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
Dec 15, 2020 • 33min
Philosophy in the Age of Covid-19, with Eric Weiner and Danielle Sands
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.
Dec 11, 2020 • 35min
Cats vs Dogs, with John Gray and Will Self, Part 1
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.
Dec 8, 2020 • 49min
COVID-19 and The Vaccine: A Shot of Hope and A Return to Normal?
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.
Dec 4, 2020 • 46min
Debate: It’s Time for the West to Get Tough with China
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.
Dec 1, 2020 • 1h
The Powerful and the Damned, with Lionel Barber and Manveen Rana
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.
Nov 27, 2020 • 59min
Travelling While Black, with Nanjala Nyabola and Yousra Elbagir
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.
Nov 24, 2020 • 55min
Debate: Joe Biden Won't Fix the Transatlantic Relationship
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?
Nov 20, 2020 • 48min
Anthony Scaramucci and Danielle Pletka on Trumpism and The Future of The Republican Party
Anthony Scaramucci, a financier and former White House communications director, joins Danielle Pletka, former VP at the American Enterprise Institute, to dissect the future of the Republican Party post-Trump. They debate the implications of Trump's refusal to concede after the election, exploring whether it's a tantrum or a strategic move for 2024. The duo also tackles the party's identity crisis, the financial motivations behind Trumpism, and the challenges of confronting Trump's influence amid calls for new leadership.
Nov 19, 2020 • 36min
Business and the Future of Immigration in 2021
In this engaging discussion, Philippa Rouse, Director of Border and Immigration Policy at the Home Office, shares insights on the UK's new points-based immigration system. Emelia Quist, Head of Immigration Policy at the Federation of Small Businesses, highlights the challenges small businesses face, while Ian Robinson, a partner at Fragomen, provides valuable legal perspectives on navigating these changes. The conversation covers the impact on recruitment, the simplification of procedures for SMEs, and crucial resources to guide businesses through this evolving landscape.
Nov 17, 2020 • 54min
Margaret MacMillan and Peter Frankopan on How War Has Shaped Humanity
Margaret MacMillan, a distinguished historian and author of 'War: How Conflict Shaped Us', joins Peter Frankopan to explore the profound impact of war on society. They discuss how conflicts shape political institutions, culture, and values, as well as the complex gender dynamics involved. MacMillan highlights both the destructive and transformative effects of war, including its unexpected benefits like progress in women's rights and medical advancements. They further delve into modern warfare's challenges and the evolving nature of conflicts in today's world.
