Intelligence Squared

Ashley Jackson, co-director at the Center for the Study of Armed Groups, brings a wealth of expertise on Afghanistan to the conversation. She dives into the complex dynamics of civilian life under Taliban rule, revealing how ordinary people influence the insurgent's behavior. The talk sheds light on the Taliban's evolving strategies and the morally gray areas civilians navigate. Jackson also discusses women's rights in the current climate and the urgent humanitarian dilemmas faced post-Taliban takeover, emphasizing the need for informed international engagement.

Laxman Narasimhan, CEO of Reckitt and former senior leader at PepsiCo and McKinsey, shares his insights on connecting with employees in a vast global organization. He emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adapting leadership styles to various environments. Narasimhan discusses overcoming early challenges in his career, the importance of mentorship, and the transformative lessons gained during his time at PepsiCo, especially amid the pandemic. He also reflects on how failures can lead to personal growth and the evolving dynamics of corporate leadership.

In this lively debate, literary experts John Mullan, a Dickens authority, and historian Simon Schama champion Tolstoy. They explore the deep legacies of both authors with engaging readings. Personal anecdotes reveal how Dickens shaped their lives, contrasting comedy and tragedy in storytelling. Mullan dives into Dickens' unique portrayal of childhood, while Schama highlights emotional complexities in relationships like those between Pip and Estella. The discussion also humorously touches on financial wisdom woven through Dickensian narratives, showcasing the timeless relevance of their works.

In this engaging conversation, Victoria Prew, CEO of Hurr and the UK’s first peer-to-peer fashion rental platform, shares insights into revolutionizing the fashion industry. She discusses the concept of the 'guilt-free' shopping model and how technology drives the circular economy. Victoria emphasizes the importance of sustainability amid fashion's evolving landscape, tackling challenges in supply chains and consumer engagement. With a focus on inclusivity and innovation, she underscores the need for businesses to adapt to new consumer demands for sustainable practices.

Lyn Alden, a financial analyst and founder of Lyn Alden Investment Strategy, joins Alex De Vries, founder of Digiconomist, to debate the environmental impact of cryptocurrency. They discuss the staggering energy consumption of Bitcoin, equating it to Sweden's annual use, and explore misconceptions around its carbon footprint. Alden argues for the renewable strides made by crypto, while De Vries critiques the heavy reliance on fossil fuels. They also delve into the evolution of Ethereum and the potential for sustainable mining practices, leaving listeners questioning the future of digital assets.

In this week's episode of the Sunday debate we go back to 2019. In the aftermath of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul we brought together leading experts to debate how the West should respond to the abrasive crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/intelligencesquared.  See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sarfraz Manzoor, a prominent journalist and author, joins Ros Urwin to unravel the complexities of Muslim and non-Muslim relations in Britain. They discuss pervasive stereotypes and the misunderstandings that fuel division. Manzoor shares personal anecdotes and reveals the nuanced realities behind challenges like integration, cultural identity, and societal perceptions of Islam. He advocates for empathy and dialogue, showcasing a more hopeful, inclusive narrative that counters misconceptions, particularly regarding women in Islam and immigrant motivations.

In a lively debate, Anthony Scaramucci, the founder of SkyBridge Capital who champions Bitcoin, faces off against Peter Schiff, an economist and gold advocate. They tackle if Bitcoin or gold holds more value amid economic uncertainty post-COVID-19. The conversation dives into the volatility of Bitcoin compared to gold's historical reliability, the legitimacy issues surrounding cryptocurrency, and the influence of large Bitcoin investors or 'whales' on market dynamics. Audience participation spices up the spirited exchange!

In a fiery debate, former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf and former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Colleen Graffy argue that the War on Terror was justified in response to 9/11, discussing the dire need to combat Al-Qaeda. Meanwhile, former French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner and former UK UN representative Jeremy Greenstock counter, questioning the long-term effectiveness and moral implications of military actions. The conversation delves into the unintended consequences of such strategies, the complexity of terrorism, and the critical role of civil society in fostering peace.

Shabnam Nasimi, a British-Afghan activist dedicated to Afghan rights, shares her emotional turmoil to see the Taliban regain power. Shadi Hamid, a Brookings Institution fellow, discusses the broader geopolitical fallout of the U.S. withdrawal, raising concerns about America’s commitment to global leadership. Jeremy Bowen, the BBC’s Middle East editor, examines how this impacts international relations, particularly with allies like the EU and Taiwan. The conversation reflects on urgent action for Afghan refugees, emphasizing the need for ongoing global support amidst rising despair.