Intelligence Squared

John Micklethwait and Adrian Wooldridge, bestselling authors and experts on global affairs, discuss how the pandemic has unveiled the vulnerabilities of Western governments. They tackle the contrasting success of Eastern nations in managing COVID-19, questioning the effectiveness of liberal democracies. The conversation delves into the implications for governance, the rise of big government, and the need for reform to reclaim public trust. Key issues on technological tensions and the impact of China's governance model on the West also emerge.

Tamara Payne, co-author of 'The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X' and daughter of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Les Payne, joins writer Yassmin Abdel-Magied to discuss Malcolm X's complex legacy. They delve into his early life, the impact of his father’s death, and his journey through the Nation of Islam. The conversation highlights how Malcolm's global experiences shaped his views on race and identity, revealing his enduring influence on modern civil rights movements and the fight for justice.

Anne Applebaum, a writer for The Atlantic and author of 'Twilight of Democracy,' joins political commentator Jonathan Freedland to explore the decline of democratic norms. They reflect on a nostalgic past of unity and the harsh current realities of political division. The duo discusses how nostalgia fuels nationalism and the allure of authoritarianism, revealing the complex motivations behind political allegiances. They also analyze the shifting landscape of political ideologies and the challenges facing traditional parties in this volatile climate.

Franziska Brantner, a Member of the European Parliament and spokesperson for the German Green Party, debates with climate activist Dr. Tadzio Müller. They tackle whether the European Green Deal can truly balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. The discussion highlights the need for urgent reforms, critiques the inadequacy of the current policies, and emphasizes the necessity of addressing social justice and equity in climate action—especially for marginalized communities facing the brunt of environmental degradation.

Helen Pluckrose, Editor of Aero magazine and co-author of 'Cynical Theories,' dives deep into the ideological roots of modern social justice activism. She discusses the transformation of radical ideas from French postmodernism into today's 'wokeness,' highlighting concepts like knowledge as a social construct and the dangers of cancel culture. Alongside host Helen Joyce, they critique the detrimental impact of these beliefs on marginalized communities and the urgency of fostering balanced discourse in journalism and academia.

In this engaging conversation, Thomas Friedman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist for The New York Times, and Robert Peston, ITV's political editor, delve into the weighty implications of the upcoming U.S. presidential election. They discuss the tumultuous political landscape and the potential fallout from a contested election. The duo also explores Trump's impact on international relations and the effects of populism, as well as America's fractured politics. With a blend of sharp insights, they analyze what the future might hold for U.S.-China relations amidst these changes.

Guests Ankit Panda, a nuclear policy expert, and Patricia Lewis, director of the International Security Program, dive into North Korea's nuclear ambitions and global implications. They discuss the historical evolution of its nuclear program and the failure of past international diplomacy. The complexities of negotiating with North Korea are explored, alongside Japan's security dilemmas and South Korea's fluctuating stance on peace initiatives. They also examine future challenges, contemplating the implications of North Korea's nuclear strategy on U.S. policy and international relations.

Clive Woodward, a legendary rugby coach and the mastermind behind England's 2003 World Cup win, shares his invaluable leadership insights. He dives into the importance of relentless learning and cultivating a winning culture, drawing parallels between sports and business. Woodward emphasizes the significance of authenticity and trust, how collaborative empowerment drives team success, and his reflections on high-pressure moments in sports history. He also discusses the role of culture in fostering personal growth within teams, making leadership applicable to all.

In this engaging discussion, Laura Bates, the founder of The Everyday Sexism Project, teams up with columnist Sonia Sodha to delve into the dark world of incels and online misogyny. Bates reveals how vulnerable young boys are groomed and radicalized within toxic digital communities, and how algorithms on platforms like YouTube inadvertently promote hate. They explore the alarming rise of misogynistic ideologies, the normalization of violence against women, and the gaps in accountability from social media companies. This candid conversation sheds light on an urgent issue affecting society.

Clover Hogan, a passionate 21-year-old climate activist and founder of Force of Nature, joins Alannah Weston, chairman of Selfridges Group, to discuss transforming eco-anxiety into action. They explore the importance of empowering youth in environmental activism and how businesses can build trust through authentic actions. The conversation highlights the need for inclusivity and intergenerational dialogue to address climate issues effectively. Clover's inspiring journey emphasizes collaboration as key to fostering a sustainable future.