Intelligence Squared

Claudia Hammond, an award-winning author and broadcaster renowned for her work on psychology, joins physicist Helen Czerski to discuss the art of rest. They explore how true rest is more than just sleep; it's essential for mental health. Hammond shares insights from her Global Rest Test, revealing surprising personal definitions of rest and how societal views on busyness can create guilt around downtime. They also touch on the benefits of walking for well-being, the impact of reading on our mood, and the disruptive role of technology in achieving restorative rest.

Alicia Garza, co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement and author of "The Purpose of Power," discusses her journey of transforming a hashtag into a global movement. She emphasizes the role of grassroots organizing in challenging systemic racism and empowers individuals to understand their privilege in enacting change. Garza also critiques black capitalism, urging for deeper allyship and community engagement to address economic inequalities. Listeners are invited to reflect on their personal strengths to contribute meaningfully to societal progress.

Reeves Wiedeman, a contributing editor at New York Magazine, delves into the dramatic history of WeWork and its founder, Adam Neumann. He reveals how Neumann's charismatic vision reshaped office culture but ultimately led to disillusionment as the company's grandeur crumbled. Wiedeman discusses the pivotal role of private investors in inflating WeWork's valuation and the consequences of its excesses. The conversation highlights valuable lessons on the risks of aggressive growth strategies and the need for sustainable practices in startup culture.

Join award-winning journalist Eric Weiner, author of "The Socrates Express," and philosopher Danielle Sands as they explore what lessons philosophy offers during the COVID-19 crisis. They delve into timeless insights from thinkers like Socrates and Simone de Beauvoir, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and navigating personal melancholy. The duo discusses how to construct individual philosophies and the relevance of historical figures like Montaigne in today's world, reminding us that meaning often lies in exploring life's challenges.

Join philosopher John Gray, author of "Feline Philosophy: Cats and the Meaning of Life," and novelist Will Self, a vocal advocate for dogs, as they dive into the age-old debate of cats versus dogs. The discussion blends personal anecdotes with philosophical musings, shedding light on the emotional bonds we form with our furry friends. Gray argues for the mysterious allure of cats, while Self champions the loyalty of dogs, sparking a lively exploration of what these pets reveal about us as humans.

Sarah Gilbert, a leading Professor of Vaccinology at the University of Oxford, discusses the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines and their potential in restoring normalcy. Richard Horton, Editor of The Lancet, critiques the UK government's response while addressing the ethical dilemmas of vaccination prioritization. Tim Spector, founder of the Zoe COVID Symptom Study app, highlights the importance of understanding long COVID and the implications of vaccine efficacy against variants. Together, they explore the challenges and possibilities of navigating our path out of the pandemic.

Kishore Mahbubani, a former Singaporean diplomat and author, shares his compelling view that the West must prepare for a world where China is the leading superpower. The discussion covers the impact of China's global influence and the importance of adopting a nuanced foreign policy. They analyze pandemic politics and debate the narrative surrounding China's response. Mahbubani argues for collaboration over confrontation, emphasizing that understanding Chinese citizens' perspectives is crucial for global cooperation on issues like climate change.

Lionel Barber, former editor of the Financial Times, shares riveting tales from his high-profile interviews with leaders like Vladimir Putin and Angela Merkel. He discusses the roots of Brexit, the evolving role of journalism in the face of disinformation, and the challenges of maintaining media integrity. Barber also illuminates the rise of China under Xi Jinping and critiques capitalism's need for reform. Joining him is Manveen Rana, an investigative journalist bringing a fresh perspective to these critical global issues.

Nanjala Nyabola, a writer and political analyst, shares her insights on migration, race, and identity from an African perspective. She recounts personal travel experiences in diverse locations, highlighting how tourism often overlooks people of color. Co-host Yousra Elbagir facilitates a discussion on the implications of privilege in travel, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mobility, and the complexities of identity in contemporary Kenya. Together, they passionately explore issues of human trafficking, storytelling, and the need for authentic representation in narratives.

Join Matt Karnitschnig, Chief Europe Correspondent for Politico, and Sudha David-Wilp, Deputy Director at the German Marshall Fund, as they dissect the future of the transatlantic relationship under President Biden. They explore the complexities of European security and NATO dynamics, emphasizing the need for European nations to take greater responsibility. The conversation also highlights public opinion on Biden's ability to mend ties, revealing mixed sentiments. With Brexit and geopolitical challenges looming, can Europe chart a new course?