Open to Debate
Open to Debate
America is more divided than ever—but it doesn’t have to be. Open to Debate offers an antidote to the chaos. We bring multiple perspectives together for real, nonpartisan debates. Debates that are structured, respectful, clever, provocative, and driven by the facts. Open to Debate is on a mission to restore balance to the public square through expert moderation, good-faith arguments, and reasoned analysis. We examine the issues of the day with the world’s most influential thinkers spanning science, technology, politics, culture, and global affairs. It’s time to build a stronger, more united democracy with the civil exchange of ideas. Be open-minded. Be curious. Be ready to listen. Join us in being Open to Debate. (Formerly Intelligence Squared U.S.)
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 53min
Should America End Birthright Citizenship?
In a lively debate, Horace Cooper, a constitutional scholar and former law professor, argues against birthright citizenship, claiming it's a misapplication of the 14th Amendment. Opposing him, Kris Mayes, Arizona's Attorney General, highlights the amendment's integral value to equality and its historical context. Mark Krikorian presents data on illegal immigration trends supporting his stance for change, while Chris Newman passionately defends birthright citizenship as crucial for protecting children's rights and promoting inclusion. The discussion also touches on the potential chaos of policy reversal and the fundamental concepts of national identity.
85 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 53min
Will the Future Be Abundant?
Peter Diamandis, founder of the XPRIZE Foundation and proponent of 'data-driven optimism', argues that exponential technologies will transform scarcity into abundance. In contrast, geopolitical strategist Peter Zeihan warns that deglobalization, aging populations, and a declining China pose significant risks to future prosperity. They explore the impact of tech on inequality, future food security, and potential geopolitical conflicts. Both find common ground on technology's promise, but diverge sharply on the pace of change and necessary caution.
25 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 53min
Is War Inevitable?
Dylan Motan, an international relations scholar, argues that the anarchic global system leads states to prioritize survival through war. In contrast, Gabrielle Rifkind, a conflict mediator, counters that understanding human psychology and effective mediation can prevent conflict. They explore the balance between systemic pressures and leadership decisions, debating whether institutions like the UN are effective in averting war. Historical examples and the Israel-Palestine conflict are examined, highlighting the complexities of achieving lasting peace.
45 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 54min
Wartime Kill Switch: Human or AI?
Laura Walker McDonald highlights the need for human control in warfare to protect civilians and ensure accountability. Michael C. Horowitz argues that AI can enhance compliance with humanitarian law and reduce emotional mistakes. Elliot Ackerman emphasizes the moral implications of war and the necessity for ethical leadership. Meanwhile, Jack Shanahan discusses the inevitability of autonomous systems and the importance of human oversight throughout the AI lifecycle. Together, they delve into the complex debate over the roles of humans and AI in modern warfare.
74 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 53min
Debating the Legacy of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Dr. Jerome Adams, former U.S. Surgeon General, shares insights on public health communication failures and societal challenges during COVID-19. Dr. Mike Varshavski, known as Dr. Mike, highlights systemic issues that contributed to the crisis. Dr. Dara Kass recounts her frontline experiences and the misinformation that hindered collective action. Dr. Tom Frieden, ex-CDC Director, emphasizes the importance of effective communication and the need for future public health investments. The debate raises critical questions about accountability and the role of society in managing health crises.
22 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 54min
Is Masculinity A Prison?
In this lively debate, Mike Pesca, a seasoned journalist known for his daily news insights on The Gist, argues that masculinity is evolving and not a prison. Opposing him, Lux Alptraum, a writer and sex educator, emphasizes how rigid masculine roles can lead to emotional isolation. They explore the influence of cultural figures and the term 'toxic masculinity' on men's identities. The discussion also tackles personal experiences and societal pressures facing men today, making for a thought-provoking conversation on masculinity's role in modern life.
23 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 53min
TikTok in the Classroom: Enhancing or Eroding the Teaching Profession?
In this engaging discussion, Phil Cook, a high school chemistry teacher and TikTok influencer, argues for the platform's potential in making learning more accessible. In contrast, Adrian Dingle, an education consultant and chemistry author, raises concerns about distractions and diminishing educational depth. The two explore the balance between utilizing modern technology for engagement and adhering to rigorous teaching standards, revealing a lively debate on TikTok's role in today's classrooms.
76 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 19min
Should the U.S. Be Ruled by a CEO Dictator?
In this thought-provoking discussion, Curtis Yarvin, a political philosopher and tech entrepreneur, argues for the efficiency of a CEO-style dictatorship in the U.S. He believes it could disrupt outdated institutions. In contrast, E. Glen Weyl, co-founder of the Radical Exchange Foundation, warns that such centralization compromises democratic values. They explore historical precedents, legal frameworks, media-government dynamics, and the risks of power concentration. This fierce debate challenges listeners to reconsider the essence of American governance.
51 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 53min
Don't Eat Anything With a Face
In this engaging discussion, Neal Barnard, a clinical researcher and founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, teams up with Gene Baur, president of the Farm Sanctuary, to argue for a plant-based lifestyle. Conversely, Chris Masterjohn, a nutritional sciences researcher, and Joel Salatin, a farmer and author, passionately defend meat consumption. They explore the ethics of eating animals, the health impacts of diets, and the environmental consequences, all while addressing personal choices and the complexities of our dietary habits.
14 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 52min
Fast Fashion: Shop or Stop?
Katherine Mangu-Ward, Editor-in-Chief at Reason, champions the affordability and accessibility of fast fashion, arguing it supports jobs and economic growth. Meanwhile, Kenneth Pucker, former COO of Timberland and sustainability professor, raises alarm bells about environmental damage and worker exploitation linked to the industry. The discussion unpacks the ethical dilemma of choosing trendy clothing versus sustainable practices, urging listeners to consider the broader impact of their shopping habits.
