet Secretary and Head of the British Civil Service, delves into the nuances of economic growth. He explores how GDP measures health but may overlook societal well-being. O'Donnell examines Japan's post-WWII transformation and the importance of happiness alongside economic metrics. He critiques traditional GDP measurements, arguing for a broader evaluation that includes productivity and social equity. The conversation also touches on the COVID-19 pandemic's impact and the need for sustainable growth strategies.

Rana Foroohar, a global business columnist for the Financial Times, and Luke Johnson, a renowned entrepreneur, argue for the breakup of tech giants, citing their risk to democracy and consumer freedoms. On the opposite side, Elizabeth Linder, ex-head of Facebook's European division, and Professor Pinar Akman discuss the essential services these companies provide and caution against scapegoating them. The debate navigates crucial themes like data privacy, competition laws, and the evolving role of technology in our lives.

Will Storr, a bestselling author known for his insightful explorations of human behavior, dives into the fascinating world of social status. He discusses how our relentless pursuit of status can influence health and happiness, revealing that higher status often correlates with longer life. Storr examines the delicate balance between warmth and competence in social interactions, the psychological impact of humiliation, and how altruism can be intertwined with status-seeking motivations. It's a compelling look at the intricate dance of identity, fulfillment, and societal dynamics.

Salman Rushdie, an acclaimed novelist celebrated for works like "Midnight's Children," joins journalist Razia Iqbal to explore pivotal moments that shaped his life. Rushdie reflects on a silver ingot representing unpartitioned India, the evocative lyrics of Bob Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man," and the powerful prose of James Joyce’s "The Dead." He dives into themes of identity, heritage, and the complexities of cancel culture, all while discussing the enduring impact of literature in a rapidly changing world.

Peter McCormack, a journalist and podcaster focused on human rights and cryptocurrencies, joins Yaya Fanusie, a senior fellow with deep expertise in cryptocurrency's national security implications. They dive into El Salvador's bold move to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, discussing its potential to bank the unbanked. The conversation touches on economic barriers, the skepticism surrounding crypto's effectiveness, and ethical dilemmas related to Know Your Customer regulations. Their dynamic debate emphasizes the promise and peril of cryptocurrencies in emerging economies.

Michael Sandel, a Harvard professor known for his insights on political philosophy, squares off against Adrian Wooldridge, a political editor at The Economist and meritocracy expert. They delve into the complexities of meritocracy, questioning if true success is attainable in an unequal society. Discussing the ethics of standardized testing and its historical ties to eugenics, they uncover how inherited advantages skew results. The debate culminates in a call for alternative models of opportunity, emphasizing fairness and the reimagining of social justice post-pandemic.