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Open to Debate

Latest episodes

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13 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 53min

Can America and Its Allies Tolerate A Nuclear Iran, or Is It Time to Stop Them Now?

Behnam Ben Taleblu, a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, dives into Iran's urgent nuclear ambitions. He emphasizes the critical moment for the U.S. and allies to take decisive action against a nuclear-capable Iran. The discussion highlights complex strategies for prevention, weighing military action against diplomatic negotiations. Ben Taleblu also draws parallels with North Korea's situation, exploring regional destabilization risks and the pressing need for a renewed focus on containment and reconciliation.
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10 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 53min

Does AA Work?

Nayeema Raza, a journalist and co-host of the Semafor podcast 'Mixed Signals', moderates a spirited debate between Dan Griffin, an expert on Alcoholics Anonymous, and Adi Jaffe, founder of IGNTD. They discuss the effectiveness of AA, with Griffin defending its structure and community support, while Jaffe challenges the abstinence model and advocates for more personalized approaches to recovery. The dialogue also explores the complexities of addiction treatment and the need for inclusive alternatives beyond traditional methods.
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19 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 53min

Could Longevity Science Extend Your Health Span By Decades? Should the Government Fund It?

In this engaging discussion, Peter Diamandis, founder of the XPRIZE Foundation and author of the "Longevity Guidebook", explores the transformative potential of longevity science to potentially add decades of healthy living. Meanwhile, Ezekiel J. Emanuel, bioethicist and oncologist, raises concerns about government funding for such research and the ethical implications it entails. Together, they debate the balance between pursuing technological solutions and the vital importance of lifestyle choices for enhanced healthspan, leaving listeners pondering the future of aging and well-being.
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50 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 53min

The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?

In this engaging discussion, journalist Naima Reza moderates a captivating debate on happiness featuring Jeffrey Rosen, the CEO of the National Constitution Center and author on virtue's impact on American values. They tackle whether happiness should derive from virtue or pleasure, referencing philosophical giants like Socrates and Aristotle. The conversation highlights the significance of self-mastery, meaningful relationships, and the impact of income inequality. Ultimately, they balance the intertwined pursuit of pleasure and virtue in leading a fulfilling life.
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22 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 53min

Psychedelics for Mental Health: Help or Hype?

Ismail Ali, Director of Policy and Advocacy at MAPS, passionately supports psychedelics as promising mental health treatments, particularly for those unresponsive to conventional therapies. In contrast, Kevin Sabet, former White House drug policy advisor, raises alarms about the unknown long-term effects of these substances. They dive into the ethical concerns of legalization, the need for rigorous regulation, and the ongoing debate surrounding the legitimacy of psychedelic research. Tune in for a thought-provoking clash on mental health and psychedelics!
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13 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 53min

Global Leaders Debate Money, Truth, and Power

From economic turbulence and the dilemmas posed by artificial intelligence to the big-picture challenges of our time, the pillars of money, truth, and power shape the complex global landscape. In partnership with the Future Investment Initiative (FII), join us as twelve of the world’s greatest thinkers debate: “Clash of the Titans: Three Grand Challenges Facing Humanity,” “What is Europe’s Economic Outlook?”, and “Will AI-Generated Entertainment Replace Human Creativity?” Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan, Open to Debate CEO Clea Conner, and moderator and journalist Edie Lush moderate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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27 snips
Nov 29, 2024 • 53min

Fast Fashion: Shop or Stop?

Kenneth Pucker, former COO of Timberland and a sustainability professor, debates with Katherine Mangu-Ward, editor-in-chief at Reason Magazine, on the fast fashion industry's impact. They discuss the environmental damage and labor exploitation caused by trendy, low-cost clothing, while also acknowledging the economic benefits it provides to consumers and local economies. Their conversation highlights the tension between consumer choice, ethical labor practices, and the need for innovative solutions to balance sustainability with affordable fashion.
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33 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 53min

Thinking Twice: Revenge of the Tipping Point with Malcolm Gladwell

Malcolm Gladwell, bestselling author and co-founder of Pushkin Industries, reflects on the evolution of his thoughts since his groundbreaking book, The Tipping Point. He discusses the darker aspects of social epidemics, changing views on crime prevention, and the impact of the opioid crisis and COVID-19. Gladwell also highlights the role of narratives in shaping societal beliefs and the dynamic nature of influence in today’s fragmented media landscape. His candid insights on navigating criticism and the evolution of public opinion promise a thought-provoking listen.
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75 snips
Nov 15, 2024 • 53min

Is the Republican Party’s Refusal to Raise Taxes Fiscally Irresponsible?

Nayeema Raza, a sharp journalist from New York Magazine and Vox, moderates a lively debate on whether the Republican Party's refusal to raise taxes is fiscally irresponsible. The conversation delves into the implications of four trillion in tax cuts against a staggering $34 trillion debt. Guests discuss the tensions between cuts and spending, and the historical impact of tax policies on national debt. The dialogue highlights differing viewpoints on tax increases’ role in fostering economic growth versus government overspending, ultimately pushing for a balanced fiscal approach.
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88 snips
Nov 8, 2024 • 53min

Is the American Dream in Decline?

Naima Raza, a journalist at New York Magazine and Vox, moderates a heated discussion with David Leonhardt, a Pulitzer Prize-winning senior writer for The New York Times and author, about the status of the American Dream. They explore whether this ideal is truly in decline, delving into rising costs of healthcare and education. The debate juxtaposes perspectives on economic disparity against notions of opportunity and progress. They reflect on historical shifts, the impact of recent crises, and grassroots movements advocating for inclusive capitalism.

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