Intelligence Squared

Dr. Pragya Agarwal, an expert in unconscious bias and author of "Sway," joins BBC broadcaster Kavita Puri for a compelling conversation. They explore the origins of implicit biases, touching on technology and societal impacts. The discussion covers the complexities of bias beyond race and gender, including beauty and accents. They also critique the use of the term BAME and emphasize the necessity for awareness and proactive strategies to combat discrimination. Listeners gain insights into fostering inclusivity and better communication.

In this intriguing discussion, Sarah Posner, author of 'Unholy,' and Brian Klaas, Washington Post columnist, dive into the puzzling ties between Donald Trump and white evangelical Christians. They explore how Trump's presidency has reshaped evangelical identity and engagement in politics. The conversation touches on the dynamics of strongman leadership within the religious right, the rationalizations for their support, and the implications this alliance has for democracy. Expect insights into how faith, politics, and power intersect in today's America.

David Olusoga, a historian and author of "Black and British: A Forgotten History", joins Labour MP Dawn Butler, known for her advocacy on racial justice, and philosopher Susan Neiman, who wrote "Learning from the Germans". They discuss the global protests ignited by George Floyd's death, the controversial removals of statues, and the complexities of historical narratives around slavery. They also highlight the impact of inclusive education and the role of youth activism in striving for equality and justice.

Joining Tom Whipple are Lynda Gratton and Andrew J Scott, co-authors of 'The New Long Life,' who delve into the implications of living longer in an increasingly technological world. They discuss how aging affects our work, love, and learning, making a case for adaptable education and social resilience. The duo highlights the importance of enhancing human skills and the need for lifelong learning to prepare for job displacement. They envision a future where older workers thrive, redefining retirement and embracing diverse life paths.

Anand Giridharadas, author of 'Winners Take All,' discusses capitalism's flaws in a post-pandemic world. He argues that the crisis is a chance to foster a more egalitarian society, while Matthew Taylor brings insights on the role of the state in this transformation. They explore the paradox of philanthropy, questioning whether charity truly alleviates inequality. Additionally, they consider how historical crises have sparked social change, emphasizing the need for collective action and robust public institutions to redefine our future.

Adam Davidson, a renowned business and economics journalist and creator of NPR's Planet Money, discusses his book, The Passion Economy, shedding light on the evolving economic landscape. He argues that the 21st-century offers unique opportunities for individuals to merge their passions with their careers. Davidson explores personal stories through generations, challenges faced in navigating one’s passions, and insights into consumer behavior. The conversation reveals how societal shifts can turn crises into opportunities for growth, particularly in urban settings.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, former US Surgeon General and author of 'Together,' joins Ros Urwin to explore the pervasive issue of loneliness. He shares insights on how it contributes to anxiety, depression, and even societal challenges like addiction and violence. Their conversation delves into the harmful health impacts of isolation, comparing it to smoking, and emphasizes the urgency of fostering human connections. They discuss navigating loneliness in our digital age and the potential of relationships to strengthen communities and combat polarization.

In this engaging discussion, Will Davies, a Professor and author, teams up with Carl Miller, Research Director at Demos. They delve into why trust in facts and experts has dwindled, particularly during crises like COVID-19. The conversation explores how emotional responses have overshadowed rational discourse, the historical evolution of nationalism, and the challenges misinformation poses in modern politics. They also reflect on how shared beliefs and emotions shape community identity in an increasingly polarized world.

In this engaging discussion, Robert H. Frank, author of 'Under the Influence,' teams up with Linda Yueh to explore how our social environments shape our choices. They uncover surprising insights from behavioral economics, revealing how peer pressure drives everything from smoking to investment decisions. The duo emphasizes the potential of social influence for positive change, highlighting the balance of individual versus collective actions in policy-making, especially regarding climate advocacy. Tune in for a thought-provoking take on using peer pressure for the greater good!

In a compelling discussion, Helen Lewis, a staff writer at The Atlantic, engages with journalist Rachel Louise Snyder on the often-misunderstood nature of domestic violence. They dissect prevalent myths that downplay victims' realities and explore the intricate link between societal norms and abusive behavior. The conversation sheds light on tools like the 'hope card' for victim support and critiques the role of masculinity in perpetuating cycles of violence. Through personal narratives, they emphasize the need for systemic change and deeper understanding.