
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.)
Latest episodes

Sep 13, 2024 • 53min
Is the ICC’s Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Justified?
Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, discusses the ICC's arrest warrant linked to war crimes in the Israel-Hamas conflict. He debates the legitimacy of the ICC's actions, questioning their jurisdiction and the political motivations behind the warrant. Perspectives shift as Kenneth Roth argues for accountability, while Eugene Kontorovich highlights legal complexities. They touch on civilian casualties in Gaza, the implications of urban warfare, and the intertwining of antisemitism with international law. The conversation navigates the intricate landscape of international justice.

15 snips
Sep 6, 2024 • 53min
Wokeness in Public Schools: Helping or Hurting Students?
In this thought-provoking discussion, Ian Rowe, a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, argues that incorporating wokeness in education might hinder rather than help students. In contrast, Altheria Caldera, a Senior Professorial Lecturer at American University, advocates for its benefits in fostering empathy and societal awareness. They explore the complexities of teaching systemic racism, the role of historical narratives, and the importance of a balanced approach to education that empowers students while promoting inclusivity.

15 snips
Aug 30, 2024 • 53min
Does America Need a Third Party?
Andrew Yang, founder of the Forward Party and former presidential candidate, argues for the necessity of a third party to counteract political polarization. He believes it offers non-partisan solutions and better represents diverse ideologies. In contrast, Daniel DiSalvo, a political science professor at CUNY, defends the stability of the two-party system as essential for simplifying voting decisions. They debate the risks of authoritarianism, the impact of electoral reforms like ranked choice voting, and hope for reform in America’s political landscape.

12 snips
Aug 23, 2024 • 53min
Does the Effective Altruism Movement Get Giving Right?
In this engaging discussion, Peter Singer, a leading philosopher and bioethics professor, advocates for the effectiveness of the effective altruism movement, emphasizing strategic charitable giving. In contrast, Alice Crary critiques its focus on measurable outcomes, arguing it overlooks vital social justice issues and complex human suffering. The conversation deftly navigates the moral dilemmas inherent in philanthropy and explores the movement's implications for animal welfare and systemic inequalities, making for a thought-provoking debate.

13 snips
Aug 16, 2024 • 53min
America the Dysfunctional with Brian Tyler Cohen
Dive into the complexities of political polarization in the U.S. and explore challenges of orating national dialogue. Discover political branding's impact on party reputations and how media shapes voter sentiment. Unpack the erosion of trust in government through historical events and media influence. Analyze youth political priorities, emphasizing the urgent need for bipartisanship. Finally, learn strategies for communicating Democratic successes in conservative areas to reshape public perception.

Aug 9, 2024 • 53min
Can Israel Make Peace with Hamas?
Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, joins a heated debate on whether Israel can achieve peace with Hamas. Topics include the challenges of negotiating with groups labeled as terrorists and the moral implications of such interactions. The discussion explores historical attempts at peace and the complexities of achieving a ceasefire while managing ongoing violence. The speakers dissect opposing views on legitimizing Hamas and the notion of ensuring long-term security for Israel amid the cyclical nature of conflict.

5 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 53min
Is the Two-State Solution Still Viable?
The viability of the two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is critically examined against the backdrop of recent violence. Debaters highlight historical failures and current challenges that complicate this path to peace. Perspectives range from advocating for Palestinian statehood with educational reform to addressing the influence of Hamas and regional dynamics. There are calls for Palestinian leadership accountability and innovative approaches to governance. The discussion emphasizes the importance of civil discourse and the enduring hope for a peaceful resolution.

Jul 26, 2024 • 53min
Mock Trial: Should Trump’s Conviction Stand?
Legal experts debate Trump's conviction in a mock trial, questioning presidential immunity and due process rights. They discuss the specificity of indictments, falsification of records, and the impact of Supreme Court rulings. The episode emphasizes civil discourse and challenging extreme polarization through thoughtful debate.

Jul 18, 2024 • 53min
Should Biden Step Aside?
Debaters argue whether Biden should step aside due to concerns about his age and performance. Supporters fear fragmentation of Democrats, while skeptics think a new candidate could boost election chances. Topics also include swing voters, fundraising, and leadership qualities.

Jul 12, 2024 • 53min
History Lessons About Combatting Polarization in 2024 with Fareed Zakaria
CNN host and bestselling author Fareed Zakaria discusses combatting polarization by embracing compromise in revolutionary times. Topics include historical revolutions, evolution of politics, liberal ideologies, backlash against immigration, technology's impact on polarization, and challenges in America's future.