Intelligence Squared

Marietje Schaake, International Director of Policy at Stanford's Cyber Policy Centre and former European Parliament member, joins Carl Miller to discuss the critical intersection of big tech and democracy. They delve into Facebook's clash with Australia over corporate power and its implications for free speech. The conversation also covers the challenges traditional media faces against digital disruption, the EU's regulatory aspirations, and the need for transparency in tech governance. Ultimately, they emphasize protecting civil liberties in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In this discussion, Michael Mann, a prominent climatologist, and Clover Hogan, a young climate activist, tackle the ongoing battle against climate change. They explore the manipulation and misinformation that complicate action. Mann emphasizes the need for urgent and systemic solutions, while Hogan advocates for climate justice and youth empowerment. Together, they dissect how personal narratives can hinder progress and stress the importance of unifying against corporate accountability. Their hopeful vision offers a roadmap for impactful change amid eco-anxiety.

In this captivating discussion, Shola Mos-Shogbamimu, a political and women's rights activist, Nadine Strossen, a civil liberties champion and former ACLU president, and James Bosworth, a political risk expert, tackle the explosive topic of Big Tech's decision to deplatform Donald Trump. They explore the fine line between censorship and accountability, the implications for free speech in a digital age, and the potential risks to democracy posed by such actions. Their diverse viewpoints ignite a thought-provoking debate about the responsibilities of social media in shaping public discourse.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Frier, a Bloomberg journalist and author of 'No Filter,' shares insights into the meteoric rise of Instagram and its cultural impact. She discusses the app's compelling simplicity and the founders' original vision, contrasting it with Facebook's aggressive tactics post-acquisition. Frier highlights the rise of niche influencers and addresses the psychological effects on users, including anxiety and self-judgment. Her conversation with economist Linda Yueh explores Instagram's ongoing role in shaping identities and societal trends.

Mark Mardell, former BBC Europe editor, joins Philip Stephens, Financial Times political commentator. They dive into Britain's struggle with its waning global power, covering the historical context from the Suez Crisis to Brexit. Key topics include the complexities of foreign policy, the challenges of rejoining the EU, and how national identity is evolving. They also discuss Britain's nuclear deterrent and the ongoing debates over military strategy, all while reassessing the notion of 'global Britain' in a rapidly changing world.

Ian Urbina, an investigative reporter focused on human rights and the environment, joins ocean physicist Helen Czerski to explore the dark secrets of our oceans. They discuss rampant piracy, illegal fishing, and the plight of oppressed deckhands who often witness violence at sea. Urbina highlights the urgent need for effective maritime laws to combat exploitation and crime. They also dive into the innovative Outlaw Ocean Music Project, which uses music to amplify ocean conservation awareness, connecting art and activism in a compelling way.

Eliot Higgins, founder of Bellingcat, shares his incredible journey from college dropout to investigative journalism pioneer. He reveals how his team employs cutting-edge technology to expose significant global events, like the tragic downing of flight MH17 and the chemical weapon use in Syria. Higgins also discusses the high-stakes poisonings of Alexei Navalny and Sergei Skripal, illuminating how open-source intelligence connects these international incidents. The conversation delves into the ethical challenges and personal risks journalists face in the age of misinformation.

Nigel Inkster, a former MI6 intelligence chief and author of "The Great Decoupling," joins economist Linda Yueh to discuss the mounting tensions between the USA and China. They dive into the geopolitical ramifications of technological competition, highlighting the risks of decoupling in tech sectors. Inkster emphasizes the vulnerabilities the U.S. faces due to its dependence on Chinese manufacturing and the need for strategic recalibration. The conversation also touches on China's intelligence operations and the evolving global landscape, urging a collaborative approach to address rising tensions.

Join Jim Al-Khalili, a renowned professor of physics and BBC science communicator, as he delves into the essential pillars of modern physics: quantum theory, relativity, and thermodynamics. He explains why understanding these concepts is key to grasping our universe. Discover the intersection of physics and philosophy, the revolutionary future of quantum technologies, and how theoretical physics contributes to our battle against COVID-19. Al-Khalili emphasizes the importance of collaboration in science and the need to inspire curiosity in future generations.

Join leading carbon expert Mike Berners-Lee, author of "There Is No Planet B," and journalist Jenny Kleeman, as they dive into the pressing issues of climate change. They tackle how individual actions can spark larger movements, practical dietary choices for sustainability, and the importance of community-driven environmentalism. Mike explores hopeful strategies amid current crises, while Jenny highlights the impact of consumer behavior, fast fashion, and the role of religion in climate advocacy. A must-listen for anyone seeking actionable insights!