Intelligence Squared

Dr. Gwen Adshead, a leading forensic psychiatrist with three decades of experience, discusses the complexities surrounding violent crime and rehabilitation. She challenges societal perceptions of evil, emphasizing the importance of understanding the psychological impact of childhood trauma on offenders. The conversation dives into gender dynamics in violence, the mental health crises in prisons, and the transformative power of therapy for rehabilitation. Through compelling examples, Adshead invites us to see beyond stigma and embrace empathy in addressing these critical issues.

Max Brooks, global bestselling author known for 'World War Z,' joins Carl Miller to delve into disaster preparedness in today's society. They discuss the fragility of modern comforts and the dire need for community resilience, referencing Brooks' novel 'Devolution.' The conversation covers practical survival strategies, the failures in pandemic responses, and the vital role of informed consumers in shaping leadership. With engaging storytelling, Brooks illustrates the lessons of resilience learned from his own experiences, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility.

Stacey Abrams, a prominent political leader and author, discusses her thrilling new novel, which dives into political and judicial power dynamics. Joined by acclaimed novelist Tayari Jones, they explore the intersection of ambition and responsibility, drawing parallels between chess strategy and life choices. The duo also reflects on the role of imagination in nurturing future generations and addresses the complexities of the U.S. Constitution. With a nod to the impact of conspiracy theories on governance, they emphasize the importance of lifelong learning.

In this engaging discussion, Nani Jansen Reventlow, a human rights lawyer and digital freedom advocate, faces off against Rowena Luk, a digital health consultant and former tech executive. They dive into whether big data's role during the pandemic has been beneficial or a dangerous power grab. Key topics include the ethical implications of data usage, privacy concerns, and the necessity for equitable approaches in public health. Both guests emphasize the importance of transparency and the need to protect marginalized communities amidst the digital evolution.

In this engaging discussion, Adrian Wooldridge, an economist and political editor known for his insights on talent and societal structure, joins Mark Mardell to explore the complexities of meritocracy. They dive into its historical roots and the modern challenges it faces, questioning whether the system truly serves fairness. The conversation touches on the erosion of the American Dream, the impact of socio-economic status on educational opportunities, and the implications of assortative mating on inequality. Wooldridge argues for reforming meritocracy while preserving its core ideals.

Gillian Tett, a Financial Times journalist and bestselling author with a PhD in anthropology, discusses how anthropological insights can enhance our understanding of business and life. She shares transformative experiences from her time in Tajikistan, emphasizing cultural context in consumer behavior. Tett also tackles the ethical implications of data usage in journalism and explores lessons from the pandemic, urging individuals to embrace their inner anthropologists to navigate societal changes and cultural contrasts.

Kenneth Cukier and Viktor Mayer-Schönberger, esteemed authors and thought leaders, discuss the transformative power of 'framing' in understanding modern issues. They illustrate how different perspectives can lead to vastly different conclusions, using examples from technology and the COVID-19 pandemic. The duo argues that rethinking our frames can enhance decision-making while addressing challenges like climate change and social justice. They also touch on fostering pluralism in media and collaboration in creativity, emphasizing the importance of innovative thought in the 21st century.

Join Ed Miliband, a seasoned politician and host of the 'Reasons to be Cheerful' podcast, as he explores how the pandemic can inspire a better world. He discusses innovative solutions to critical issues like climate change, housing, and inequality, emphasizing the need for bold ideas and courage to implement them. Miliband also advocates for empowering democracy through citizen assemblies and reimagining measures of success beyond GDP. His insights challenge us to think big and collaborate for a brighter future.

In this engaging discussion, Salman Rushdie, an acclaimed author renowned for works like "Midnight's Children," explores the vital relationship between storytelling and truth. He reflects on literary influences from figures like Shakespeare to Toni Morrison, emphasizing their impact on identity and culture. Rushdie also tackles serious issues like the erosion of free speech in India and the complexities of cancel culture. His insights on contemporary politics and freedom of expression highlight the ongoing struggle artists face in maintaining their voice amidst challenges.

Join Carlo Rovelli, a bestselling theoretical physicist, and Philip Pullman, the award-winning author of His Dark Materials, as they weave together science and storytelling. Rovelli shares the transformative ideas stemming from Heisenberg's work on quantum theory, discussing its implications for our understanding of reality and consciousness. They explore the interconnectedness of all things and reflect on how solitude inspires creativity. The duo emphasizes the role of inquiry in shaping narratives and the legacy of both science and literature.