Intelligence Squared

Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and bestselling author, joins journalist Helen Lewis to challenge the notion that humans are inherently selfish. They delve into the evolutionary basis for kindness and cooperation, discussing famous studies and reframing our understanding of history. The conversation covers the dynamics of kindness versus compliance, critiques on social psychology experiments, and the importance of storytelling in governance. Bregman's optimistic perspective invites listeners to reconsider the complexities of human nature and the potential for collective progress.

Peter Geoghegan, Investigations Editor at Open Democracy and author of 'Democracy for Sale: Dark Money and Dirty Politics', joins Nick Cohen, Observer columnist, to tackle the troubling issue of dark money in politics. They delve into how secretive funding undermines democracy, spotlighting the influence of Russian meddling in Brexit and outdated regulations. The duo discusses the urgent need for reforms to enhance transparency and accountability, and explores the implications of union funding on political dynamics in the UK. It's a captivating look at the intersection of money and politics.

Isabel Wilkerson, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "Caste: The Lies That Divide Us," joins author and broadcaster Yassmin Abdel-Magied for an illuminating discussion on the hidden power of caste in society. They delve into the nuances of caste systems and their historical roots, exploring how they shape identity and social status today. The conversation highlights the insidious nature of caste and its parallels to racial injustice, challenging listeners to confront deep-seated inequalities that persist in contemporary culture.

Ian Urbina, an investigative reporter known for uncovering illegal fishing practices, joins journalist Rosamund Urwin to discuss alarming revelations about a Chinese squid fleet fishing in North Korean waters, violating UN sanctions. They investigate the shocking connection between these activities and the mysterious deaths of North Korean fishermen whose bodies have washed ashore in Japan. The conversation also delves into the geopolitical implications of ghost ships and the resilience of those exploited in the fishing industry.

Kavita Puri, author of "Partition Voices: Untold British Stories," teams up with Rajini Vaidyanathan, a BBC South Asian correspondent. They delve into the impacts of the 1947 partition of India, sharing remarkable testimonies from British citizens who lived through it. The discussion highlights the importance of documenting personal narratives and addresses generational trauma. They also explore the emotional resilience of individuals amidst chaos, emphasizing the need to remember both the darkness of history and the hope that emerges through shared human experiences.

Warren Valdmanis, an impact investor and author of 'Accountable: How We Can Save Capitalism', joins Michelle Meagher, founder of the Inclusive Competition Forum and author of 'Competition Is Killing Us', to explore the intersection of business and social good in a post-COVID-19 world. They discuss the evolution from corporate social responsibility to integrated ESG practices and the need for businesses to realign their purpose toward social impact. The duo emphasizes accountability, ethical practices, and the influence of consumer choices in shaping a more equitable economy.

Nina Schick, a political advisor and author of "Deepfakes and the Infocalypse," joins Carl Miller to discuss the alarming rise of deepfakes and the threat to democracy they pose. They delve into how AI-generated media can manipulate reality, eroding trust and exacerbating misinformation crises. Schick highlights the historical context of disinformation tactics, particularly in political discourse, and emphasizes the urgent need for collective awareness and action in combating these growing threats. It's a riveting look into our digital future.

Historian Niall Ferguson, known for his insights into crises, discusses the profound lessons history offers regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. He analyzes how government responses are shaped by historical contexts and shares his observations on global reactions to the virus. Ferguson highlights the geopolitical implications, particularly concerning China and the US, and reflects on how past pandemics like the Black Death have shaped society and culture. His insights bridge the past with our current reality, suggesting patterns that inform future responses.

Ivana Bartoletti, a privacy expert and co-founder of Women Leading in AI Network, joins Yassmin Abdel-Magied, a broadcaster and writer, to discuss the intricacies of the AI revolution. They explore the hidden labor of 'ghost workers' in AI, advocating for greater transparency and empathy in this critical field. The duo also examines the ethical implications of data and its impact on marginalized communities. Furthermore, they address the psychological costs faced by workers and the urgent need for public participation in shaping AI governance.

Philosopher Slavoj Žižek, known for his provocative insights into culture and theory, teams up with academic Shahidha Bari, an expert in postcolonial thought. They dive into Hegel's legacy and his relevance to today's digital age, discussing the concept of a 'wired brain' and its implications for personal freedom. The conversation tackles how technology reshapes identity and relationships, while also reflecting on Hegel's warnings about knowledge arriving too late. Their exchange prompts critical questions about individuality and spirituality in a tech-dominated world.