Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared is the home of lively debate and deep-dive discussion. Follow Intelligence Squared wherever you get your podcasts and enjoy four regular episodes per week taking you to the heart of the issues that matter in the company of the world’s great minds. We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be. Send us an email or voice note with your thoughts to podcasts@intelligencesquared.com or Tweet us @intelligence2. And if you’d like to support our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations, as well as ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content, early access and much more, become a supporter of Intelligence Squared today. Just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 16, 2021 • 59min
Is Mass Migration Making the World a Better Place?
Felix Marquardt, an Austrian-American writer and author of "The New Nomads," argues that migration is a fundamental part of the human experience, essential for empowerment and education. In contrast, David Goodhart, a journalist and author, highlights the risks of mass migration, like brain drain and cultural dislocation. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on perceptions of migration, the ineffectiveness of traditional global forums, and the balance between nationalism and internationalism, urging deeper understanding in this complex issue.
Jul 13, 2021 • 46min
The Truth about Fake News, with Marcus Gilroy-Ware and Richard Seymour
Marcus Gilroy-Ware, a senior lecturer in digital journalism and author, joins Richard Seymour to explore the intricate ties between fake news and democracy. They discuss how misinformation arises from deeper societal issues, especially during pivotal moments like the Trump election. The conversation critiques the over-reliance on technology for solutions, and how journalism struggles to maintain credibility in a polarized world. They also dive into the commodification of attention on social media, revealing its impact on truth and public discourse.
Jul 9, 2021 • 58min
The Ever-Changing Brain with David Eagleman and Brian Eno
David Eagleman, a leading neuroscientist known for his work on brain plasticity, chats with musician Brian Eno about the remarkable adaptability of the human brain. They delve into how sensory experiences can be enhanced through technology, allowing the blind to 'see' with their tongues. The conversation also touches on the relationship between dreaming and sensory functions, and how our emotions, like love and heartbreak, intertwine with neuroscience, challenging the notion that aging diminishes cognitive abilities.
Jul 6, 2021 • 38min
Race and Guns in a Divided America, with Carol Anderson and Mark Mardell
In this discussion, historian Carol Anderson, the Charles Howard Candler Professor of African American Studies at Emory University, joins Mark Mardell to reflect on her book, The Second. They explore the complex interplay between the Second Amendment and the rights of Black Americans. From historical injustices in gun ownership laws to tragic events like the Elaine massacre, they reveal how systemic racism has shaped the narrative around the right to bear arms. The conversation also touches on modern legislation and its implications for racial dynamics in America.
Jul 4, 2021 • 49min
The Sunday Debate: The Catholic Church is a Force For Good in the World
In a provocative debate, actor and commentator Stephen Fry goes head-to-head with journalist Christopher Hitchens against Archbishop John Onaiyekan and former MP Ann Widdecombe. They tackle the Catholic Church's historical flaws and its modern moral authority. The archbishop argues for the Church's humanitarian contributions, while Hitchens critiques its stances on LGBTQ+ rights and gender roles. The conversation also sheds light on the Church’s role in social issues, concluding with a surprising shift in audience sentiment on its overall impact.
Jul 2, 2021 • 53min
Albums that Changed My Life, with Tom Gatti, David Mitchell and Preti Taneja
In this conversation, writer and activist Preti Taneja, along with journalist Tom Gatti and acclaimed novelist David Mitchell, delve into the transformative power of music. They share how albums like Joni Mitchell's 'Blue' and A Tribe Called Quest's 'Midnight Marauders' shaped their identities. Gatti confesses his obsession with Radiohead’s 'The Bends.' The trio explores the deep emotional resonance of music and its influence on their writing, illustrating the unforgettable connections between sound and storytelling.
Jun 29, 2021 • 1h 2min
Emma Dabiri and Alex Renton on Race, Reckoning and What We Can Do Next
Emma Dabiri, an Irish-Nigerian academic and broadcaster, and Alex Renton, a British-Canadian investigative journalist, tackle the pressing issues of race, privilege, and colonial legacies. They explore the enduring impact of slavery on society and discuss actionable steps for combating systemic racism. Delving into the complexities of whiteness and its history, they advocate for genuine allyship and coalition-building. Emphasizing the intersection of race and capitalism, they urge continuous learning and solidarity in the fight against racial division.
Jun 25, 2021 • 38min
The Devil You Know, with Dr Gwen Adshead and Linda Yueh
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.
Jun 22, 2021 • 34min
Surviving Disaster, with Max Brooks and Carl Miller
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.
Jun 18, 2021 • 50min
While Justice Sleeps, with Stacey Abrams and Tayari Jones
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.
