Intelligence Squared

Susan Liautaud, an ethics expert and Stanford University lecturer, shares her insights on navigating ethical dilemmas in today's complex world. She discusses a four-step framework for ethical decision-making, illuminating the far-reaching implications of individual choices. Susan emphasizes the significance of effective listening in a polarized society and how it fosters collaboration. The conversation also touches on the ethical dimensions of personal finance, highlighting the need for aligning financial practices with personal values.

In this discussion, Sarah Churchwell, an expert in American culture, and Danielle Pletka, a foreign policy analyst, tackle the tumultuous journey ahead for President Joe Biden. They examine the deep divisions in America and the daunting task of uniting a polarized nation. Key topics include Biden's ability to handle crises in public health and the economy, address racial injustice, and foster bipartisan cooperation. They dive into the significance of leadership in healing and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy amidst rising global tensions.

Will Grant, a BBC correspondent in Mexico, Central America, and Cuba, discusses his book 'Populista' alongside Mark Mardell. They dissect the rise of Latin America's strongman leaders, revealing how the 'Pink Tide' has morphed into authoritarianism. Grant shares insights on COVID-19 responses in Brazil and Mexico, critiques U.S. foreign policy's historical influence, and examines the romanticized revolutionary spirit among citizens. The conversation highlights the cyclical nature of populism and the vital role of journalism in countering disinformation.

Tara Palmeri, an investigative journalist and host of 'Power: The Maxwells', dives deep into the enigmatic life of Ghislaine Maxwell and her controversial father, Robert Maxwell, a media mogul with a shadowy past. They explore the complexities of Ghislaine's relationship with her father and the impact of his mysterious death on her life. Palmeri also discusses Ghislaine's arrest and the ensuing fallout from the Epstein scandal, revealing the tangled web of power and legacy that continues to captivate the public.

In this engaging discussion, David Epstein, author and investigative reporter, reveals why generalists often outshine specialists in our complex world. He shares insights from the journeys of successful figures like athletes and artists, emphasizing the benefits of diverse experiences. Epstein argues that failing tests can lead to better learning outcomes and that frequent career changes can lead to fulfillment. He highlights how adaptability and a well-rounded skillset foster innovation and creativity, encouraging listeners to embrace a broader perspective in their personal and professional lives.

Will Davies, a political economist and author, and Matthew Goodwin, a professor of politics, dive into the seismic shifts of 2021. They debate the impact of Brexit and Biden's presidency on UK politics, exploring how these events could exacerbate existing cultural divides. The duo discusses the rise of populism, the effects of educational disparities, and the implications for US-EU relations. They offer contrasting views on Britain’s future, emphasizing the need for dialogue about national identity in an increasingly fragmented landscape.

Tim Harford, a Senior economist for the Financial Times, and David Spiegelhalter, Winton Professor at Cambridge, dive into the world of statistics and its real-life implications. They explore how emotional reactions can distort data interpretation, critique the credibility of popular psychology studies, and share cautionary tales about miscommunicating risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also discuss strategies to counter misinformation and the importance of diverse news consumption, all while emphasizing the power of numbers in understanding our world.

Madawi Al-Rasheed, a Saudi dissident and author, joins BBC Middle East Editor Jeremy Bowen to discuss her book, which critiques the façade of reform in Saudi Arabia under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. They explore how the crown prince's social changes, like allowing women to drive, mask a regime that still crushes dissent. The conversation delves into the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, the regime's use of disinformation, and challenges the Western perception of dictatorship as necessary for stability in the kingdom.

Otegha Uwagba, an insightful author and podcaster known for her book 'Whites: On Race and Other Falsehoods', joins Mariel Richards for a heartfelt discussion on the complexities of race and whiteness. They dive into how societal expectations shape personal identity and the burden placed on Black individuals in predominantly white spaces. Uwagba critiques performative allyship and emphasizes the need for authenticity in addressing racism. Their exchange also highlights the misrepresentation of Black writers and the nuanced dynamics between Black British and American communities.

Daniel Goleman, a best-selling author and psychologist, discusses the pivotal role of emotional intelligence in our lives. He delves into its four key components: self-awareness, emotion management, empathy, and relationship management. Goleman argues that emotional intelligence often surpasses IQ in determining success. He shares insights on how it can be nurtured, particularly in children, and highlights the significance of emotional intelligence during challenging times, especially the pandemic. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on our emotional interactions.