Open to Debate

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...

Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

America is suffering from a loneliness epidemic. Some groups have suggested religious communities may be key to solving it. Could it help? Those arguing “yes” say it gives people regular social contact, support systems, and a sense of purpose that could combat isolation. Those arguing “no” say that secular options would provide better, broad-based solutions. Now we debate: Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?  Arguing Yes:  Harold Koenig, Director of Duke University’s Center for Spiritual

Feb 21, • 50:30

Is It Time to Break Up with Dating Apps?

Is It Time to Break Up with Dating Apps?

How’s your love life? With platforms like Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and OkCupid offering endless opportunities to connect, many people searching for The One think signing up for a dating app should be a go-to for finding their match. However, new research is showing some users are signing off, including ninety percent of Gen Z users. Those staying on the apps point to their ease of use, accessibility, and the countless success stories of happily coupled friends who met that way. Others say dating a

Feb 14, • 53:15

UNRESOLVED: The Future of the Supreme Court

UNRESOLVED: The Future of the Supreme Court

In recent years, multiple proposals have been made to change how the U.S. Supreme Court operates in its current form. Would these reforms help – or hurt? What is the future of the highest court in the land? In partnership with Johns Hopkins University as part of our inaugural “Hopkins Forum”, our featured guests will discuss term limits, expanding the Supreme Court, and whether external ethics codes should be applied. Our Guests: Ambassador Jeff Flake, Former Member of the Senate Judiciary Comm

Feb 7, • 53:15

Has Legalizing Sports Gambling Become a Bad Bet?

Has Legalizing Sports Gambling Become a Bad Bet?

Sports fans can place bets on their favorite teams and athletes faster and easier than before, thanks to legalized sports gambling. But was it the wrong bet to make? Advocates say it’s been good for fans, the economy, and the sports industry.  Those who say that what’s happened since legalization is a bad thing, say it’s driven a rise in gambling addiction and created a public health crisis. Now we debate: Has Legalizing Sports Gambling Become A Bad Bet?Arguing Yes: Harry Levant, Director of Ga

Jan 31, • 53:15

Prescription Weight Loss Drugs for All?

Prescription Weight Loss Drugs for All?

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have opened doors for people to lose weight. Should everyone have the option to take it? Those arguing “yes” say obesity needs to be treated using every available tool, especially for people for whom diet, lifestyle changes, and exercise aren’t enough. Those arguing “no” are concerned about its side effects and the risks if people don’t take them as directed. Now we debate: should prescription weight loss drugs be available for all?  Arguing Yes: Da

Jan 24, • 53:15

Could Identity Politics Help Democrats Engage Men?

Could Identity Politics Help Democrats Engage Men?

In the 2024 election, the Democrats did not have messaging that resonated with men, some say and is part of the reason Kamala Harris lost. Could leaning into identity politics to engage men work for future elections? Those arguing “yes” say focusing on men-related issues could help the Dems reconnect with a demographic that feels left behind. Those arguing “no” say focusing on gender and identity politics divide voters rather than unite them. Now we debate: Could Identity Politics Help

Jan 17, • 53:15

PODCAST BONUS RELEASE: Should the U.S. Ban TikTok?

PODCAST BONUS RELEASE: Should the U.S. Ban TikTok?

The clock is ticking on TikTok. The popular video sharing app is facing a looming deadline of January 19th, when the law effectively banning it in the U.S. is set to go into effect. Unless, that is, the Supreme Court steps in to save it this week. While we wait, we revisit our 2023 debate that asked this prescient question: Should the U.S. Ban TikTok?  Arguing Yes: Kori Schake, Senior Fellow and Director of Foreign and Defense Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute Arguing No: Milto

Jan 14, • 55:09

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

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

Iran is getting closer to developing its first nuclear weapon. With tensions rising in the Middle East, should the U.S. and its allies take a stand? Those calling to stop Iran now argue this is a “now or never” moment for the region. Those calling for tolerance say while it’s not ideal, it is manageable, and maintaining diplomacy should be the focus. Now we debate: Can America and Its Allies Tolerate A Nuclear Iran, or Is It Time to Stop Them Now? Arguing STOP NOW: Behnam Ben Taleblu, S

Jan 10, • 53:15

Does AA Work?

Does AA Work?

Millions of people have credited Alcoholics Anonymous with helping them stay sober from alcohol, but is it the best path for everyone? Those who say “yes” argue it is easily accessible to all and that its structure through the 12-step program helps people succeed. Those who say “no” argue say the abstinence model doesn’t work for everyone and there may be better alternatives. Now we debate: Does AA Work?  Arguing Yes: Dan Griffin, Expert on Alcoholics Anonymous; Author of "A Man's Way T

Jan 3, • 53:15

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

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

How long would you like to live, and could science and technology make it possible? Longevity science aims to extend our healthy years through advancements in CRISPR, cellular reprogramming, and drug development. While private companies and philanthropists invest heavily in these innovations, should the government be responsible for funding these efforts? Those who say yes to government funding say that longevity research could revolutionize public health, keep aging populations product

Dec 27, 2024 • 53:15

The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?

The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?

Happiness is a complex emotion and mental state that can be achieved through virtue or pleasure. But should it be for the good of the individual or society? Those in favor of virtue point to the Stoics and the Founding Fathers, saying you should strive for a life of moral virtue and rationality. Those in favor of pleasure say everyone should be able to experience it and define their sources of happiness. Now we debate: The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?  Arguing Virtue: Jeffr

Dec 20, 2024 • 53:15

Psychedelics for Mental Health: Help or Hype?

Psychedelics for Mental Health: Help or Hype?

Some scientific studies have shown evidence that psychedelic drugs, when used in controlled therapeutic settings, may help patients with their mental health — but should they be recommended by your doctor? Those advocating for psychedelic use argue that it could be a welcome relief for patients who don’t respond to traditional medicine. Those against its use argue we don’t yet understand their long-term effects. Now we debate: Psychedelics for Mental Health: Help or Hype?  Arguing Help:

Dec 13, 2024 • 53:15

Global Leaders Debate Money, Truth, and Power

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-win

Dec 6, 2024 • 53:15

Fast Fashion: Shop or Stop?

Fast Fashion: Shop or Stop?

Fast fashion has taken over the fashion industry, but is less expensive, trendy clothing really worth the purchase? Those who say to “stop” argue fast fashion harms the environment in many ways and exploits workers in countries with lax regulations. Those who say “keep shopping” argue it’s up to shoppers to choose, as fast fashion offers affordable options, supports jobs, and boosts local economies. Now we debate: Fast Fashion: Shop or Stop?Arguing Stop: Kenneth Pucker, Former COO of Timberland;

Nov 29, 2024 • 53:15

Thinking Twice: Revenge of the Tipping Point with Malcolm Gladwell

Thinking Twice: Revenge of the Tipping Point with Malcolm Gladwell

In 2000, New York Times bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell released the groundbreaking book “The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference”, which explored how small ideas can create lasting changes in everyday life through social engineering and the “tipping points” phenomenon. Two decades after the book’s original publication and in the spirit of an organizational mission that values a second look at seminal ideas, we speak with Gladwell about what he has learned and

Nov 22, 2024 • 53:15

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

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

Whether to extend four trillion dollars in tax cuts or raise them next year is in question, with 34.1 trillion dollars in federal debt hanging in the balance. Some argue that tax cuts don’t do enough to pay off the debt and not raising taxes imbalances the federal budget. Others argue our debt is caused by government overspending and will be helped by tax cuts that help promote a flourishing economy. Now we debate: Is the Republican Party’s Refusal to Raise Taxes Fiscally Irresponsible?

Nov 15, 2024 • 53:15

Is the American Dream in Decline?

Is the American Dream in Decline?

The American Dream – the idea that anyone can achieve success in the U.S. through hard work and determination – is under scrutiny, and some worry it’s no longer achievable for the broader population. Those who agree say increasing healthcare, education, and housing costs create difficulty in having financial stability. Those who disagree argue that the U.S. still offers more opportunities for personal and financial growth than elsewhere. Now we debate: Is the American Dream in Decline?  Arguing

Nov 8, 2024 • 53:15

Nate Silver on The Art of Risking Everything: Politics, Money, Power

Nate Silver on The Art of Risking Everything: Politics, Money, Power

At the moment of this episode’s release, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are neck-and-neck in election polls. How do you embrace risk, make informed decisions, and be prepared for any possible changes? In this episode, FiveThirtyEight founder and author of “On the Edge” Nate Silver discusses with Reason magazine’s Editor-at-Large Nick Gillespie his thoughts on which direction the 2024 election may go and the ways risk-takers cultivate power and drive change. Our Guest: Nate Silver, Leading Polit

Nov 1, 2024 • 53:15

Has The Electoral College Outlived Its Usefulness?

Has The Electoral College Outlived Its Usefulness?

Five American presidents — two in the last 20 years — have assumed office without winning the popular vote. As the nation gears up for another contentious presidential election, some are calling for an end to the Electoral College. They argue that the college subverts the will of the American people by unfairly prioritizing rural and swing states over the nation’s majority. But others say the Electoral College, which the Founders established in the Constitution, is necessary to ensure voters in

Oct 25, 2024 • 53:15

Will Kamala Harris or Donald Trump Be Better For America?

Will Kamala Harris or Donald Trump Be Better For America?

Would Vice President Kamala Harris or Donald Trump be better for America? In a unique twist on political debate, two comedians, Pete Dominick, host of the “Stand Up! With Pete Dominick” podcast, and Fox News host Jimmy Failla, step into each candidate’s shoes where they will debate hot-button issues like the economy, immigration, and foreign policy that have defined the 2024 election.  Arguing for the Left: Pete Dominick, Stand-Up Comic; Activist and Advocate; Host of "Stand Up! With Pete Domini

Oct 18, 2024 • 53:15

Should Israel Strike Iran?

Should Israel Strike Iran?

Tensions between Iran and Israel have escalated in recent months and are at a low point after a series of assassinations and rocket strikes. Is it time for a larger military response? Those who urge Israel to strike argue Iran is an existential threat to their survival. Those who are against striking Iran in an unprecedented way say that there are high risks and better options. Now we debate: Should Israel Strike Iran?  Arguing Yes: Michael Doran, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Pea

Oct 11, 2024 • 53:15

Were Israel's Actions in the Gaza War Justified?

Were Israel's Actions in the Gaza War Justified?

The Israel-Hamas War has led to increasing death tolls and instability in the Middle East. Was Israel’s response to October 7th justified? Those who believe Israel’s actions have been disproportionate point to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including a rising civilian death toll. Those who argue in support of Israel's response argue Israel had the right to defend itself when under attack, secure the safety of the hostages taken, and must do all it can to defeat Hamas. Now we debate: Were Israe

Oct 4, 2024 • 53:15

Election 2024: Are Identity Politics Holding Us Back?

Election 2024: Are Identity Politics Holding Us Back?

During election seasons, Democrats and Republicans leverage identity-based platforms to engage voters. Those who think identity politics isn’t holding us back argue identity politics offers a pathway for inclusion and empowerment for historically-sidelined groups. Those who believe it does hold us back argue it prevents constructive dialogue on solutions that benefit everyone, and risks alienating large segments of the population. Now we debate: In the 2024 Presidential Election, Are Identity Po

Sep 27, 2024 • 53:15

Should We Legalize the Market for Human Organs?

Should We Legalize the Market for Human Organs?

There are currently 103,000 people in the U.S. waiting for life-saving organ transplants and 17 people die each day waiting for one. The demand for organ transplants worldwide far exceeds the supply due to a reliance on altruistic donations in most countries. Some economists and health experts wonder whether creating a free or regulated market for selling human organs would solve this issue. Those in support of a market argue that each person has a choice to decide what they want to do with thei

Sep 20, 2024 • 53:15

Is the ICC’s Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Justified?

Is the ICC’s Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Justified?

The ICC has requested an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concerning possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Israel-Hamas War. Is it fair to put his actions on the same level as Hamas? Those who disagree argue that the ICC doesn’t have legal jurisdiction in this case and it’s politically motivated. Those who agree argue it’s a necessary step in enforcing international law and holding accountability. Now we debate: Is the ICC’s Warrant Against Netanyahu

Sep 13, 2024 • 53:15

Wokeness in Public Schools: Helping or Hurting Students?

Wokeness in Public Schools: Helping or Hurting Students?

Public schools have in recent years begun incorporating topics around race, sex, and gender into K-12 classrooms. Are public schools moving in the right direction to address students’ needs? Those who say students benefit argue that learning them helps create socially aware, empathetic, and responsible citizens. Those who argue they harm students say children may be learning what should be left to parents to discuss. Now we debate: Wokeness in Public Schools: Helping or Hurting Students?  Learn

Sep 6, 2024 • 53:15

Does America Need a Third Party?

Does America Need a Third Party?

While the two-party system has been the standard in the US government, third parties have often challenged this status quo and now advocates to be added to election ballots permanently. Those who agree say third parties offer non-partisan solutions and are more representative of ideologies, unlike the polarized partisanship present now. Those who disagree say the two-party system fosters stability and simplifies voting decisions. Now we debate: Does America Need A Third Party?   Arguing Yes: And

Aug 30, 2024 • 53:15

Does the Effective Altruism Movement Get Giving Right?

Does the Effective Altruism Movement Get Giving Right?

Effective altruism is a philosophical and social movement that uses empirical data to maximize the impact of charitable efforts. Those who champion EA praise its methodological framework for maximizing the effectiveness of donations, thus ensuring equal consideration for all individuals. Those who challenge EA argue that its emphasis on measurable outcomes may overlook important yet hard-to-quantify causes, potentially restricting the scope of what's considered beneficial. Now we debate: Does th

Aug 23, 2024 • 53:15

America the Dysfunctional with Brian Tyler Cohen

America the Dysfunctional with Brian Tyler Cohen

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 16, 2024 • 53:15

Can Israel Make Peace with Hamas?

Can Israel Make Peace with Hamas?

After the October 7th attack, Israel vowed to eradicate Hamas and began its counteroperation in Gaza. Now, after ten months of war, a hostage crisis, and an increasing death toll, Israel and Hamas have been in negotiation talks, which could be complicated by the death of Hamas’s political leader Ismail Haniyeh. Should Israel agree to a permanent ceasefire? Those who think Israel should make peace with Hamas argue that while Hamas’s actions are indefensible, a de-escalation of violence is necessa

Aug 9, 2024 • 53:15

Is the Two-State Solution Still Viable?

Is the Two-State Solution Still Viable?

The two-state solution proposes establishing a separate Palestinian state alongside Israel as one way to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But post-October 7th and the ongoing war, is it still a possible outcome? Those who say “yes” argue it’s the most logical path toward achieving regional peace. Those who disagree say that the current circumstances and previous failed attempts makes the solution unlikely. Now we debate, in partnership with the Council on Foreign Relations: Is the Two-State

Aug 2, 2024 • 53:15

Mock Trial: Should Trump’s Conviction Stand?

Mock Trial: Should Trump’s Conviction Stand?

Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, but legal scholars question whether it could be overturned in an appeal or due to a new Supreme Court ruling. Those arguing for New York say no individual, even a president, is above the law. Those arguing for the defendant say his actions were within the scope of his official duties. Now we debate: Mock Trial: Should Trump’s Conviction Stand? For the Appellee: Erwin Chemerinsky, Dean of the UC Berkeley School of

Jul 26, 2024 • 53:15

Should Biden Step Aside?

Should Biden Step Aside?

President Biden continues to dismiss concerns about seeking re-election. But after a disappointing debate performance, some Democratic leaders are increasingly concerned about whether he’s still fit to lead. Those in support of Biden argue his withdrawal would fragment Democrats and they don’t want to risk losing undecided voters to Trump. Those calling for him to step aside argue that a new candidate could re-energize the Democratic base and improve election chances. Now, we debate: Should Bide

Jul 18, 2024 • 53:15

History Lessons About Combatting Polarization in 2024 with Fareed Zakaria

History Lessons About Combatting Polarization in 2024 with Fareed Zakaria

From AI to the political climate during an election year, our modern world is constantly changing and facing more polarization than before. How can we combat it and adapt to a changing America? CNN host and bestselling author Fareed Zakaria says you have to be open-minded and embrace compromise. In this conversation with John Donvan, Zakaria discusses our current revolutionary times, how past revolutions can help us understand our present, and why despite everything, he’s still hopeful. Our Gue

Jul 12, 2024 • 53:15

Is Wokeness Killing Comedy?

Is Wokeness Killing Comedy?

What George Carlin jokes would be deemed offensive today? What makes us laugh has come under scrutiny. Old jokes or skits are often off-limits in today's context, leading to public apologies and cancellations. Some argue political correctness stifles comedic creativity, thus affecting their ability to tackle tough subjects. Those who disagree say comedy has always evolved with changing norms and it can still flourish within wokeness. This week we revisit one of our favorite debates from the past

Jul 5, 2024 • 53:15

Married or Single?

Married or Single?

Marriage has long been considered a goal to aspire to and a conventional path to happiness. But over the last few decades, the traditional view of marriage as the cornerstone of adult life has been questioned. Changes in economic conditions, gender roles, and cultural values have fueled a reevaluation of whether marriage is still desirable or necessary for personal fulfillment and social stability. Those who believe it’s better to get married argue that married individuals report better physical

Jun 28, 2024 • 53:15

Is Islam Antisemitic?

Is Islam Antisemitic?

Though they share similar values, guidelines, and principles, Islam and Judaism have a long, complicated relationship that has led to tension recorded within the Quran that might engender antisemitism. Those who agree argue that certain Quranic verses could be used to justify some people’s hostility towards Jews. Those who disagree say that references to Jews must be understood in their historical and textual contexts and there have been multiple periods of Muslim-Jewish tolerance. Now we debate

Jun 21, 2024 • 53:15

MOCK TRIAL: Murthy v. Missouri - Free speech, Government and Misinformation on Social Media Platforms

MOCK TRIAL: Murthy v. Missouri - Free speech, Government and Misinformation on Social Media Platforms

The Supreme Court will soon decide on a case whether government interference on social media is coercive and suppresses free speech. Those who argue legitimate cooperation say that where misinformation threatens public health or safety, they are justified to protect the public. Those argue coercion believe that increased content moderation could lead to authoritarian control over public discourse online. Now we debate: Mock Trial: Free Speech, Government, and Misinformation on Social Media Platf

Jun 14, 2024 • 53:15

Is It OK to Pay for Sex?

Is It OK to Pay for Sex?

Prostitution remains heavily stigmatized and legally complex globally, ranging from full decriminalization to controlled regulation like the Nordic Model, where only purchasers of sex, not sellers of sex are penalized. This model has been implemented in eight countries, including Sweden, Iceland, Canada, and France, as well as in the U.S. state of Maine. Those who argue that it is ok to pay for sex say that it’s a profession that deserves as much respect as any other and that those who do it for

Jun 7, 2024 • 53:15

Is Taiwan Indefensible?

Is Taiwan Indefensible?

China recently conducted two days of military exercises around Taiwan as a “punishment” for “separatist acts” by Taiwan’s new president. Beijing sees Taiwan as territory that needs to be “reunified” with the mainland, while the U.S. is Taiwan’s strongest backer. Some argue that China’s military presence is too large to stop and the island nation is indefensible. Those who disagree argue that American credibility is on the line and they should stand by their political posturing. Now we d

May 31, 2024 • 53:15

Young Voices Debate Tough Topics: DEI and Climate Change

Young Voices Debate Tough Topics: DEI and Climate Change

Two days. Four questions. Ten judges and high school students participating in the national championship run by Incubate Debate, the U.S.’s fastest-growing high school debate league. This is what civil debate in the public square looks like — and what it can be across the country. Join us as we follow eight students who debate the following questions: “Should College DEI Programs Be Abolished?” and “Is Climate Change An Emergency?”  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices

May 24, 2024 • 53:15

The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?

The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?

Happiness is a complex emotion and mental state that can be achieved through virtue or pleasure. But should it be for the good of the individual or society? Those in favor of virtue point to the Stoics and the Founding Fathers, saying you should strive for a life of moral virtue and rationality. Those in favor of pleasure say everyone should be able to experience it and define their sources of happiness. Now we debate: The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure? Arguing Virtue: Jeffre

May 17, 2024 • 53:15

MOCK TRIAL: Should the Courts Restrict Access to the Abortion Pill?

MOCK TRIAL: Should the Courts Restrict Access to the Abortion Pill?

The Supreme Court will soon decide on a case surrounding a medication used for abortion, mifepristone, and whether the drug should continue to be available based on claims of safety and ethical considerations. Those in favor of restrictions argue that the FDA fast-tracked its approval without considering health impacts. Those against restriction argue the FDA made its decisions based on safety and efficiency, and it’s being targeted to further infringe on women’s rights. Now we debate:

May 10, 2024 • 53:15

Should Elite Universities Reinstate the SAT?

Should Elite Universities Reinstate the SAT?

Many colleges during the pandemic decided to make their applications test-optional, but new research has elite colleges rethinking that policy. Those in favor of reinstating say the SAT is the best way to bring talented students from all socioeconomic levels into the fold. Those against it say it favors the affluent and argue that admissions decisions should be based on a holistic, more inclusive review that considers a wide range of factors Now we debate: Should Elite Universities Reinstate the

May 3, 2024 • 53:15

Is Free Speech Threatened on Campus?

Is Free Speech Threatened on Campus?

Tensions have been ramping up at universities across the country as students continue to protest the war in Gaza. Reports of antisemitism, islamophobia, and harassment have led to concerns that some students have crossed a line into hateful and threatening speech that requires intervention. Others contend that efforts to clamp down on protests in the name of campus safety suppresses free speech. Within that context, we revisit this debate on adjacent issues from a few years back to see

Apr 26, 2024 • 53:15

Ban the Box: Should We Banish the Criminal History Check Box from Job Applications?

Ban the Box: Should We Banish the Criminal History Check Box from Job Applications?

Former criminal offenders in the United States face challenges reentering the job market after incarceration and so-called “Ban the Box” policies aim to fix this. This criminal justice initiative calls for removing questions about criminal history from job applications and delaying background checks. Those against "the box" argue former offenders shouldn’t continue to be punished and it prevents societal reintegration. Those in favor of early screening argue employers have a responsibility to en

Apr 19, 2024 • 53:15

Should Congress Stop Funding the War in Ukraine?

Should Congress Stop Funding the War in Ukraine?

The U.S. has provided more than $75 billion in aid to Ukraine in its war against Russia. Some Congress members question whether we have done enough to help, and they say increased funding sustains strategic interests and demonstrates support of democratic values. Those who say we should stop funding the war, argue that Ukraine can’t win and additional U.S. dollars will prolong the loss of human lives and territory. Now we debate, in partnership with the Council on Foreign Relations: Sho

Apr 12, 2024 • 53:15

Is Religion a Force for Good?

Is Religion a Force for Good?

Religion has long shaped human civilization, and many have wondered whether it’s good for society. Those who argue “yes” say it offers a sense of identity and belonging and provides a moral compass to do good acts. Those who argue “no” say that religious beliefs are a source of historical and conflict and discrimination and can hinder social progress that clash with modern values. Now we debate: Is Religion a Force for Good?  Arguing Yes: Shadi Hamid, Columnist and Editorial Board Member of The

Apr 5, 2024 • 53:15

Childhood Obesity Guidelines: Good Medicine or Too Extreme?

Childhood Obesity Guidelines: Good Medicine or Too Extreme?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently released new guidelines to address childhood obesity, affecting over 14 million children, including recommendations for weight loss medications and surgery. Those who consider the guidelines good medicine say that it is a step forward in recognizing obesity as a condition requiring a range of medical interventions. Those who think the guidelines are too extreme worry these approaches could impact mental health and body image, contributing to weight sti

Mar 29, 2024 • 53:15

Should the US Ban Tik Tok?

Should the US Ban Tik Tok?

With one billion active users across more than 150 countries, TikTok is by many measures one of the world’s most successful video apps — and half of Americans use it. The House of Representatives has passed a bill that could ban the social media company in the U.S. if its parent company, Bytedance, does not divest from it and requires TikTok to be bought by a country that is not a U.S. adversary. Those supporting such a move often point to a ban on another Chinese tech giant, Huawei, as an effec

Mar 22, 2024 • 53:15

Does Taylor Swift Deserve Her Billion Dollar Fortune?

Does Taylor Swift Deserve Her Billion Dollar Fortune?

Taylor Swift achieved her billionaire status because of her talent, work ethic, and support from her fans. But some question whether any individual should be able to accumulate so much wealth. Those arguing they should point to philosopher Robert Nozick, who says if someone acquires wealth through just means, they are entitled to it. Those arguing “no” say that luck and systemic advantages often play a role, sometimes involving exploitation, and that billionaires have an outsized influence on po

Mar 15, 2024 • 53:15

Should We Address the Gender Wage Gap?

Should We Address the Gender Wage Gap?

American women are, on average, paid 84 cents for every dollar men make, according to the Department of Labor. This wage gap has persisted despite near-record rates of women’s participation in the labor market, with wage gaps even larger for women in minority populations, and it’s estimated that pay parity will not be achieved until 2052. Should policy interventions address these disparities, or is it more important to recognize and honor women's personal decisions and find another way to look a

Mar 8, 2024 • 53:15

Has Citizens United Undermined Democracy?

Has Citizens United Undermined Democracy?

In a high-stakes presidential election year, in partnership with the Newt and Jo Minow Debate Series at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, Open to Debate is taking a look at more than a decade of the Citizens United Supreme Court case. The 2010 landmark decision that ruled the free speech clause of the First Amendment prohibits the government from restricting independent expenditures for political communications by corporations, including nonprofits, labor unions, and other associations, c

Mar 1, 2024 • 57:28

Debate: Coleman Hughes and Jamelle Bouie on Color Blindness for Black History Month

Debate: Coleman Hughes and Jamelle Bouie on Color Blindness for Black History Month

During Black History Month, we reflect on a debate that confronts America’s complex history with racial and social inequality. How can we ensure fair treatment for all in the workplace, on campuses, and in our personal interactions? Is it possible to imagine a future beyond race? As we honor this month of remembrance and celebration, we revisit a conversation that confronts the challenges of our past and the promise of a future that aspires to secure equitable opportunities for all.     Arguing

Feb 23, 2024 • 53:15

Unresolved: The Iran Threat

Unresolved: The Iran Threat

Iran’s regional role has changed post-October 7, but is Iran a bigger global threat than we think? In partnership with the Council on Foreign Relations, National Security Council and State Department veterans will debate in our Unresolved format Biden’s Iran diplomacy, Iran's use of proxies in the Middle East, its nuclear ambitions, and whether Iran now poses a threat to the global order.  Michael Doran, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East at the Hu

Feb 16, 2024 • 53:15

How to Resolve Conflict in Relationships: A Conversation with Esther Perel

How to Resolve Conflict in Relationships: A Conversation with Esther Perel

Couples have arguments over many topics. However, it’s through resolving conflict that both people in the relationship feel heard and seen. Psychotherapist, relationship expert, and New York Times-bestselling author Esther Perel says conflict when navigated skillfully can lead to growth, resilience, and a stronger bond. In this conversation with John Donvan, Perel discusses her new online course, shares her experience working with different relationship types, strategies for transforming conflic

Feb 9, 2024 • 53:15

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

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

Whoever wins the 2024 election will soon face a critical decision about extending four trillion dollars in tax cuts expiring next year. Whether taxes will be raised, or cut is in question, against the backdrop of 34.1 trillion dollars in federal debt. For the past few decades, the Republican Party has embraced the belief that lower tax rates and less government spending boost the U.S. economy. However, there is disagreement among conservative thought leaders about the way forward on taxes for th

Feb 2, 2024 • 53:15

Is Engineering Solar Radiation A Crazy Idea?

Is Engineering Solar Radiation A Crazy Idea?

Right now, climate engineers are working on new technologies, called solar geoengineering, that would reflect the sun’s rays away from Earth as a way to cool the planet. Those in favor argue it would be inexpensive and effective, and could buy us time to get carbon emissions down before the worst impacts of climate change. But others argue it would distract from the underlying issues of climate change and express concern about who would control such a powerful technology. So we debate: Is Engine

Jan 26, 2024 • 53:15

Is the American Dream in Decline?

Is the American Dream in Decline?

The American Dream – the idea that anyone can achieve success in the U.S. through hard work and determination – is under scrutiny, and some worry it’s no longer achievable for the broader population. Those who agree say increasing healthcare, education, and housing costs create difficulty in having financial stability. Those who disagree argue that the U.S. still offers more opportunities for personal and financial growth than elsewhere. Now we debate: Is the American Dream in Decline? Arguing

Jan 19, 2024 • 53:15

David Petraeus and Andrew Roberts on Conflict, War, and Debate

David Petraeus and Andrew Roberts on Conflict, War, and Debate

Debate is a form of conflict that is played out through civility, and the capability to exchange ideas with people we disagree with. But what leads leaders and countries to fall into conflict? In this conversation with Retired U.S. Army General David H. Petraeus and historian Lord Andrew Roberts, guest moderator Xenia Wickett speaks with them about their new book, the nature of military conflict, and how civil debate and conflict are intertwined.    Our Guests:     General David H. Petraeus, U.S

Jan 12, 2024 • 53:15

Mock Trial: Is Trump Guilty in the January 6th Case?

Mock Trial: Is Trump Guilty in the January 6th Case?

After the 2020 election, former President Trump discredited the election results. The January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol and Trump’s federal indictment on four charges are tied to his claims. The defense claims proof is needed he had planned to commit a crime and he conducted himself under legal advice. The prosecution argues his actions showed criminal intent to defraud the U.S. and was done knowingly. Now we debate: Is Trump Guilty in the January 6th Case?   Prosecutor: Lanny Davis, Attorney

Jan 5, 2024 • 53:15

David Brooks on the Art of Seeing and Hearing Others

David Brooks on the Art of Seeing and Hearing Others

With polarization rising within our society and two wars encouraging division, people are feeling more afraid to engage with people who have differing perspectives. How can we solve that issue, build deeper connections, and get to know someone? New York Times columnist David Brooks says you help them feel seen and understood. John Donvan sits down with Brooks to discuss his book “How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen”, how to foster connections in daily life

Dec 29, 2023 • 53:15

Will the Future Be Abundant?

Will the Future Be Abundant?

Today, humanity is thriving, but there are fears the good times will not last. Will tomorrow be better than today? Those arguing “yes” say people have better access to resources and technological advances are making us more prosperous. Those arguing “no” say there are widening socio-economic disparities, our globalized world is bound to collapse, and we’re not doing enough to fight climate change. Now we debate: Will the Future Be Abundant? Arguing Yes: Peter Diamandis, Founder and Exec

Dec 22, 2023 • 53:15

Should Congress Pass the Secure the Border Act?

Should Congress Pass the Secure the Border Act?

In response to a surge in migrants and asylum seekers at America’s borders, the Secure the Border Act of 2023 aims to enforce stricter limitations on immigration, migrants, and more. Those arguing for passage say it is a necessary response to improve national security and modernize border security infrastructure. Those against it are concerned about the humanitarian impact and question its effectiveness. Now we debate: Should Congress Pass the Secure the Border Act?  Arguing Yes: Jessica Vaugha

Dec 15, 2023 • 53:15

Will AI Kill the Future of the Creative Arts?

Will AI Kill the Future of the Creative Arts?

From AI-generated paintings to writing scripts and novels, AI is challenging our endeavor to create, innovate, and connect. Will the human touch be obsolete? Those arguing yes say since AI-created art can’t experience human emotions, it will lack depth, and it will come at an economic cost for human artists. Those arguing no say it’s another tool in a toolkit and will help express talent like never before. Now we debate: Will AI Kill the Future of the Creative Arts?  Arguing Yes: Jonathan Tapli

Dec 8, 2023 • 53:15

How Would A No Labels Presidential Candidate Change the Outcome in 2024?

How Would A No Labels Presidential Candidate Change the Outcome in 2024?

The centrist group No Labels is planning a bipartisan nominating convention, leading to speculation that they may promote a third-party candidate for voters who don’t support Donald Trump or Joe Biden. Those who agree say a third-party ticket will affect the election by helping Trump get more votes and diluting opposition. Those who disagree say voters may like the third-party candidate better, reducing Trump’s chances. Now we debate: “How Would A No Labels Presidential Candidate Change

Dec 1, 2023 • 53:15

A primer for discussing Israel and Gaza and our divided American political landscape: John Donvan in discussion with author Mónica Guzmán

A primer for discussing Israel and Gaza and our divided American political landscape: John Donvan in discussion with author Mónica Guzmán

How can you have meaningful conversations in increasingly divided times, whether it’s against the backdrop of American politics or the Israel-Gaza war? To author Mónica Guzmán, it’s by asking yourself, “What am I missing?” John Donvan sits down with Guzmán to talk about her work at Braver Angels, staying hopeful in times of conflict or during world events, and why using curiosity to navigate today’s polarized landscape is easier than you think.     Mónica Guzmán is the author of "How to Have Fea

Nov 24, 2023 • 53:15

Do We Have Free Will?

Do We Have Free Will?

Are we the true authors of our actions – or are we guided by a preordained fate? From the days of Greek philosophers to the present, the notion of free will and the question of whether humans can make their own choices is as captivating as ever. Those who think that free will exists consider it foundational to a rules-based society since it holds individuals accountable for their actions. Those who don’t believe in it argue everything that happens to us, and our actions and choices, is

Nov 17, 2023 • 53:15

Is Wokeness Killing Comedy?

Is Wokeness Killing Comedy?

What Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, or Eddie Murphy jokes would be deemed offensive by today’s standards? From comedy specials to TV shows and movies, what makes us laugh has come under scrutiny. Some old jokes and racy skits are considered off-limits in today's context, leading to public apologies, cancellations, and backlash. While society wants more inclusivity and awareness, comedy has now become a cultural battleground. Some argue that political correctness will stifle comedic creativ

Nov 10, 2023 • 53:15

Are DEI Mandates for University Faculties a Bad Idea?

Are DEI Mandates for University Faculties a Bad Idea?

More American colleges are adopting DEI as a core value, affecting professors' tenure, hiring, and promotion. Has what was intended as solidarity turned into a “loyalty oath”? Those who agree say evaluations based on DEI statements harm professors who may not embrace an agenda, affecting academic freedom. Those disagreeing say the statements aren’t intended to push a viewpoint but to reward a professor’s actions. Now we debate: “Are DEI Mandates for University Faculties a Bad Idea? Arguing Yes:

Nov 3, 2023 • 53:15

Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism?

Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism?

Zionism — the belief that the Jewish people have a right to statehood in Israel — has been debated for decades. But facing increased anti-Semitic violence around the world, some argue that criticizing it is anti-Semitic and Israel has a historical and political right to self-determination. Others say their concerns about Israel’s actions— particularly regarding Palestinian rights and sovereignty — are legitimate. Now we debate: Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism? (Note: This debate was origin

Oct 27, 2023 • 53:15

Does Economic Growth Cost Too Much?

Does Economic Growth Cost Too Much?

Economic growth is a central goal of many economies, but there are questions about how sustainable relentless growth is. Those arguing “yes” say the right measurements aren’t being used for societal well-being and how much it costs the environment, and call for a new economic model for more equitable and sustainable futures. Those arguing “no” say growth drives today’s prosperity, brings public good, and fuels advancements. Now we debate: Does Economic Growth Cost Too Much?  Arguing Ye

Oct 20, 2023 • 53:15

Should Artists Be Allowed to Borrow From Cultures Besides Their Own?

Should Artists Be Allowed to Borrow From Cultures Besides Their Own?

Modern art, runway fashion, and music today are in the middle of a cultural reckoning, where artists must find a balance between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. Those in support of borrowing say placing restrictions on what artists can be inspired by may stifle artistic expression. Those against it say doing so erases a tradition’s context while echoing past mistreatment. Now we debate: Should Artists Be Allowed to Borrow From Cultures Besides Their Own?  Arguing Yes: Yascha Mo

Sep 29, 2023 • 53:15

Should Ukraine Get Russia's Frozen Assets?

Should Ukraine Get Russia's Frozen Assets?

After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, economic sanctions led to frozen Russian assets abroad inaccessible and could be relocated to Ukraine. Those arguing yes say it would serve as restitution for Russia’s aggression and compensate for damages and economic disruptions. Those arguing no say relocating the frozen assets could set a concerning precedent, leading to escalated tensions and retaliatory actions. Now we debate: Should Ukraine Get Russia’s Frozen Assets? Arguing Yes: L

Sep 28, 2023 • 53:15

Is Modi's India Heading in the Right Direction?

Is Modi's India Heading in the Right Direction?

Under prime minister Narendra Modi, pro-Hindu nationalism and civil rights issues have led to India’s downgrade to an electoral autocracy (according to V-Dem Institute), and many question whether better times are ahead. Those who agree with Modi’s leadership highlight the new strong economic growth as well as his efforts to improve India’s global influence. Those who disagree point to increasingly divisive policies and their effects on the non-Hindu population. Now we debate: Is Modi’s India Hea

Sep 22, 2023 • 53:15

Does America Need A Third Party?

Does America Need A Third Party?

While the two-party system has been the standard in the US government, third parties have often challenged this status quo and now advocates to be added to election ballots permanently. Those who agree say third parties offer non-partisan solutions and are more representative of ideologies, unlike the polarized partisanship present now. Those who disagree say the two-party system fosters stability and simplifies voting decisions. Now we debate: Does America Need A Third Party? Arguing Yes: Andr

Sep 15, 2023 • 53:15

Is Legalizing Marijuana a Mistake?

Is Legalizing Marijuana a Mistake?

According to an October 2022 Pew survey, “88% of US adults say that marijuana should be legal for medical and recreational use.” While marijuana legalization is gaining more and more cultural acceptance, effectively regulating drugs has long flummoxed policy and lawmakers. Some are even starting to have second thoughts, especially when it comes to how to practically enforce legal sales. In fact, voters in Oklahoma – one of the nation’s leading weed markets –overwhelmingly rejected recre

Sep 8, 2023 • 53:15

Is Objectivity Essential to Journalism?

Is Objectivity Essential to Journalism?

For decades, objectivity has been cited as journalism's gold standard, promising that journalists would stick “to the facts" and deliver both sides of the story, excluding their personal views. Those in support say it builds trust and gives newsreaders the information they need to form their own opinions. Those against say it suppresses certain valuable viewpoints and that some issues don’t merit the "both sides" treatment. Now, we debate: "Is Objectivity Essential in Journalism?”Arguin

Aug 25, 2023 • 53:13

Should we Erase Bad Memories?

Should we Erase Bad Memories?

Similar to Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, neurotechnology techniques like decoded neurofeedback open the possibility of modifying or erasing memories that aren’t pleasant or beneficial to our well-being. Those in favor argue it could help offer a path to a mentally healthier and happier life. Those against it say that tampering with memories could be dangerous to our sense of self and undermine our experiences. Now we debate: Should We Erase Bad Memories?  Arguing Yes:  Nita Far

Aug 18, 2023 • 53:15

Does Color Blindness Perpetuate Racism?

Does Color Blindness Perpetuate Racism?

When you think about the world’s most intractable problems, racial inequality is among the most challenging. Societies have grappled not just with how to treat community members equitably in public spaces, but how to judge individuals based on qualities that extend beyond race in personal interactions. For many decades, some have pointed to “color blindness,” or treating people without regard to race or ethnicity, as the best way to promote equal opportunity. But, there are many who believe the

Aug 11, 2023 • 53:15

Should NATO Admit Ukraine?

Should NATO Admit Ukraine?

In the wake of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has applied on a fast-track membership bid to join NATO. Those who argue “yes” say admitting Ukraine would keep the country protected, affirm its sovereignty, and solidify alignment with the West. Those who argue “no” say it will provoke Putin, escalate the conflict, and that it doesn’t yet meet NATO’s standards. Now we debate: Should NATO Admit Ukraine?  Arguing Yes: Garry Kasparov, Founder of the Renew Democracy Initiative and former World Chess Cha

Aug 5, 2023 • 53:15

Is Social Media Bad For Kids' Mental Health?

Is Social Media Bad For Kids' Mental Health?

Social media platforms have become an integral part of the modern digital landscape, shaping how young individuals connect, communicate, and perceive the world around them. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential negative consequences on children's mental well-being. Even recently, the US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released an advisory stating there’s a risk of profound harm to children and adolescents' mental health and well-being. Those who agree claim that excessive s

Jul 28, 2023 • 53:15

Is the FDA Too Cautious?

Is the FDA Too Cautious?

While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) needs to approve safe and effective drugs as quickly as possible to patients who need them, it must also maintain the diligence and rigor necessary to prevent harm. Two health experts look at the pace of FDA approvals and argue about whether the agency is getting it right on keeping the public safe or stifling health innovations. Now we debate: Is the FDA Too Cautious? Arguing Yes: Colin Hill, CEO & Co-Founder, Aitia   Arguing No: Peter L

Jul 21, 2023 • 53:15

Should Prosecutors Pursue Minor Crimes?

Should Prosecutors Pursue Minor Crimes?

In the US, misdemeanors count for 80% of cases filed annually, but district attorneys around the country are implementing policies stating they’ll no longer prosecute certain low-level, nonviolent crimes. Those who argue “yes” say it keeps communities safe and not strengthening sentencing will let violent criminals back in public and increase crime. Those who argue “no” say it doesn’t deter criminals and distracts from better solutions. Now, we debate: “Should Prosecutors Pursue Minor Crimes?”

Jul 7, 2023 • 53:15

Will Millennials Be Left Behind?

Will Millennials Be Left Behind?

The oldest members of the Millennial generation are reaching their forties and feel they’ve been left behind emotionally and financially. Those who agree say Millennials pay more for basic items, leading them unable to afford to buy a home or have children. Those who disagree say that not buying a house or having kids are their choices and they will soon be doing well financially. With this context, we debate: Will Millennials Be Left Behind?    Arguing Yes: Jill Filipovic, Journalist, lawyer, a

Jun 30, 2023 • 53:15

Should the Government Raise the Retirement Age?

Should the Government Raise the Retirement Age?

The age of eligibility for full Social Security benefits is currently 67, but the cash reserves behind it are expected to run out by 2034. Those arguing “yes” to raising the retirement age say people these days are living longer, and it will lead to more economic growth. Those arguing “no” say not everyone is able to work longer and it’ll make large benefit cuts. Now we debate: Should the Government Raise the Retirement Age? Arguing Yes: Marc Goldwein, Senior Vice President and Senior P

Jun 23, 2023 • 53:15

Should SCOTUS Focus on the Original Meaning of the Constitution?

Should SCOTUS Focus on the Original Meaning of the Constitution?

Originalism is a way of interpreting the Constitution that could help it be understood through either framer’s intent or what the public would’ve intended at the Constitution’s ratification. Supporters say the Constitution needs modern interpretation, even if some pre-existing circumstances are nonexistent. Others argue it doesn’t make sense to keep our laws limited to what society back then would’ve valued.  In this context, we debate: Should the Supreme Court Focus on the Original Meaning of

Jun 9, 2023 • 53:15

Should Congress Abolish the Debt Ceiling?

Should Congress Abolish the Debt Ceiling?

The US has more than $31 trillion in national debt. If it is breached, the government may go into default, leading to national and global consequences. Supporters in favor of abolishing the debt ceiling say it is counterproductive, leads to political drama, and an economic threat. Those arguing “no” say it’s an effective tool of governance that allows discussion about national spending and keeps lawmakers accountable. Now we debate: Should Congress Abolish the Debt Ceiling?  Arguing Yes

Jun 2, 2023 • 53:15

Is Netanyahu's Government Heading in the Wrong Direction?

Is Netanyahu's Government Heading in the Wrong Direction?

Since his 2022 re-election, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has introduced plans for a new judiciary reform, leading to large-scale public protests. Supporters say these changes will better balance the power between lawmakers and judges and bring Israel’s judiciary system closer to other countries. Others argue these reforms will undermine the judiciary branch’s independence and affect the country’s relationship with the U.S. and Palestinians. So we debate: Is Netanyahu’s Government He

May 26, 2023 • 53:15

Should Certain Books Be Banned in School?

Should Certain Books Be Banned in School?

Are certain books beyond reproach? It’s a fundamental question making its way across America’s school boards. Those who argue “yes” say schools should not expose children to topics they deem inappropriate like gender, sexuality, and race. Others say that reading controversial books fosters critical thinking, encourages empathy, and that professional educators should be involved in guiding students through such literature. In this context, we debate: Should Certain Books Be Banned in School?  Lea

May 19, 2023 • 53:15

What Does It Mean to "Win" An Argument?  Mehdi Hasan in Conversation with John Donvan

What Does It Mean to "Win" An Argument? Mehdi Hasan in Conversation with John Donvan

How can we argue in good faith? How can we communicate with confidence? How can we uncover new ideas through the art of debate? Journalist, broadcaster, and best-selling author Mehdi Hasan has made a career out of doing just that. Named one of the 100 'most influential' Britons on Twitter, and included in the annual global list of 'The 500 Most Influential Muslims' in the world, Hasan has become a bit an expert on deconstructing arguments and nudged disagreements toward mutual understan

May 12, 2023 • 53:15

Is Carbon Capture Essential to Fighting Climate Change?

Is Carbon Capture Essential to Fighting Climate Change?

When it comes to carbon dioxide, last year was a record year. The world emitted more of the climate-warming gas in 2022 than in any year since scientists began recording levels in 1900. The culprit, says the International Energy Agency, is society’s voracious appetite for fossil fuels, and the need to burn them. So … what can be done to prevent dangerous levels of warming? One potential method is called carbon capture and storage, a technology in which CO2 is extracted and stored in und

May 5, 2023 • 53:15

Is Florida Eating New York's Lunch?

Is Florida Eating New York's Lunch?

Last year was a banner year for those trading the New York chill for the Florida sun. Thirty-nine percent of Empire Staters packed up and moved to the Sunshine State, more than any year in history. In fact, recent census data revealed 1.6 million former New Yorkers (or 8% of Florida’s total population) now call Florida home — and it’s not just retirees. Favorable tax policies are fueling Florida’s popularity, attracting top businesses, budding entrepreneurs, and so-called one-percenters, such as

Apr 28, 2023 • 53:16

Is the Banking System Safer Than It Was in 2008?

Is the Banking System Safer Than It Was in 2008?

When the Great Recession struck, it was the start of the most significant economic downturn since the Great Depression of the 1930s. A slumping housing market revealed vulnerabilities of huge numbers of mortgage-backed securities and derivatives. In the aftermath, unemployment soared to 10%. GDP dropped by more than 4%, and federal authorities unleashed a series of unprecedented fiscal and monetary policies aimed at stemming the bleeding. When the dust finally settled, legislators and r

Apr 21, 2023 • 53:17

Are Men Finished and Should We Help Them?

Are Men Finished and Should We Help Them?

By several measures, men are in trouble. Women outnumber them in college enrollment. And even once there, men are not as likely to graduate. Men also face higher levels of substance abuse, higher numbers of overdoses, higher incarceration rates, lower life expectancies, and suicide levels that are nearly four times more likely than women. In this context we debate the question: Are Men Finished and Should We Help Them?  Arguing Yes: Richard Reeves, Brookings Institution Senior Fellow  A

Apr 14, 2023 • 53:16

Is The Democratic Party Too Far Left?

Is The Democratic Party Too Far Left?

Defund the police. Abolish ICE. Redistribute the wealth. These are but a few of the one-liners that have emanated from the liberal wing of the Democratic party in recent years. With the emergence of “The Squad” in 2018 – or what began as four Democratic congresswomen who sought to push their party further left – liberal lawmakers have grown more prevalent in recent election cycles. And with just a slim 51-49 Democrat majority in the Senate, progressives are now eyeing 2024 as a way to s

Apr 7, 2023 • 53:16

Is America Too Obsessed With Race?

Is America Too Obsessed With Race?

Sixty years ago, in the sweltering August heat of Washington D.C., the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his most iconic speech, and a defining moment of the civil rights movement. "I have a dream,” he said before a crowd of some 250,000 people, pressed up to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, “that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." It is a sentence that has been

Mar 31, 2023 • 53:17

Should the FTC Ban Non-compete Clauses?

Should the FTC Ban Non-compete Clauses?

This year, the Federal Trade Commission decided shake up the labor market, proposing to ban non-compete clauses for the tens of millions of workers they affect. The clauses are essentially contracts between employers and employees that prohibit the former from competing with the business after the employment has ended. As many as 30% of all U.S. private sector workers have signed such agreements, which actually find their roots all the way back in 15th century England. Those who defend

Mar 24, 2023 • 52:45

John Donvan In Conversation with David McRaney on the Science of Changing Minds

John Donvan In Conversation with David McRaney on the Science of Changing Minds

What’s it take to change a mind? It turns out there is a science to it. That’s at least according to David McRaney, a journalist, author, and host of the You Are Not So Smart podcast. The first step, he says, is don’t overtly try to win. In any argument, an attempt to defeat the opposing party is not nearly as effective as leading the person along in stages, which eventually align with your own thinking. In fact, mere exposure to different ideas, according a recent Pew study, does not generally

Mar 17, 2023 • 53:16

Should the U.S. Ban TikTok?

Should the U.S. Ban TikTok?

With one billion active users across more than 150 countries, TikTok is by many measures the world’s most successful video app. Nearly one in three Americans have an account. It is the most downloaded app since 2021. And like virtually all of social media, user privacy concerns abound. But TikTok adds an extra layer. Owned by Chinese company ByteDance, there are worries that U.S. data could be transmitted to China’s government, despite assurances from the company that it is not. Those concerns p

Mar 3, 2023 • 53:17

Will ChatGPT Do More Harm Than Good?

Will ChatGPT Do More Harm Than Good?

It’s poised to “change our world.” That’s according to Bill Gates, referencing an advanced AI chatbot called ChatGPT, which seems to be all the rage. The tool, which was developed by OpenAI and backed by a company Gates founded, Microsoft, effectively takes questions from users and produces human-like responses. The "GPT" stands "Generative Pre-trained Transformer," which denotes the design and nature of the artificial intelligence training. And yet despite the chatbot’s swelling popula

Feb 24, 2023 • 53:15

Has China's Power Peaked?

Has China's Power Peaked?

This was supposed to be the “Chinese century.” In just a few decades, China transitioned from a developing economy to the world’s second largest. Measured in purchasing power parity, it actually surpassed the U.S. economy in 2014, and has since expanded its military, monetary, infrastructure, and soft power capacities in ways that all seemed to point to long-term advantages as a rising power. At the Communist Party’s five-yearly congress in October 2022, Xi Jinping cemented his place as

Feb 17, 2023 • 53:15

Does the Sex Offender Registry Do More Harm Than Good?

Does the Sex Offender Registry Do More Harm Than Good?

Sexual violence is arguably the most devastating kind. But the sex offender registry has come under increasing scrutiny. Some suggest that it actually encourages further criminal offenses by making it virtually impossible for offenders to reintegrate into society. Others say that reducing such a proactive approach and tool will endanger communities. In this context, we debate the following question: Does the Sex Offender Registry Do More Harm Than Good?     Arguing "YES" is Emily Horowi

Feb 3, 2023 • 53:15

Is Parenting Overrated?

Is Parenting Overrated?

What shapes us more: our DNA, or the way we’re raised? This debate, commonly recognized as “nature versus nurture,” has drawn disagreement for thousands of years. So which one matters more? Emerging genetic research indicates that the scale may be tipping toward biology – but not all trust the research. Proponents of the “nature” camp argue it is DNA that determines who we are, as evidenced by identical twins and triplets who are separated at birth and, once reunited, show remarkable si

Jan 27, 2023 • 53:15

Is Elon Musk Killing Twitter?

Is Elon Musk Killing Twitter?

These days, the bird’s the word. Since shelling out $44 billion for Twitter, critics say Elon Musk is knocking the social media giant off its perch. Under his guidance, a slew of firings, a resurgence of unsavory Tweeters, and a bevy of on-again, off-again bans, have all raised questions about the platform’s long-term viability. Some investors have labeled Musk an albatross around Twitter’s neck, calling for him to stay focused on Tesla and SpaceX. Others say Musk is actually freeing th

Jan 20, 2023 • 53:16

Has Globalization Backfired?

Has Globalization Backfired?

For a period of time, going global just seemed to make sense. But with China’s rise, Covid-19, and the war in Ukraine, words like “localnomics,” “friends-shoring,” and “decoupling” have helped codify a growing movement that calls for less interdependence between economies. Those in favor of a more “deglobalized” system of trade argue that it is not only more environmentally friendly and responsive to regional needs, but also less of a driver of income inequality. Indeed, globalization’s

Jan 13, 2023 • 53:16

Was January 6th an Existential Threat to American Democracy?

Was January 6th an Existential Threat to American Democracy?

By now it is clear, the Red Wave election-denying candidates had hoped to ride left most still waiting on the beach. Those who questioned the outcome of the 2020 election lost key midterm races, which seemed to calm the nerves of many of those fearful as to where the Republic itself was headed. But as the parties begin to prepare for their respective presidential runs, a bigger question looms; one that has taken its cues from President Biden himself. Shortly after the January 6th attack

Jan 6, 2023 • 53:15

Changing Your Mind, with Adam Grant, Ray Dalio, and Bo Seo

Changing Your Mind, with Adam Grant, Ray Dalio, and Bo Seo

What does it take to admit you’re wrong? And why is it so difficult? Cognitive psychology and neuroscience studies reveal that human decision-making relies on a host of factors that don’t always lead to objective evaluations. Opinions can form as a result of fear, anger, pleasure, and other emotions that not only contribute to bias, but can also harden over time. The resulting misconception often then rattles through every aspect of our lives, from our work to our politics to the very r

Dec 30, 2022 • 54:01

Bonus: Year in Review

Bonus: Year in Review

2022 has finally ended. Some of it bad, some of it splendid.   There was Russia’s invasion.   And Ukraine’s self-defense.   The west lobbed isolation against Moscow’s offense.   This was also the year America closed the door  despite a generation of fighting   its 20-year-war We saw economic turmoil  And those who could not tweet  We debated inflation And whether small investors could beat the street  We debated food, SATs, and if the Classics were overrated  Aliens, and whether Britain

Dec 23, 2022 • 27:51

Is Capitalism A Blessing?

Is Capitalism A Blessing?

With the wealth gap widening, some Americans are starting to consider socialism as a viable economic and political model. Supporters of capitalism claim that no other system has been as effective in creating value, increasing prosperity, and producing the wealth that has lifted billions of people out of poverty. The free market, they argue, encourages competition and human ingenuity, values individual choice, and organizes society in a fair and just way. Critics of capitalism, however,

Dec 16, 2022 • 53:15

Does America Need A Digital Dollar?

Does America Need A Digital Dollar?

The digital currency craze started with at least one anonymous Bitcoin founder and a community of futuristic, tech-savvy investors willing to take a bet on a new form of money. But over the past decade, the world of digital currency has coined a host of new types of online cash. In fact, Central Banks in more than 80 countries have, or are in the process of gearing their monetary systems in that direction. They consider them a means of modernizing and serving as a check against the grow

Dec 9, 2022 • 53:43

Is Affirmative Action Unfair to Asian Americans?

Is Affirmative Action Unfair to Asian Americans?

An affirmative action battle is again playing out at the highest levels, only this time with Asian Americans at the center of the controversy. At the heart of the matter is the question of whether the Supreme Court should reconsider race in college admissions. The group, Students for Fair Admissions, has taken aim at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, alleging that Asian Americans are less likely to be admitted than comparably qualified white, Black,

Dec 2, 2022 • 53:56

Should We Eat More Processed Foods?

Should We Eat More Processed Foods?

Processed food is bad for you, right? Well, there’s more to this story. As new technologies create foods that can’t be made in home kitchens, such as plant-based meats and dairy products made with plant proteins, the question of whether we should all be consuming more highly processed foods is up for debate. Advocates say a substantial increase in food processing is the best way to feed growing human populations while also reducing food waste. We should trust – and invest – in food tech

Nov 25, 2022 • 53:15

Is Public Radio Still Relevant?

Is Public Radio Still Relevant?

Many Americans grew up with a transistor radio somewhere in the home. Out of it emanated the commentaries, stories, news, and analysis. Public radio was a key means of getting information. But between podcasts, satellite radio and on-demand streaming, some argue that signal is fading. Nimble upstarts and emerging technologies have created wildly successful new platforms, enabling a broad diversity of creators to broadcast their views. What does this mean for the future of public radio?

Nov 22, 2022 • 1:00:45

Unresolved: Information Disorder

Unresolved: Information Disorder

The age of “information disorder” is upon us. Deep fakes, false political narratives, and flawed COVID rumors are all rampant online, threatening America’s national security, as well as democracy itself. Though bad actors have always had the capacity to deceive, the ease, speed, and degree to which anyone can create misleading information has engendered a dangerous new world. And yet many solutions can also run directly against longstanding western principles, such as free speech and a

Nov 18, 2022 • 53:17

Is Taiwan Indefensible?

Is Taiwan Indefensible?

The fate of Taiwan is uncertain. As a revanchist China builds up forces near the island, the Biden administration is warning Beijing against an invasion, bolstering its defense with the sale of military hardware. Beijing sees Taiwan as lost territory, which needs to be “reunified” with the mainland. The United States is now faced with a geopolitical quandary: Can the U.S. military defend Taiwan from Beijing, and should it? Or, is Taiwan indefensible? Arguing in favor of the motion is Ly

Nov 11, 2022 • 53:14

Are Primary Elections Ruining Democracy?

Are Primary Elections Ruining Democracy?

The U.S. Constitution has a lot to say about elections. But nowhere is there any mention of political primaries, the process by which candidates are winnowed down ahead of a general election. Though they may seem integral to the U.S. system, primaries in fact are a relatively new phenomenon, borne of the turn of the 20th century when reformers sought to wrangle power from political party bosses. Of course, quite a lot has changed since the days of Tammany Hall. Gerrymandering has greatl

Nov 4, 2022 • 53:47

Is It Time to End Qualified Immunity for Cops?

Is It Time to End Qualified Immunity for Cops?

How does one balance two important, though at times competing, public interests? In this case, it’s the need to hold public officials accountable versus the need to shield those officials from harassment and legal liability. In 1967, the US Supreme Court lay the foundations of an answer during a case involving two police officers, sued over civil rights violations carried out at a segregated bus stop in Jackson, Mississippi. The court effectively ruled that if unconstitutional arrests w

Oct 28, 2022 • 53:29

Do Unions Work For The Economy?

Do Unions Work For The Economy?

Unions may be on the verge of a resurgence. After decades of decline, workers are organizing at well-known companies, like Starbucks, Amazon, and Google, at a pace not seen since the 1930s. Decades of stagnant wages, recent labor shortages, and the most vocally pro-union President in recent memory have all stoked key wins for American labor, including successful strikes at John Deere and Kellogg. In fact, recent polling shows public support for labor unions has climbed to 71%, its highe

Oct 21, 2022 • 53:47

Should Paying Hacker Ransoms Be Illegal?

Should Paying Hacker Ransoms Be Illegal?

With cyber threats and ransomware on the rise globally, the Biden administration has enlisted America’s tech titans to help blunt their effects. Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, are all in discussions with Washington over how to strengthen the nation’s critical infrastructure defenses against a growing array of both private and state-sponsored attacks. Skeptics question just how much can be achieved, given how connected U.S. society has become. But solutions are emerging, from lifting the

Oct 14, 2022 • 53:15

Should We Use Gene Editing to Make Better Babies?

Should We Use Gene Editing to Make Better Babies?

A genetic disease runs in your family. Your doctor tells you that, should you wish to have a child, that child is likely to also carry the disease. But a new gene-editing technology could change your fate. It could ensure that your baby is -- and remains -- healthy. What do you do? It’s is not without its perils. Critics say the technology will exacerbate inequality, pressure all parents (and nations) into editing their children to stay competitive, and meddle with the most basic aspect

Oct 7, 2022 • 53:19

Should We Separate the Art From the Artist?

Should We Separate the Art From the Artist?

It turns out your favorite artist is a monster. Say they committed murder, advocated genocide, or engaged in some other act so outside the scope of a dignified, respectable society that it cannot be redeemed. What now? Must you throw the art out with the artists? It's a question at the heart of both pop culture and high art critique. For some, a work of art is an entity in itself. It should be appreciated and revered without regard to the life of its creator. If we disregard all great a

Sep 30, 2022 • 54:06

Is Amazon Good for Small Business?

Is Amazon Good for Small Business?

Amazon has come a long way since online book sales. In fact, when it comes to revenue, Jeff Bezos’ creation is the world’s biggest internet-based company. But what makes the "everything store" so ubiquitous? In large part, it’s the small and medium-sized businesses that use the platform to sell their goods. This year, more than 1.9 million of these businesses participated in its marketplace, which accounted for some 60 percent of Amazon's retail sales. But was it ultimately good for the

Sep 23, 2022 • 53:16

Long Live The British Monarchy?

Long Live The British Monarchy?

For nearly three-quarters of a century, Queen Elizabeth II sat on high as Britain’s monarch. With her death, however, new momentum is building that questions the future of the British Crown. Several former British colonies, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Jamaica, have debated severing ties, while Republican campaigners in Britain now see opportunity to reassess what it means to have a monarchy, without offending a popular queen. Against that backdrop, we debate the longev

Sep 16, 2022 • 53:16

Should We Search for Extraterrestrial Life?

Should We Search for Extraterrestrial Life?

For decades, scientists around the world have dedicated their lives — and research dollars — to one question: Is there anyone else out there? In the early 1970s, NASA joined the hunt with its own program to search for extraterrestrial life, or SETI for short. When that was defunded by Congress, private efforts took hold. But just what have decades of SETI brought us? And how should we approach the search in those to come? For SETI’s supporters, finding other intelligent life in the cosm

Sep 9, 2022 • 54:02

Will AI Do More Harm Than Good?

Will AI Do More Harm Than Good?

Is it true that artificial intelligence will do more harm than good? Proponents say it will help us solve problems like climate change and world hunger, while eliminating dangerous and mundane jobs. But critics warn that A.I.’s current trajectory is a dangerous one, which will likely concentrate power, reduce jobs, surveil consumers and voters alike, and threaten democracy. What’s more, some people say these conditions are not based on science fiction, but are already in the process of

Sep 2, 2022 • 54:07

Should The SAT Be Erased?

Should The SAT Be Erased?

Last year, only 1.5 million high school students took the SAT, down from 2.2 million in the class of 2020. Covid-19 played a big role in the decision among many schools not to move forward with at-home testing. But the move sparked even wider discussion about the test itself. Currently, at least 75% of colleges actually don’t require the SAT or ACT. That’s an all-time high, with many schools pledging not to return to it. But is that the right move? Proponents call into question the effi

Aug 26, 2022 • 53:16

Is Cancel Culture Toxic?

Is Cancel Culture Toxic?

You know the drill. Someone does, or says, something offensive. A public backlash -- typically on Twitter -- ensues. Then come the calls to "cancel" that person, brand, or institution. That usually means the loss of cultural cache, political clout, and often a job or career. While the term "cancelling" has roots in a misogynistic joke, it has come to be one of the most prominent tools of progressive activists. Many see "cancelling" as a modern-day means of holding people to account, cal

Aug 19, 2022 • 53:16

Should Trump Be Indicted?

Should Trump Be Indicted?

After a series of prime-time hearings from the January 6th Committee and hundreds of charges against individuals who a participated in the events of that day, the Department of Justice faces a complex political and legal question: Should it charge Donald Trump with federal crimes?Arguing "yes" is Barbara Comstock. Arguing "no" Tom Ginsburg. Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 12, 2022 • 53:16

Should We Eat More Processed Foods?

Should We Eat More Processed Foods?

Processed food is bad for you, right? Well, there’s more to this story. As new technologies create foods that can’t be made in home kitchens, such as plant-based meats and dairy products made with plant proteins, the question of whether we should all be consuming more highly processed foods is up for debate. Advocates say a substantial increase in food processing is the best way to feed growing human populations while also reducing food waste. We should trust – and invest – in food tech

Aug 5, 2022 • 53:17

Should We Forgive Student Debt?

Should We Forgive Student Debt?

Facing growing discontent over the rising cost of higher education, many prominent Democrats – and some Republicans – are calling on Washington to cancel the approximately $1.6 trillion Americans currently owe in student loan debt. Supporters see debt forgiveness as a necessary step to safeguarding the nation’s financial future and combating inequality in the education system. But others argue that this blanket policy would balloon the federal deficit, reward irresponsible borrowers, an

Jul 29, 2022 • 53:16

Should We Isolate Russia?

Should We Isolate Russia?

As punishment for the war, most of Russia’s energy imports to Europe will be banned by the end of the year. But is that smart policy? Those who argue “yes” say Russia must be punished for its actions. Those who argue “no” say isolating the Kremlin  to this extent is a dangerous gamble, which could undermine Europe’s economies, push Russia further toward China, and lay the groundwork for an escalation. In this context, we debate this question, "Should we isolate Russia?  Learn more about

Jul 22, 2022 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Can the Fed Manage a Soft Landing?

Agree to Disagree: Can the Fed Manage a Soft Landing?

The Fed recently announced aggressive interest rate hikes and is signaling more to come. Its goal? To stabilize the economy amid surging inflation (reaching rates not seen in some 40 years) and lingering supply chain disruptions and shortages. But can the Fed actually manage a so-called "soft landing"?   Arguing "yes" is Dean Baker. Arguing "no" is Yeva Nersisyan. Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 15, 2022 • 53:17

We Should Expand the Supreme Court

We Should Expand the Supreme Court

Nine justices hold tremendous power. Advocates on the left see a Supreme Court out of touch with the electorate, obstructed by partisan interests, and rendered illegitimate by years of controversial appointments. But those opposed believe dramatically changing one of the three core pillars of American government would undermine the court’s legitimacy.  Intelligence Squared U.S. in partnership with The Newt and Jo Minow Debate Series at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law asks: Should we expand

Jul 8, 2022 • 53:16

Humans Can Adapt to Climate Change

Humans Can Adapt to Climate Change

The dangers of climate change are “no longer over the horizon.” Humanity may soon pass the “point of no return.” These are the phrases U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres used to describe what he called an “utterly inadequate” global response to rising temperatures. But if we were to decisively act, and restructure our global economy with the climate in mind, who would shoulder the burden? Or should our collective focus orient more toward humans’ capacity for adaptation?   Podcast:

Jul 1, 2022 • 53:32

Debate Like a World Champion: A Conversation with Bo Seo, Harvard Debate Coach & Global Debate Champion

Debate Like a World Champion: A Conversation with Bo Seo, Harvard Debate Coach & Global Debate Champion

What's it take to debate like a champion? How can you engage so that people will listen? How can you listen actively, and respond in good faith?  A mission critical program for listeners of Intelligence Squared, we sit down with Bo to examine debate through the lens of education, politics, and the future of democracy. Considered one of the most recognized figures in the global debate community, he has won both the World Schools Debating Championship and the World Universities Debating C

Jun 17, 2022 • 53:30

Should Society Legalize Psychedelics?

Should Society Legalize Psychedelics?

Psychedelics, in medical terms, is an inexact category of drugs that affect perceptions and cognition. Their proponents say 1960s-era associations have undermined exciting research in the field of neuroscience. Psychedelics should be made much more widely available, they contend, to treat a range of mental and emotional issues, as well as to ascertain a more profound sense of ourselves. People should also be empowered to make their own decisions in its use. Not so fast, say opponents. T

Jun 3, 2022 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Does Your Electric Vehicle Help The Planet?

Agree to Disagree: Does Your Electric Vehicle Help The Planet?

Tesla vehicle sales are, well … electric. The company posted $5.5 billion in 2021 profits, roughly six times its previous year earnings. Globally, the electric car industry is anything but static, soaring to 7 million units in 2021. EV advocates argue that while the technology and resources aren’t perfect, they are ultimately better for the environment long term as the tech improves. Opponents say the kinds of infrastructure EVs require still require huge investments that would be bette

May 20, 2022 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Can Small Investors Beat The Street?

Agree to Disagree: Can Small Investors Beat The Street?

In a modern-day battle of David and Goliath on Wall Street, thousands of amateur retail investors banded together to bid up stocks in a handful of failing companies, most notably the nostalgic video game hub known as GameStop. Within days, the renegade traders sent stocks soaring and dealt heavy blows to hedge funds and other traditional professional investors who had bet against the companies. The "meme stock" phenomenon was born. But where does "revolution" stand a year later? Did the

May 13, 2022 • 53:34

Agree to Disagree: Is It Right to End Roe?

Agree to Disagree: Is It Right to End Roe?

The Supreme Court is poised to make a decision so controversial that even a leaked draft majority opinion can send shockwaves across the nation. In 98-pages, Justice Alito decried Roe v. Wade as “egregiously wrong from the start," declared no right to abortion can be found in the Constitution, and sent abortion laws back to the states — about half of which have "trigger laws" that will ban abortion almost immediately upon Roe's demise. Exactly how likely is this draft opinion to become

May 10, 2022 • 54:46

It's Time to Expand Nuclear Power

It's Time to Expand Nuclear Power

The calls for nuclear are growing louder. The Biden administration recently announced that it was putting $6 billion toward saving distressed nuclear power plants from closure, considering them carbon-free alternative to fossil fuels. Elon Musk doubled down, not only calling for an expansion of nuclear energy, but even offering to eat food grown near reactors live on TV.  But its critics argue that expanding nuclear energy is dangerous, costly, and ill-advised.  So, we unearthed from th

Apr 22, 2022 • 53:15

Thinking Again with Adam Grant: The Power of Debate, and Knowing What You Don’t Know

Thinking Again with Adam Grant: The Power of Debate, and Knowing What You Don’t Know

The hallmark of a productive debate is not persuasion, but insight. So says Adam Grant in this wide-ranging conversation with John Donvan and Intelligence Squared CEO Clea Conner. A good argument is not only about convincing, Grant explains, but also to learn. In his new book, Think Again, Grant explores a set of cognitive skills that might matter more than pure aptitude: The ability to rethink and unlearn. That is the focus of this conversation; the capacity to change your mind, and wh

Apr 8, 2022 • 53:37

#200 - Are Big Cities Past Their Prime?

#200 - Are Big Cities Past Their Prime?

New York. Los Angeles. Boston. San Francisco. With mega populations, these urban hubs have long reigned as the nation's economic, social, and cultural capitals. But big cities have also been the hardest hit by the pandemic. Even more, the pandemic has brought economic and social inequality into sharp focus for the nation's lawmakers. Will megacities keep their magnetism in the wake of Covid-19? Or are their best days behind them? Arguing in favor of the motion is Joel Kotkin and Jennife

Mar 25, 2022 • 53:37

Agree to Disagree: Is It Time to End the Covid Emergency?

Agree to Disagree: Is It Time to End the Covid Emergency?

Is it time to end Covid emergency measures? With President Biden's plan to transition to a new normal, more than 70% of Americans recently polled agree that “we just need to get on with our lives.” Some advocates of the plan say it's long overdue, pointing to the long term consequences of isolation and broader effects lock downs have had on society. Critics argue that both hospitalization and Covid death rates are still high, and that the nature of this virus and its variants is far fro

Mar 18, 2022 • 36:10

Agree to Disagree: Ukraine

Agree to Disagree: Ukraine

As escalation ratchets higher between Russia and the west over Ukraine, Intelligence Squared U.S. examines a core question: Is a confrontation with Russia worth it? And what effects have sanctions really wrought? Kurt Volker, a former U.S. Ambassador to NATO and former Special Representative for Ukraine, argues that defending Ukraine is very much in the west’s security interest. Emma Ashford of the Atlantic Council argues that it is not. And yet both acknowledge that for Russia, the sta

Mar 11, 2022 • 53:17

#199 - Should We Use Gene Editing to Make Better Babies?

#199 - Should We Use Gene Editing to Make Better Babies?

A genetic disease runs in your family. Your doctor tells you that, should you wish to have a child, that child is likely to also carry the disease. But a new gene-editing technology could change your fate. It could ensure that your baby is -- and remains -- healthy. What do you do? It’s is not without its perils. Critics say the technology will exacerbate inequality, pressure all parents (and nations) into editing their children to stay competitive, and meddle with the most basic aspect

Feb 18, 2022 • 53:36

Agree to Disagree: Is True Love a Myth?

Agree to Disagree: Is True Love a Myth?

If you are an old-fashioned romantic, true love has a nice ring to it. Our films, novels, poems, and music are all steeped in the notion, with characteristics that include unwavering fondness and even selfless devotion. But does it actually exist, driven by our biological underpinnings? Or is it a myth that harms what could be a more realistic, and thus healthy, expectation of relationships? As American marriages teeter at historic lows, and attitudes shift, it is a growing question among both t

Feb 4, 2022 • 53:16

#198 - Is America Retreating from Global Leadership?

#198 - Is America Retreating from Global Leadership?

It’s been a year of the Biden administration. And for many around the world, the question is simple: Can America still lead like it used to? President Biden, following his predecessor's “America First” policy, promised to “restore the soul of America.” Many took that to mean Washington was looking to reassert itself as the pre-eminent global leader. But some say that ship has sailed, and question whether the tables are decidedly turning. In light of this emerging divide, we debate this

Jan 28, 2022 • 53:37

IQ2 Conversation: A New University Offers "Forbidden" Courses

IQ2 Conversation: A New University Offers "Forbidden" Courses

They say that colleges have become too censorious. That our most prestigious institutions have abandoned their mission of fostering critical minds and sparking thoughtful dissent. And that a generation of American students is missing out. So, this group of scholars and activists are founding something new: a university – they say – dedicated primarily to free speech. The University of Austin will get its start with a series of noncredit "Forbidden Courses." In this Intelligence Squared

Jan 7, 2022 • 1:07:32

The Pandemic: Year-In-Review

The Pandemic: Year-In-Review

Two years ago in January, the Covid-19 virus made its way to American shores. And so … as we wrap up 2021, we thought we’d bring you an amalgam of our best Covid content. Our host John Donvan guide you through the depths of what to this day remain highly contentious policies and decisions that continue to affect virtually all of us. And so … from all of us at Intelligence Squared, we hope you enjoy it. Happy holidays. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 22, 2021 • 47:57

#197 - Is Amazon Good for Small Business?

#197 - Is Amazon Good for Small Business?

Amazon has come a long way since online book sales. In fact, when it comes to revenue, Jeff Bezos’ creation is the world’s biggest internet-based company. But what makes the "everything store" so ubiquitous? In large part, it’s the small and medium-sized businesses that use the platform to sell their goods. This year, more than 1.9 million of these businesses participated in its marketplace, which accounted for some 60 percent of Amazon's retail sales. But was it ultimately good for the

Dec 10, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Meritocracy

Agree to Disagree: Meritocracy

The hereditary lottery, in many democracies, has effectively been replaced by a system in which talent, grit, and ability are meant to determine success. Yet, amidst income inequality and legacy of racism, many wonder whether meritocracy works. Critics point to generational wealth and networks that lead to lucrative jobs and fancy educations. Those who defend meritocracy argue that talent ultimately wins out, and despite its flaws, meritocracy remains the most effective way of lifting disenfranc

Nov 26, 2021 • 53:16

#196 - Is Cancel Culture Toxic?

#196 - Is Cancel Culture Toxic?

You know the drill. Someone does, or says, something offensive. A public backlash -- typically on Twitter -- ensues. Then come the calls to "cancel" that person, brand, or institution. That usually means the loss of cultural cache, political clout, and often a job or career. Some see "cancelling" as a modern-day means of holding people to account, while others express concerns about digital mobs policing speech. So, we ask: Is cancel culture toxic? Arguing in favor of the motion is Kmel

Nov 12, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Booster Shots

Agree to Disagree: Booster Shots

The boosters are rolling out. In places likes the U.S., Britain, and Israel, authorities are providing additional Covid-19 vaccines with the goal of bolstering immune systems and shoring up their economies. Though vaccines such as Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech have proven highly effective against the virus, efficacy wanes after six months, rendering older adults and those with weakened immune systems more vulnerable. Yet a debate about fairness, when much of the planet is unvaccinated, is growing.

Oct 29, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Cyber War and Hacker Ransoms

Agree to Disagree: Cyber War and Hacker Ransoms

With cyber threats and ransomware on the rise globally, the Biden administration has enlisted America’s tech titans to help blunt their effects. Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, are all in discussions with Washington over how to strengthen the nation’s critical infrastructure defenses against a growing array of both private and state-sponsored attacks. Skeptics question just how much can be achieved, given how connected U.S. society has become. But solutions are emerging, from lifting the veil of

Oct 15, 2021 • 53:16

#195 - Should We Expand the Supreme Court?

#195 - Should We Expand the Supreme Court?

Nine justices hold tremendous power. Advocates on the left see a Supreme Court out of touch with the electorate, obstructed by partisan interests, and rendered illegitimate by years of controversial appointments. But those opposed believe dramatically changing one of the three core pillars of American government would undermine the court’s legitimacy. Intelligence Squared U.S. in partnership with The Newt and Jo Minow Debate Series at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law asks: Should we

Oct 1, 2021 • 53:16

#194 - Is the United Nations Obsolete?

#194 - Is the United Nations Obsolete?

As world attention descends on the United Nations General Assembly, Intelligence Squared U.S. casts a critical lens on this nearly 76-year-old global organization. In light of recent controversies in places like Haiti, and its recent absence in places such as Afghanistan -- where the Taliban has regained control -- questions are mounting as to whether the United Nations itself is both ineffective and outdated. In light of these emerging questions, we ask an especially timely question: Is the Uni

Sep 18, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Build Back Better

Agree to Disagree: Build Back Better

The Biden administration wants to spend big. Its $4.5 trillion "Build Back Better" plan includes hefty investments in infrastructure, unprecedented spending on the labor force, and funding for a host of Democratic policy priorities. But just what would this mean for the American economy?  As Washington takes up this historic plan, we ask: Should Congress spend trillions to “Build Back Better”?      Arguing in favor of the motion is Mark Zandi . Arguing against the motion is Michael Strain. Emmy

Sep 3, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Mandates (Updated)

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Mandates (Updated)

As more and more Americans become vaccinated, schools, employers, and health care facilities are facing a tough decision: Will they require students, employees, and care givers to get the jab? Those who say “yes” cite safety concerns – particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations – and call it a necessary step to return to normal. Those who say “no” argue these sorts of mandates violate individual rights, could expose recipients to potential dangers from the vaccines themselves

Aug 27, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Leaving Afghanistan

Agree to Disagree: Leaving Afghanistan

The Taliban have won. Twenty years after the 2001 invasion, the U.S.-backed government in Kabul has fallen. The Afghan president has fled. Taliban leadership, which ran the country in the late 1990s, is now firmly in place within the presidential palace. But after two decades of war, tens of billions spent, hundreds of thousands of lives lost – including more than 2,300 U.S. military personnel – bigger questions have emerged: Is the cost of leaving greater than the cost of staying? And was pulli

Aug 21, 2021 • 53:16

Debate Roundup: America's Guns

Debate Roundup: America's Guns

Gun violence is surging. Despite lockdowns and social distancing, 2020 ended up as one of America’s most violent years in decades. 2021 is following a similar path. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has laid out his strategy. In this special debate, we review three gun debates that still have relevance today.    1.) The Constitutional Right To Bear Arms Has Outlived Its Usefulness (Sanford Levinson of  University of Texas Law School and David Kopel of Cato Institute)  2. Guns Reduce Crime (John Lot

Aug 13, 2021 • 50:04

#193 - Has the New York Times Lost Its Way?

#193 - Has the New York Times Lost Its Way?

What's happening at The New York Times? The paper of record is under fire. Critics argue it has sacrificed journalistic and intellectual balance in favor of correcting historic inequalities. In the process, they say, that effort has stifled dissent and promoted social justice above all else. Not so, say its defenders. The paper has indeed evolved, they argue. Yet that evolution has been proven a particular strength in such tumultuous times. Subscriptions are up, while both casting a cri

Jul 30, 2021 • 53:16

Is It Time to Redistribute the Wealth?

Is It Time to Redistribute the Wealth?

Economic inequality has become a linchpin of modern politics. As nations around the world face a reckoning on racial and social justice and work to combat the economic impacts of the pandemic, we ask: Is it time to redistribute the wealth? Should we address growing inequality by overhauling our tax system, expanding our social safety nets, and investing more in public initiatives like universal health care, education, and infrastructure? Or would a wealth transfer unduly punish the economic elit

Jul 16, 2021 • 53:15

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Mandates

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Mandates

As more and more Americans become vaccinated, schools, employers, and health care facilities are facing a tough decision: Will they require students, employees, and care givers to get the jab? Those who say “yes” cite safety concerns – particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations – and call it a necessary step to return to normal. Those who say “no” argue these sorts of mandates violate individual rights, could expose recipients to potential dangers from the vaccines themselves

Jul 2, 2021 • 52:16

The State of Debate: An Intelligence Squared Roundtable

The State of Debate: An Intelligence Squared Roundtable

Generally, it is good practice for any individual or organization to occasionally step back and evaluate a few big picture items. But when that review is sparked by a pandemic and real uncertainties about the state of western democracy, that little exercise often becomes existential. In that spirit, and in this special season review, Intelligence Squared casts a critical lens on itself; its mission to serve as a beacon for civil discourse, its examination of opposing perspectives; and the transf

Jun 25, 2021 • 1:10:21

Ray Dalio on How To Change Your Mind

Ray Dalio on How To Change Your Mind

How do you know that you’re right? Modern business, politics, and even culture, tend to favor strident opinions and decisive action. To “flip flop” may then be construed as ineptitude, or even weakness. So it behooves us to “stick to our guns, “stay the course,” and adhere to other well-trodden idioms of the English language. Of course that approach may be limiting. And what if you are actually wrong? How will you know? What means testing can be involved in your thinking when to waver o

Jun 18, 2021 • 51:16

Is Bitcoin More Than a Bubble and Here to Stay?

Is Bitcoin More Than a Bubble and Here to Stay?

Is Bitcoin here to stay? Cryptocurrencies hold the promise of revolutionizing global finance by placing control in the hands of users, not nations, and making financial exchanges more transparent, efficient, and democratic. But given the yet-another-round of boom and bust cycles seen recently, questions remain: Could cypto ever be considered a safe bet? Proponents say the hype is warranted, with naysayers increasingly jumping on the Bitcoin (block) train. Yet skeptics and critics – like

Jun 4, 2021 • 54:54

Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism?

Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism?

In light of the recent Israel-Hamas war, an old debate is gaining new relevance. The nature of the current conflict has again unleashed a wave of antisemitic threats and violence in the U.S., with synagogues and Jewish-owned business having been vandalized and attacked. But as society surveys the damage, it also asks whether the condemnation of Israeli actions can truly be divorced from antisemitic hostilities? In other words, is being an anti-zionist tantamount to being antisemitic? Or

May 28, 2021 • 53:32

#192 - Is Taiwan Indefensible?

#192 - Is Taiwan Indefensible?

The fate of Taiwan is uncertain. As a revanchist China builds up forces near the island, the Biden administration is warning Beijing against an invasion, bolstering its defense with the sale of military hardware. Beijing sees Taiwan as lost territory, which needs to be “reunified” with the mainland. The United States is now faced with a geopolitical quandary: Can the U.S. military defend Taiwan from Beijing, and should it? Or, is Taiwan indefensible? Arguing in favor of the motion is Lyle J. Gol

May 21, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Passports

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Passports

Will you need a digital passport to prove you’ve been vaccinated the next time you try to board a flight or get into a concert? The idea is already being tested in Israel and governments around the world – including the Biden administration – are exploring what vaccine credentials might look like. For some, these digital tools are a golden ticket back to “normal” life. But for others, these tools raise dire concerns about privacy, civil rights, and equitable access.  In this episode of Agree to

May 12, 2021 • 53:16

#191 - Should We Legalize Psychedelics?

#191 - Should We Legalize Psychedelics?

Psychedelics, in medical terms, is an inexact category of drugs that affect perceptions and cognition. Their proponents say 1960s-era associations have undermined exciting research in the field of neuroscience. Psychedelics should be made much more widely available, they contend, to treat a range of mental and emotional issues, as well as to ascertain a more profound sense of ourselves. People should also be empowered to make their own decisions in its use. Not so fast, say opponents. T

Apr 23, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Patents

Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Patents

India and South Africa have petitioned the World Trade Organization to suspend intellectual property protections for Covid-19 vaccines. These nations – along with a coalition of scholars, activists, and nonprofit organizations – argue that developing nations are at risk of waiting years to get full access to the vaccines unless these protections are lifted. But their opponents say suspending patent protections will do little to speed up the manufacturing process. Instead, undermining these prote

Apr 9, 2021 • 53:16

#190 - Should We Forgive Student Debt?

#190 - Should We Forgive Student Debt?

In the year since the pandemic forced us to cancel, the federal student loan debt has grown $100 billion. The stakes have risen for student borrowers, making it high time we rescheduled our debate on the motion: Forgive Student Loans.Facing growing discontent over the rising cost of higher education, many prominent Democrats – and some Republicans – are calling on Washington to cancel the approximately $1.7 trillion Americans currently owe in student loan debt. Supporters see debt forgi

Mar 26, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: The Filibuster

Agree to Disagree: The Filibuster

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Mar 19, 2021 • 47:10

Agree to Disagree: Slavery Reparations

Agree to Disagree: Slavery Reparations

Between 1525 and 1866, more than 12 million Africans were shipped to the New World as slaves. After some 200 years, slavery was abolished, and yet another century of Jim Crow, coupled with discriminatory housing and lending policies, contributed to its legacy. Dealing with the relics of that stain on American history is part of the national dilemma. But exactly how to do it is our question; something lawmakers in Washington are also now debating. A top aide to President Joe Biden recent

Mar 12, 2021 • 53:15

#189 - Has the GOP Lost Its Way?

#189 - Has the GOP Lost Its Way?

What should the Republican party look like after Donald Trump? For many prominent establishment figures, including those behind The Lincoln Project, the GOP has lost its way. The only way back, they say, is to purge the forces that brought Trump to power. But others warn that rejecting the millions of voters who supported the former president is the wrong call for the American right. Rather, the GOP should instead double down, focus on bridging the establishment and grassroots factions

Feb 26, 2021 • 53:16

Agree to Disagree: Sex with Robots (Valentine's Day Special)

Agree to Disagree: Sex with Robots (Valentine's Day Special)

As robots and artificial intelligence reached new heights, the relationship between humans and machines is getting closer. The sex tech industry is worth $30 billion annually and growing, as sex with synthetic companions is becoming far more widespread. But should it be? What are the social consequences? Some argue that sex robots will encourage bad behavior, perpetuate misogyny, and reinforce pornographic depictions of the opposite sex. Others say it can serve as a societal good for those who s

Feb 12, 2021 • 53:43

Agree to Disagree: Identity Politics

Agree to Disagree: Identity Politics

The public and pundits alike are still processing the recent election, but this much we know: 2020 marks the most diverse Congress in American history, and President Trump garnered record numbers of minority voters. The takeaway is split. Were identity politics a way to prevail? Two experts on race and identity in America sit with Intelligence Squared host and moderator John Donvan to debate.Arguing “YES” is Michael Eric Dyson, an author, New York Times contributing opinion writer, cont

Feb 5, 2021 • 1:05:07

#188 - For the Last Four Years, America Got the Middle East Right

#188 - For the Last Four Years, America Got the Middle East Right

Joe Biden’s approach to the Middle East will likely be very different than Donald Trump’s. But should it be? For some, the Trump legacy was the right approach: A transactional style that resulted in a host of political and diplomatic victories, including normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab states. But others, including many prominent members of Biden's transition team, see the last four years as a failure of strategy and leadership. So, as the Biden team gets going, we debate w

Jan 29, 2021 • 52:06

Is America Still A Model for the World?

Is America Still A Model for the World?

When Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol and halted the Electoral College certification, European leaders decried the violence and called on the president to allow the peaceful transfer of power. Meanwhile, China, Russia, Venezuela, and Iran issued swift condemnations with not-so-subtle jabs at the legitimacy of Western democratic values. In the wake of this, can America remain the world's model for democracy?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 16, 2021 • 1:00:09

Helen Fisher on How Genes Affect Your Politics

Helen Fisher on How Genes Affect Your Politics

Were you an adventurous baby? Or were you risk averse? According to Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist who studies genopolitics, your answers to those questions might also inform your politics. Host, John Donvan digs into the debate surrounding genes and early nurturing, and examines how they both might inspire a natural predilection to skew left or right. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 8, 2021 • 53:15

Intelligence Squared Year-Ender

Intelligence Squared Year-Ender

Looking back at 2020, it’s been interesting. Intelligence Squared, like the rest of the world, went virtual as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic that upended business models and accelerated trends far beyond what most experts could envision. (“To zoom” no longer just means “to move quickly.”) And so, as the world waits this thing out, we decided an appropriate holiday gift would be a compilation of our favorite debates of 2020. From Iran, China and the Electoral College, to policing and whether

Dec 26, 2020 • 53:55

Essential Workers or Elderly? Larry Brilliant on the Vaccine Debate

Essential Workers or Elderly? Larry Brilliant on the Vaccine Debate

As the first rounds of the Covid-19 vaccines become available, a growing debate has emerged as to who should get it first. CDC guidance prioritizes essential workers and those in long-term care, but a growing chorus of voices say authorities should instead focus on the elderly. It’s a profound debate with broad ethical implications that dig into the question of preserving first-responders and society’s first line of defense versus rising morbidity and mortality rates among at-risk populations. H

Dec 18, 2020 • 55:09

Agree to Disagree: Are Identity Politics a Way to Win?

Agree to Disagree: Are Identity Politics a Way to Win?

The public and pundits alike are still processing the most recent election, but this much we know: 2020 marks the most diverse Congress in American history, and President Trump garnered more minority voters in 2020 than in 2016. As Georgia faces two runoff elections, which will determine which party controls the Senate, gubernatorial nominee Stacey Abrams and other voting-rights advocates have focused on identity politics as a way to prevail in the electoral process. Is it a winning str

Dec 11, 2020 • 1:05:07

#187 - Should We Stop Worrying About National Deficits?

#187 - Should We Stop Worrying About National Deficits?

Governments around the world have spent unprecedented sums — trillions of dollars — to combat the economic impacts of coronavirus. But just what does rising government debt mean for our future? A new crop of economists – adherents to Modern Monetary Theory – have a bold proposition: Don't worry about it. Stephanie Kelton, James Galbraith, Todd Buchholz, and Otmar Issing join us for a debate on national debt in our third episode of "That's Debatable," our new series presented in partnership with

Dec 5, 2020 • 52:00

Agree to Disagree: Are Election Lawsuits Good For Democracy?

Agree to Disagree: Are Election Lawsuits Good For Democracy?

Joe Biden delivered a victory speech. His team is planning to take power. But rather than concede, President Trump has instead turned to the courts, with election lawsuits in states like Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Arizona. It's a historic moment, and for many an unsettling one. But could these lawsuits actually be good for democracy? Two competing legal minds weigh in, with Intelligence Squared host and moderator John Donvan at the helm.      Arguing "YES," is Rebecca Roiphe, a Manhattan prosecu

Nov 13, 2020 • 52:35

#186 - Is a U.S.-China Space Race Good for Humanity?

#186 - Is a U.S.-China Space Race Good for Humanity?

China is ramping up its national space industry with huge investments in next-generation technologies that promise to transform military, economic, and political realities. Against this backdrop, we ask: Would a new U.S.-China space race be good for humanity? Michio Kaku, Avi, Loeb, Raji Pillai, and Bidushi Bhattacharya join us for a debate on the potential U.S.-China space race in our second episode of “That’s Debatable," our new series presented in partnership with Bloomberg Media and sponsore

Nov 7, 2020 • 52:00

Election Special: A Historian and Futurist Debate 2020

Election Special: A Historian and Futurist Debate 2020

In this special post-election podcast – amidst record mail-in voting, lawsuits, social unrest, and partisan polarization – we’re asking a simple question: Was the 2020 run for the White House as unprecedented as we might think? Those in favor of the motion often point to the tech influence, and Silicon Valley’s hand in everything from echo chambers to political advertising to conspiracy theories. Those against often nod to America’s track record of polarization. In 1860, after Abraham Lincoln’s

Nov 5, 2020 • 48:35

Discourse Disruptors: A Divided Nation – One Perspective

Discourse Disruptors: A Divided Nation – One Perspective

In these final days of the race for the White House, some nations are paying especially close attention. Two men with competing visions of America’s place in the world are vying for the nation’s top job, and the balance of global power is in play.  In this episode of Discourse Disrupters, John Donvan sits down with Ian Bremmer, president and founder of Eurasia Group, to examine the U.S. elections from a foreign policy perspective, the politics of the process itself, and what it all means for a

Oct 30, 2020 • 37:04

 A Supreme Special Episode: Amy Coney Barrett & The State of SCOTUS

A Supreme Special Episode: Amy Coney Barrett & The State of SCOTUS

What would a Justice Amy Coney Barrett mean for American law and politics? Should Democrats try to reform the Court? Two of the nation's top constitutional minds weigh-in, with John Donvan as your intellectual referee in this special episode of Intelligence Squared.  Erwin Chemerinsky - Dean, University of California Berkeley School of Law Saikrishna Prakash - Distinguished Professor of Law, University of Virginia Love to argue? We want to hear from you. Submit your opinion on national deficits

Oct 23, 2020 • 45:40

#185 - Is It Time to Redistribute the Wealth?

#185 - Is It Time to Redistribute the Wealth?

Robert Reich, Yanis Varoufakis, Lawrence Summers and Allison Schrager join us for a debate on economic inequality in the premiere episode of “That’s Debatable," our new series presented in partnership with Bloomberg Media and sponsored by IBM. As nations around the world grapple with the financial impacts of the pandemic, we ask: Is it time to redistribute the wealth? A note from our sponsor: There’s nothing to lose from gaining a fresh perspective. IBM Watson® was built to help us look at an i

Oct 12, 2020 • 52:00

#184 - Unresolved: American Policing

#184 - Unresolved: American Policing

Historic protests calling for police reform have erupted across the nation. But just what could these reforms mean? And how should we see the criminal justice system today? Staged in our “Unresolved” format, this debate brings together five experts to tackle pressing questions on the history and future of policing in the U.S. including: Should we defund the police? Do police unions do more harm than good? And has policing become too militarized?  Cast your vote: https://smarturl.it/AmericanPolic

Oct 2, 2020 • 53:15

#154 - Has Globalization Undermined the American Working Class?

#154 - Has Globalization Undermined the American Working Class?

This Episode Originally Aired on August 3rd, 2018 MOTION: Globalization Has Undermined America's Working Class Globalization ushered in an era of free trade, fluid borders, and unparalleled corporate profits. For its proponents, the global integration of states and their economies was a political and economic win that created a wealth of opportunities for workers and consumers around the world. But in the United States, jobs are disappearing. From construction zones to clerical offices to coal m

Sep 4, 2020 • 54:25

Newt Minow on the Presidential Debates

Newt Minow on the Presidential Debates

What does the father of American presidential debate think about modern electoral politics? In this episode, Newt Minow offers a first-hand account of some of the nation’s biggest political moments and just what role debate should play in our future.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 21, 2020 • 53:15

Agree to Disagree: Should Washington Break Up Big Tech?

Agree to Disagree: Should Washington Break Up Big Tech?

Is Big Tech having its own "big tobacco moment"? As Apple, Facebook, Google, and Amazon face antitrust probes from state and federal investigators alike, we dive into the debate that will shape the tech industry for generations. Join John Donvan and two esteemed debaters for this special episode of our new series, "Agree to Disagree." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 7, 2020 • 53:15

Agree to Disagree: Broadband for All?

Agree to Disagree: Broadband for All?

Introducing "Agree to Disagree," a new series from Intelligence Squared U.S. In this episode, two guests join John Donvan to debate Broadband for All, the internet as a public utility, and just who should make sure you have the connection you need. A message from our sponsor: Get an extra 3 months Free on a one year package. Expressvpn.com/debate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 25, 2020 • 43:13

#183 - Is Nationalism a Force for Good?

#183 - Is Nationalism a Force for Good?

From Brexit to “America First,” Modi in India, Erdoğan in Turkey, and Bolsonaro in Brazil, nationalism – or allegiance to a nation-state over other group affiliations – has been on the rise. Now, borders around the world are closed and the coronavirus pandemic is sparking staunch debate about the future of global governance and political identity. The nation-state has been praised for securing the needs of its citizens and serving as the most efficient form of political organization, while also

Jul 10, 2020 • 53:17

#164 - Should Social Media Companies Honor the First Amendment?

#164 - Should Social Media Companies Honor the First Amendment?

MOTION: Constitutional Free Speech Principles Can Save Social Media Companies from Themselves President Trump posted similar content on Facebook and Twitter. Twitter flagged it. Facebook did not. Both have come under fire for those decisions. Just how should social media companies police user content? Revisit our debate on social media content moderation policies and whether the U.S. Constitution should be the guiding light in a new era of political speech.  FOR THE MOTION: David French - Senio

Jun 26, 2020 • 57:58

#182 - Will Coronavirus Reshape the World Order in China's Favor?

#182 - Will Coronavirus Reshape the World Order in China's Favor?

How might coronavirus reshape geopolitics? For some, the answer is clear: China is on the rise. While Washington embraces “America First” and abdicates its global leadership role, they argue, Beijing is stepping up to fill the void. But others see a global future where Beijing’s standing is diminished, not bolstered. Panelists Kurt M. Campbell, Kishore Mahbubani, Minxin Pei, and Susan Thornton.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 12, 2020 • 53:18

#181 - Has The Electoral College Outlived Its Usefulness?

#181 - Has The Electoral College Outlived Its Usefulness?

DEBATE: Has The Electoral College Outlived Its Usefulness? Five American presidents — two in the last 20 years — have assumed office without winning the popular vote. As the nation gears up for another contentious presidential election, some are calling for an end to the Electoral College. They argue that the college subverts the will of the American people by unfairly prioritizing rural and swing states over the nation’s majority. But others say the Electoral College, which the Founders establi

May 29, 2020 • 53:18

#180 - Was the Global Financial System Better Prepared for the Pandemic Than 2008?

#180 - Was the Global Financial System Better Prepared for the Pandemic Than 2008?

More than a decade ago, Lehman Brothers collapsed, and the world witnessed one of the worst financial crises in global history. In January 2019, Intelligence Squared U.S. hosted a debate on the motion “Ten Years After the Global Financial Crisis, the System Is Safer,” to assess how resilient markets would be in the future. With the emergence of a global pandemic, this has put the debater’s arguments to the ultimate test – whose claims have been vindicated by this unprecedented event? Cast Your

May 15, 2020 • 54:21

 #179 - Is the Defense Production Act Being Underutilized?

#179 - Is the Defense Production Act Being Underutilized?

As health professionals and leaders around the nation rush to procure the supplies Americans need to combat coronavirus, we ask: Is the Defense Production Act being underutilized? This little-known law, which dates back to the Korean War, gives the president vast authority to compel private companies to act in the interest of national defense. While President Trump has invoked the act in recent weeks, many across the nation are calling on his administration to use its powers much more broadly.

Apr 24, 2020 • 52:54

How to Fight an Infodemic

How to Fight an Infodemic

As the coronavirus pandemic sweeps the globe, the World Health Organization is warning of the spread of something else – an information epidemic or “infodemic.” And while diligent consumers of the news are inundated with stats, graphs, press conferences, and think-pieces, so too are they exposed to dubious data, miscredited quotations, and outright harmful claims. In this episode, John Donvan sits down with two leading experts in the spread of information, journalist and editor-in-chief

Apr 3, 2020 • 53:16

#178 - Does Maximum Pressure Against Iran Work?

#178 - Does Maximum Pressure Against Iran Work?

The targeted killing of General Qassim Suleimani sent shockwaves around the world and sparked staunch debate about the Trump administration's "maximum pressure" campaign. Supporters argue that this strategy, which includes leaving the JCPOA and imposing harsh economic sanctions, will safeguard American interests, quell Tehran's human rights abuses, and halt the state's support of terrorist networks. But opponents see "maximum pressure" as dangerously misguided. They argue that abandoning the har

Mar 20, 2020 • 54:18

#177 - Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism?

#177 - Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism?

Zionism, or the belief in the Jewish right to self-determination in the land of Israel, has been the topic of contentious global debate for decades. And while the United States government is making moves to strengthen its special relationship with Israel, such as relocating the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, scrutiny of Israel and its government looms large in American politics. Is it possible to distinguish anti-Zionism from anti-Semitism?For the Motion:Bret Stephens - Op-Ed

Mar 6, 2020 • 54:19

#176 - Is the Two-Party System Good for Democracy?

#176 - Is the Two-Party System Good for Democracy?

As the nation gears up for the 2020 presidential election, we ask: Is the two-party system good for democracy? Does relying on two hugely powerful political bodies drive division and push voters to the extremes? Or does the two-party system moderate the electorate and make the nation governable?  Keynote Conversation: Joanne Freeman - Professor of History and American Studies, Yale University For the Motion: Yascha Mounk - Author, "The People vs. Democracy" Norman Ornstein - Resident Scholar,

Feb 21, 2020 • 54:18

#175 - Is it Time to Expand Nuclear Power?

#175 - Is it Time to Expand Nuclear Power?

For decades, the development of nuclear power has sparked staunch debate among scientists, politicians, and activists alike. Proponents claim that nuclear energy is the most effective way to combat climate change while still meeting the world's growing demand for energy. But its critics argue that expanding nuclear energy is dangerous, costly, and ill-advised. Should nuclear energy fuel our future? Keynote Conversation: Bill Nye - Scientist and CEO of the Planetary Society For the Motion: Kirs

Feb 7, 2020 • 54:19

Ezra Klein on Why We're Polarized

Ezra Klein on Why We're Polarized

Is the American political system broken? In his new book, Ezra Klein argues that the system isn't malfunctioning, it's doing exactly what it was designed to accomplish. In this special episode of Discourse Disrupters, John Donvan sits down with one of the nation's most prominent political journalists to ask one critical question: Why are we polarized? A message from our sponsors: Watch or listen to Argumentation – and any of The Great Courses Plus’ thousands of lectures - Free for an Entire Mon

Jan 31, 2020 • 51:56

Bonus Episode: Can Progressives Save Capitalism?

Bonus Episode: Can Progressives Save Capitalism?

Does capitalism need saving? In this special episode, Intelligence Squared partners with Foreign Affairs to take a nuanced look at the state of the capitalism debate in America, and the potential problems facing our economic system. Joining host John Donvan is Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz with recent Intelligence Squared alum and Reason editor-in-chief Katherine Mangu-Ward. A message from our sponsors: Watch or listen to Argumentation – and any of The Great Courses Plus’ thousa

Jan 10, 2020 • 45:39

#97 - Should We Legalize Assisted Suicide?

#97 - Should We Legalize Assisted Suicide?

Now legal in nine U.S. states and the District of Columbia, physician-assisted suicide has a growing contingency that want to legalize the practice. Will these laws lead to a slippery slope, where the vulnerable are pressured to choose death and human life is devalued? Or do we need to recognize everyone’s basic right to autonomy, the right to end pain and suffering, and the right to choose to die with dignity? FOR THE MOTION: Peter Singer - Philosopher & Professor of Bioethics, Princeton Unive

Dec 27, 2019 • 53:28

Bonus Episode: How Do We Make Our Debates Happen?

Bonus Episode: How Do We Make Our Debates Happen?

In this special episode of Intelligence Squared U.S., host and moderator John Donvan sits down with our newly appointed CEO Clea Conner to pull back the curtain on how we make our debates, choose debaters, and talk about what happens off the stage.A message from our sponsor: Get 20% off your first purchase by going to nativedeodorant.com and entering promo code DEBATE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 13, 2019 • 48:22

#174 - Is Capitalism a Blessing?

#174 - Is Capitalism a Blessing?

Capitalism has always had its critics. But now, a new generation of political leaders, scholars, and activists are calling the free-market system into question. Has capitalism been a force for good? And should it be the economic model of the future? FOR THE MOTION: John Mackey - Co-Founder & CEO, Whole Foods Market Katherine Mangu-Ward - Editor-in-Chief, Reason AGAINST THE MOTION: Bhaskar Sunkara - Founding Editor, Jacobin Richard D. Wolff - Professor Emeritus of Economics, University of Massa

Nov 29, 2019 • 54:24

#173 - Is Parenting Overrated?

#173 - Is Parenting Overrated?

How much does our DNA shape who we become? Four experts in science and psychology debate the classic "nature versus nurture" question with a eye toward recent breakthroughs in genetic science and DNA testing.FOR THE MOTION:Robert Plomin - Professor of Behavioral Genetics, King’s College LondonNancy Segal - Professor of Psychology, California State University, Fullerton & Director, Twin Studies CenterAGAINST THE MOTION:Paige Harden - Psychology Professor, University of TexasAnn Plesh

Nov 15, 2019 • 53:46

#172 - Has Europe Declared War on American Tech Companies?

#172 - Has Europe Declared War on American Tech Companies?

Should we look to Europe for the future of big tech regulations? Four leading thinkers in tech, governance, and law debate the state and future of big tech, and whether it's time to impose greater regulations on companies like Amazon, Facebook, Google, and Twitter. FOR THE MOTION: Roslyn Layton - Visiting Scholar, American Enterprise Institute Berin Szóka - Founder and President, TechFreedom AGAINST THE MOTION: Marietje Schaake - International Policy Director, Stanford's Cyber Policy Center & F

Nov 2, 2019 • 53:45

#115 - Is Affirmative Action in College Admissions Constitutional?

#115 - Is Affirmative Action in College Admissions Constitutional?

Students for Fair Admissions just challenged Harvard's affirmative action guidelines in federal court, and lost. But the advocacy group is gearing up to make their case again – this time, in the Supreme Court. In this episode, we revisit this timely and contentious debate: Does the Constitution allow racial preferences in university admissions? Use code Friends30 for 30% off tickets to upcoming live debates: https://www.intelligencesquaredus.org/buy-tickets Learn more about your ad choices. Visi

Oct 18, 2019 • 56:06

#171 - Should We Replace Private Insurance With Medicare For All?

#171 - Should We Replace Private Insurance With Medicare For All?

As the nation gears up for the 2020 election, Democrats are promising bold new changes to the American health care system, including scrapping private health insurance and adopting “Medicare for All.” Is this a bold and effective way to repair health care in America? Or will it inflate the already swelled federal deficit? Learn more about upcoming debates at www.iq2us.org/buy-tickets  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 4, 2019 • 53:53

#170 - Unresolved: Shifting Power in the Middle East

#170 - Unresolved: Shifting Power in the Middle East

Saudi Arabia and Iran are vying for regional dominance. Turkey is cozying up to Russia and China. And instability, conflict, and proxy wars have engulfed Syria, Yemen, and beyond. How should the United States respond to shifting power in the Middle East? Five leading national security experts debate. Learn more about the upcoming season and buy tickets to a live debate at www.iq2us.org/buy-tickets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 20, 2019 • 53:50

Bonus Episode: Are We In a New Authoritarian Era?

Bonus Episode: Are We In a New Authoritarian Era?

In this special episode, host John Donvan sits down with two of America's leading thinkers on politics and foreign policy: Susan Glasser and Yascha Mounk. They discuss the rise of authoritarian leaders around the world and their featured articles in the September/October issue of Foreign Affairs magazine.Go to www.ForeignAffairs.com/faiq2 and enter the promo code faiq2 for a discounted issue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 6, 2019 • 48:38

Chris Anderson on Ideas & Inspiration

Chris Anderson on Ideas & Inspiration

How do good ideas and persuasive arguments change the world? In this episode, host John Donvan speaks with TED curator Chris Anderson about how bringing people together to share new and innovative ideas will shape our collective future.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 30, 2019 • 53:15

#169 - Is U.S. Policy Toward China Productive?

#169 - Is U.S. Policy Toward China Productive?

Are recent U.S. policies toward China tough and focused enough to achieve key economic and strategic objectives? Or will U.S. policy escalate tensions too much, ultimately reducing the chances that the world’s two major powers can achieve a sensible accommodation? Join four leading experts for a debate on the motion, “The Recent U.S. Policy Toward China Is Productive.” Learn more about Intelligence Squared U.S. and cast your vote to decide the winner at IQ2US.org. Charles Duhigg's "How To" podca

Aug 23, 2019 • 53:38

Simon Johnson on Science & the Economy

Simon Johnson on Science & the Economy

Can focusing on science and technology transform how Americans think about the economy and the future of the nation's working class? In this episode of Discourse Disrupters, former IMF chief economist Simon Johnson joins host John Donvan for a conversation about his new book, "Jump-Starting America: How Breakthrough Science Can Revive Economic Growth and the American Dream." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 16, 2019 • 56:30

Allison Schrager on Risk and Reason In Everyday Life

Allison Schrager on Risk and Reason In Everyday Life

What happens when an economist walks into a brothel? In this episode, economist and author Allison Schrager talks with host John Donvan about her new book, “An Economist Walks Into a Brothel,” and how you can use reason to assess risk in your everyday life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 9, 2019 • 46:58

Nadine Strossen & Thane Rosenbaum on Hate Speech in America

Nadine Strossen & Thane Rosenbaum on Hate Speech in America

In this episode of Discourse Disrupters, two of America’s top legal minds tackles one of the most pressing questions of the day: what should we do about "hate speech." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 26, 2019 • 57:48

#168 - Has the Transatlantic Relationship Been Irreparably Damaged?

#168 - Has the Transatlantic Relationship Been Irreparably Damaged?

Populism is on the rise. Relations between American and European leaders are often tense. Is the transatlantic relationship beyond repair? Four of the brightest foreign policy minds gather in Brussels for this timely and thoughtful debate. This debate is presented in partnership with the German Marshall Fund of the United States. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 12, 2019 • 53:15

Bonus Episode: How Europe Is Answering to "America First"

Bonus Episode: How Europe Is Answering to "America First"

Team IQ2US is busy in Brussels, getting ready to bring you our next debate, “The Transatlantic Relationship Has Been Irreparably Damaged.” This one will be presented in partnership with the German Marshall Fund. In this episode, get ready for the debate with a special episode of “Out of Order,” created by our partners. In this podcast, the German Marshall Fund's president Karen Donfried sits down with senior fellow Peter Sparding to discuss the future of the transatlantic relationship.  Learn mo

Jun 28, 2019 • 32:50

#153 - Is Social Media Good for Democracy?

#153 - Is Social Media Good for Democracy?

A decade ago, Facebook and Twitter promised a digital revolution that would bolster democratic values and empower users around the world. Did that work out? In this episode, we take a look back at one of our most important debates to date. Join four leading thinkers in tech, policy, and media for spirited and timely debate on the motion, "Social Media Is Good For Democracy."Cast your vote on the motion at iq2us.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 14, 2019 • 51:55

#126 - Should the U.S. Give Undocumented Immigrants a Path to Citizenship?

#126 - Should the U.S. Give Undocumented Immigrants a Path to Citizenship?

There are an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States today. In a divided and contentious political climate where immigration is a key issue for voters across the ideological spectrum, what should happen to these individuals? This episode, we take a look back at our debate on the motion, "Give Undocumented Immigrants a Path to Citizenship."  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 31, 2019 • 55:01

#134 - Is Universal Basic Income the Safety Net of the Future?

#134 - Is Universal Basic Income the Safety Net of the Future?

Presidential contender Andrew Yang wants to give every American a monthly check from the government, just to cover the basics. And he's not alone. Business leaders, particularly those in Silicon Valley, and some Democratic politicians are warming up to the idea of a universal basic income as a means to offset the impacts of automation in the workforce. In this episode, we take a look back at our debate on the motion, "The Universal Basic Income Is the Safety Net of the Future." Receive your free

May 17, 2019 • 53:30

#167 - Should Scientists Dim the Sun?

#167 - Should Scientists Dim the Sun?

Right now, climate engineers are working on new technologies that would reflect the sun’s rays away from earth. For some, it’s a bold new plan to combat climate change. For others, it's a dangerous attempt to meddle with Mother Nature. Join four leading climate scientists for a debate on the motion, “Engineering Solar Radiation Is a Crazy Idea.”  Learn more about Intelligence Squared U.S. and cast your vote to decide the winner at IQ2US.org.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoice

May 3, 2019 • 53:15

#166 - All Hail the Driverless Car?

#166 - All Hail the Driverless Car?

What if the next car you buy or taxi you hail drives itself? Join four leaders in autonomous vehicles for a timely debate on whether society should embrace driverless cars or approach these new, controversial vehicles with caution.  Learn more about Intelligence Squared U.S. and cast your vote to decide the winner at IQ2US.org.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 19, 2019 • 53:15

#165 - Should the Republican Party Re-Nominate Trump?

#165 - Should the Republican Party Re-Nominate Trump?

Former Senator Jeff Flake and the New York Times’ Bret Stephens team up to argue the motion, “The Republican Party Should Not Re-Nominate Trump.” They face Kris Kobach, a former Trump advisor and former Kansas Secretary of State, and Fox New’s Liz Peek, who are rooting for Trump 2020. Learn more about Intelligence Squared U.S. and cast your vote to decide the winner at IQ2US.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 5, 2019 • 54:35

IQ2 Interview: Should You Love Your Enemies?

IQ2 Interview: Should You Love Your Enemies?

In this special episode of Intelligence Squared U.S., John Donvan sits down with one of America's leading political thinkers to discuss a bold premise: loving your enemies. Arthur Brooks is a best-selling author and the outgoing president of the American Enterprise Institute. His new book, "Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt", builds on his decades in politics and challenges Americans to love each other despite partisan differences. Learn

Mar 29, 2019 • 52:47

#164 - Can Constitutional Free Speech Principles Save Social Media Companies From Themselves?

#164 - Can Constitutional Free Speech Principles Save Social Media Companies From Themselves?

With David French, Corynne McSherry, Nathaniel Persily, and Marietje Schaake How should the world's largest social media companies respond to a pernicious online climate, including hate speech and false content posted by users? For some, the answer is clear: Take the fake and offensive content down. But for others, censorship - even by a private company - is dangerous in a time when digital platforms have become the new public square and many Americans cite Facebook and Twitter as their primary

Mar 22, 2019 • 53:56

#163 - Unresolved: The Techonomic Cold War With China

#163 - Unresolved: The Techonomic Cold War With China

With Ian Bremmer, Michèle Flournoy, Yasheng Huang, Parag Khanna, and Susan Thornton President Xi Jinping has made it clear: When it comes to big data, advanced weaponry, and other innovations in tech and AI, China has plans to surpass the United States as the world’s next techonomic superpower. But between the trade war with the U.S., the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, and an array of domestic challenges, are China’s goals outpacing its capacity? Or is China building and investing in strate

Mar 8, 2019 • 53:15

Special Release: Can AI Change Your Mind?

Special Release: Can AI Change Your Mind?

In this special episode of Intelligence Squared U.S., we partner with IBM for a historic debate that brings AI to the stage. IBM Project Debater is the first AI system designed to debate humans on complex topics using a combination of pioneering research developed by IBM researchers. In this debate, Project Debater faces world-class debater Harish Natarajan on the motion, "We Should Subsidize Preschool". Still curious about AI? Dive into more debates: Past Debate - Don’t Trust the Promise of AI:

Feb 15, 2019 • 54:09

#161 - Should We Bring Extinct Creatures Back To Life?

#161 - Should We Bring Extinct Creatures Back To Life?

Motion: Don't Bring Extinct Creatures back to Life Once a sci-fi fantasy explored in films like “Jurassic Park,” recent biological and technological breakthroughs indicate that reviving extinct creatures could become a reality. Proponents argue that the benefits include correcting mistakes of the past by bringing back extinct ecosystems and organisms. Others argue it's not ethical, or even feasible. Should humans bring extinct creatures back to life?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podc

Feb 8, 2019 • 54:35

#160 - Ten Years After the Global Financial Crisis, Is the System Safer?

#160 - Ten Years After the Global Financial Crisis, Is the System Safer?

Motion: Ten Years After the Global Financial Crisis, the System Is Safer More than 10 years ago, Lehman Brothers collapsed, and the world witnessed one of the worst financial crises in global history. Has the world learned its lesson and created a more resilient global financial system? Or are we ill-prepared for next time?  Join Us Live In New York on January 31st for "Don't Bring Extinct Creatures Back to Life" - http://smarturl.it/De-ExtinctionTix Foreign Affairs Exclusive Discount - www.For

Jan 25, 2019 • 54:49

Season Preview: New Year, New Debates

Season Preview: New Year, New Debates

Announcing our new season! This winter, we’re taking on new issues, including the state of the global financial system, whether we should try to bring extinct creatures back to life, and whether we’re in a techonomic cold war with China. Our debates will feature leading thinkers like Michele Flournoy, Neel Kashkari, Parag Khanna, Stewart Brand, George Church, Jason Furman, Gillian Tett, Ian Bremmer, and more.  To get your tickets, visit IQ2US.org/buy-tickets or text “IQ2” to 79-79-79.  To join o

Jan 11, 2019 • 4:24

#83 - Should We Avoid Eating Anything With A Face?

#83 - Should We Avoid Eating Anything With A Face?

MOTION: Don't Eat Anything with a Face From the Archive: Are humans meant to be carnivores? Revisit our debate featuring “21-Day Weight Loss Kickstart” author Neal Barnard, Farm Sanctuary co-founder Gene Baur, nutritional scientist Chris Masterjohn, and farmer and author Joel Salatin.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 28, 2018 • 54:05

#105 - Is Smart Technology Making Us Dumb?

#105 - Is Smart Technology Making Us Dumb?

MOTION: Smart Technology is Making us Dumb. Smart technology grants us unprecedented, immediate access to knowledge and to each other -- a ubiquitous and seamless presence in everyday life. But is there a downside to all of this connectivity? It’s been said that smart technology creates dependency on devices, narrows our world to echo chambers, and impairs cognitive skills through shortcuts and distraction. Are these concerns an overstatement of the negative effects of high-tech consumption? Lea

Dec 14, 2018 • 54:07

#159 - Has Silicon Valley Lost Its Soul?

#159 - Has Silicon Valley Lost Its Soul?

Motion: Silicon Valley Has Lost Its Soul. Silicon Valley once promised to solve many of the world's problems with a technological revolution. But now, the tech hub is the center of much scrutiny, and for many, that scrutiny is warranted. From privacy violations to flawed business models to a lack of diversity and representation, Silicon Valley has seemingly betrayed its idealism. And though technological progress has notably enriched a few, Silicon Valley has failed to deliver its promise to all

Nov 30, 2018 • 53:28

An IQ2US Thanksgiving Tradition

An IQ2US Thanksgiving Tradition

Last year, our host John Donvan sat down with Ken Stern, the former National Public Radio CEO, to discuss his book "Republican Like Me: How I Left the Liberal Bubble and Learned to Love the Right, " which chronicles this lifelong liberal's journey through conservative communities and ideas. Ken sat in on Steve Bannon’s radio show, rallied with the Tea Party, spent Sundays in evangelical churches, and went boar hunting in Texas. The result? A new respect for the conservatives he once dem

Nov 21, 2018 • 40:51

#158 - Is Trump Bad for Comedy?

#158 - Is Trump Bad for Comedy?

Motion: Trump is Bad for Comedy From the opening skit on “Saturday Night Live” to “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” to the pages of The Onion, President Trump has become the face of comedy. Some comedians and writers argue that in the Trump era, satire has become more challenging and jokes have become cheap. Trump, according to his critics, has normalized the absurd and the nature of political satire in a post-truth world. But others disagree; they argue that the president serves up comedy-go

Nov 9, 2018 • 53:29

#157 - Will Progressive Populism Save The Democratic Party?

#157 - Will Progressive Populism Save The Democratic Party?

Motion: Progressive Populism Will Save The Democratic Party As Democratic leaders and strategists gear up for the 2018 and 2020 elections, the party stands at a crossroads. For progressive populists, the path forward is clear: Democrats must get back in touch with the party’s working-class roots by championing a specific set of policies, including Medicare for all, free public college tuition, a guaranteed federal jobs program, and housing as a human right. They say this strategy is key to winni

Oct 19, 2018 • 53:15

#156 - Will Retail Alliances Fix the U.S. Health Care System?

#156 - Will Retail Alliances Fix the U.S. Health Care System?

Motion: Retail Alliances – Not Washington – Will Save the U.S. Health Care SystemLast year, Intelligence Squared U.S. and the Mayo Clinic brought to the stage a bold inquiry about whether health care in the United States is terminally broken. And this year, we’re picking up where that discussion left off, against the backdrop of corporate behemoths announcing mergers that, they say, are sure to shake up health care – from the Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway, and JPMorgan Chase venture, to th

Oct 5, 2018 • 54:18

#155 - Unresolved: U.S. National Security

#155 - Unresolved: U.S. National Security

The Three Motions: Is NATO No Longer Fit for Purpose? Is the Russia Threat Overblown? Is It Time to Take a Hard Line on Iran? For the United States, tensions are rising with both allies and adversaries. Rogue states are racing to master new technologies and create weapons of mass destruction. And faith in international institutions is seemingly deteriorating. What does this all mean for U.S. national security? Staged in our "unresolved" format, five esteemed foreign policy thought leaders will a

Sep 28, 2018 • 54:23

Join IQ2US Live in New York

Join IQ2US Live in New York

This Thursday, September 20th, we’re launching our fall series with an evening of debate on the state and future of American national security.  Set in our “unresolved” format, five debaters will fly solo on the following resolutions:    It’s Time to Take a Hard Line on Iran.  NATO Is No Longer Fit for Purpose.  The Russia Threat Is Overblown. _____ Tickets available here: http://smarturl.it/NationalSecurityTix  Use code FRIENDS30 for 30% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoice

Sep 18, 2018 • 4:34

#154 - Has Globalization Undermined the American Working Class?

#154 - Has Globalization Undermined the American Working Class?

MOTION: Globalization Has Undermined America's Working Class Globalization ushered in an era of free trade, fluid borders, and unparalleled corporate profits. For its proponents, the global integration of states and their economies was a political and economic win that created a wealth of opportunities for workers and consumers around the world. But in the United States, jobs are disappearing. From construction zones to clerical offices to coal mines, the American working class is losing ground.

Aug 3, 2018 • 53:31

#153 - Is Social Media Good For Democracy?

#153 - Is Social Media Good For Democracy?

MOTION: Social Media Is Good for Democracy By connecting people across the world for free, platforms like Twitter and Facebook set the stage for a promising digital revolution, providing tools that helped foster global friendships, break down long-standing barriers that kept people and ideas from being heard, and served as the ultimate democratizing force for information. Now, lawmakers in the U.S. and beyond are reeling with questions of how to prevent the spread of digital political propaganda

Jul 20, 2018 • 53:30

#152 - Trigger Warning: Are Safe Spaces Dangerous?

#152 - Trigger Warning: Are Safe Spaces Dangerous?

Debate: Trigger Warning: Safe Spaces are DangerousLong hailed as bastions of intellectual development and ground zero for the free and spirited exchange of ideas, today's universities have come under attack by those who argue that a new generation of students and administrators are trading in academia's most cherished values for political correctness and inclusion. At the heart of this debate is the question of safe spaces, how we define them, and whether they aid or hinder intellectual

Jul 6, 2018 • 53:30

#151 - Will Automation Crash Democracy?

#151 - Will Automation Crash Democracy?

MOTION: Automation Will Crash Democracy Around the world, technology is disrupting the workforce, with automation poised to displace humans in the fields of medicine, agriculture, and beyond. Will the rise of robots fuel a new wave of “us versus them” populism capable of undermining democracy? For some, the answer is yes. They argue that as people lose jobs to robots, the gap between the rich and poor widens, distrust in government and democratic institutions grows, and populist ideas become mor

May 25, 2018 • 55:32

#150 - Can Negotiations Denuclearize North Korea?

#150 - Can Negotiations Denuclearize North Korea?

Motion: Negotiations Can Denuclearize North Korea Will all of the recent goodwill gestures between North and South Korea lead to the one thing Washington wants most? Can a deal be struck that denuclearizes North Korea? And what will they want in exchange for giving up that leverage? Presented in partnership with Georgetown University, LIVE at the first Georgetown University Women’s Forum. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 11, 2018 • 53:51

#149 - Is Bitcoin More Than A Bubble?

#149 - Is Bitcoin More Than A Bubble?

Motion: Bitcoin is More Than a Bubble and Here to Stay. Is Bitcoin here to stay, or is it a bubble waiting to pop? Less than a decade old, Bitcoin is worth billions. The cryptocurrency promises to revolutionize global finance by placing control of currency in the hands of users, not nations, and make financial exchanges more transparent, efficient, and democratic. And it seems to be taking hold: Earlier this year both the Cboe and CME debuted Bitcoin futures. But is Bitcoin really a safe bet? Pr

May 4, 2018 • 55:24

#148 - Should Net Neutrality Be Saved?

#148 - Should Net Neutrality Be Saved?

Motion: Preserve Net Neutrality: All Data is Created Equal.What if a single policy could impact American democracy, culture, and competitiveness? What if that policy might either empower citizens and consumers, or burden them? And what if the decision on that policy sparked a frenzy of legislative proposals, judicial challenges, and citizen outrage, all across the country?The Federal Communications Commission’s decision to end net neutrality regulations has fueled a national debate abou

Apr 27, 2018 • 54:05

#147 - As We Evolve, Do We Need God Less?

#147 - As We Evolve, Do We Need God Less?

Motion: The More We Evolve The Less We Need God.Does God have a place in 21st century human affairs? Michael Shermer, publisher of Skeptic magazine, and cognitive neuroscientist Heather Berlin team up to argue for the motion, "The More We Evolve, The Less We Need God." On the other side is integrative medicine advocate Dr. Deepak Chopra and ER physician Dr. Anoop Kumar.To buy tickets to our live show in Chicago on April 17th, visit IQ2US.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podc

Apr 6, 2018 • 54:25

#146 - Does Humanitarian Intervention Do More Harm Than Good?

#146 - Does Humanitarian Intervention Do More Harm Than Good?

Motion: Humanitarian Intervention Does More Harm than Good. The international community currently faces a global refugee crisis and mass atrocities in Iraq, Myanmar, Syria, Yemen, and beyond. How should the West respond? Proponents of humanitarian intervention – the use of force to halt human rights abuses – argue that the world’s most powerful militaries have a responsibility to protect innocent civilians around the world. Beyond saving lives, they argue, intervention deters would-be abusers an

Mar 23, 2018 • 53:32

#145 - Have Dating Apps Killed Romance?

#145 - Have Dating Apps Killed Romance?

Motion: Swipe Left: Dating Apps Have Killed RomanceEvery day millions of people turn to dating apps to find love. To date, more than 49 million Americans have given digital dating a try and the companies facilitating these matches are raking in billions. But are dating apps really designed to promote long-lasting romance? Apps like Tinder and Bumble make finding a date as easy as swiping right, while digital platforms like Match.com and OkCupid use specialized algorithms to help users f

Feb 14, 2018 • 53:13

#144 - Unresolved: America's Economic Outlook

#144 - Unresolved: America's Economic Outlook

The Three Motions: Is deregulation driving the booming economy? Can the Republican tax bill spur economic growth? And is the stock market too high? By most accounts, the American economy is booming — manufacturing is at a 13-year high, unemployment is at a 16-year low, and both the stock market and consumer confidence are soaring. But just what is driving this upturn? And can Americans trust that current economic conditions will hold up in the months ahead? In our season premiere, five esteemed

Jan 24, 2018 • 53:15

#143 - Do Liberals Hold the Moral High Ground?

#143 - Do Liberals Hold the Moral High Ground?

Motion: Liberals hold the moral high ground. Do conservative or liberal philosophies lead to more just outcomes? Opposing moral philosophies have long fueled debate about America’s policy goals and national identity. For conservatives, morality is grounded in ideals such as patriotism, including a respect for order and authority; fairness and liberty in the sense that an individual’s actions yield just rewards, or consequences; and reverence for the sanctity of religious and moral tradition. Lib

Dec 13, 2017 • 53:15

Guns, Bibles, & Breaking Bread: A Thanksgiving Podcast

Guns, Bibles, & Breaking Bread: A Thanksgiving Podcast

John Donvan sits down with Ken Stern, the former CEO of NPR, to discuss America's partisan politics and how to talk across the aisle -- and your Thanksgiving table. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 22, 2017 • 38:51

#142 - Should College Athletes Be Paid?

#142 - Should College Athletes Be Paid?

Motion: Pay College Athletes College sports is a big-money business, with football and basketball programs generating millions of dollars in revenue every year. While coaches and athletic directors in Division I programs routinely score seven-figure contracts, student-athletes are currently prohibited from sharing in the profits. Is it time to rewrite the rules in college sports and allow athletes their fair share of the profits? Or would providing monetary incentives -- above and beyond existin

Nov 1, 2017 • 53:00

#141 - Is Western Democracy In Danger?

#141 - Is Western Democracy In Danger?

Motion: Western Democracy is Threatening Suicide Do populist and nationalist uprisings signal Western democracy’s certain decline? Or can recent events be seen as part of a healthy and regenerative antidote to policies that have challenged liberal institutions and marginalized the middle class? Some predict that a resilient liberal world order will rally to triumph over fear, xenophobia and fractured political parties – others say that support for autocratic alternatives is on the rise. Four lea

Oct 11, 2017 • 53:00

#140 - Is the U.S. Healthcare System Terminally Broken?

#140 - Is the U.S. Healthcare System Terminally Broken?

MOTION: The U.S. Healthcare System is Terminally Broken Criticized by patients, providers, and politicians alike, the United States healthcare system is hardly a crowd-pleaser. Is the most expensive health care system in the world beyond repair? FOR Dr. Robert Pearl, former CEO of the Permanente Medical Group Shannon Brownless, author of Overtreated: Why Too Much Medicine is Making Us Sicker and Poorer AGAINST Dr. Ezekiel Amanuel, a bioethicist and an architect of the Affordable Care Act Dr. Dav

Oct 4, 2017 • 53:00

#139 - Face-Off with China: Foreign Policy in the Trump Era

#139 - Face-Off with China: Foreign Policy in the Trump Era

Special: "Unresolved" Debate Format Against the backdrop of North Korea's nuclear advances and escalating regional tensions, we ask: How should the U.S. respond to its most urgent national security threats? In a wide-ranging evening of debate, General David Petraeus joins military historian Max Boot for a keynote conversation and broad look into the most pressing global challenges of the Trump era. Then, four of the world's most prominent foreign policy voices zero in on the most important strat

Sep 20, 2017 • 53:00

How to Debate... Yourself.

How to Debate... Yourself.

Think about your most strongly held political belief. How did you arrive at your position? What experiences, information, or opinions influenced you? In the final installment of our summer podcast series on the state of political discourse today, we dive into an increasingly important skill: the ability to debate yourself. Our host John Donvan sits down with Yale Law professor Peter Schuck to discuss his new book, One Nation Undecided: Clear Thinking About Five Hard Issues That Divide Us, which

Aug 30, 2017 • 23:09

A Summer Challenge: Radical Rethinking

A Summer Challenge: Radical Rethinking

Here at Intelligence Squared U.S., we love a good argument – almost as much as we love an audience willing to change its mind. So when the New York Times’ David Leonhardt challenged Americans to do just that this summer, we took notice. In an op-ed entitled, “A Summer Project to Nourish Your Political Soul,” David asked readers to, "pick an issue that you find complicated, and grapple with it." But he didn’t stop there: David then advised readers to, “consider changing your mind, at lea

Aug 9, 2017 • 31:41

The State of Debate on Capitol Hill: The American Health Care Act

The State of Debate on Capitol Hill: The American Health Care Act

Mickey Edwards, former member of Congress for 16 years, and vice president and program director at the Aspen Institute, recalls a more civil time in American politics, when both Democrats and Republicans were more likely to engage in debate on Capitol Hill. In this episode, he speaks with Intelligence Squared U.S. host John Donvan about the ways in which Congressional deliberation has changed over the past 40 years, and paths to restoring open discourse in Washington. To support the show, visit

Jun 27, 2017 • 28:10

#138 - Your Private Data: Can Tech Companies Keep it from the Law?

#138 - Your Private Data: Can Tech Companies Keep it from the Law?

Motion: Tech Companies Should Be Required To Help Law Enforcement Execute Search Warrants To Access Customer Data Do you have a secret that no one else knows? What about Apple, Google, Facebook, Verizon, or Uber? Are you sure they don’t know your secret? Digital data – emails, text messages, phone records, location records, web searches – contain traces of almost every secret. They also contain traces of almost every crime. Tech companies may promise to protect our data from prying eyes. But sho

Jun 14, 2017 • 56:40

#137 - Will Video Games Make Us Smarter?

#137 - Will Video Games Make Us Smarter?

MOTION: Video Games Will Make Us Smarter.As video games gain prominence, some game creators are turning to global issues, such as poverty alleviation, international diplomacy, and combating climate change, for inspiration. Playing these socially minded games, they argue, allows users to build tangible skills in combating crisis and solving critical problems. But others see the multibillion-dollar gaming industry, dominated by portrayals of crime and war, as a threat that desensitizes its users t

May 17, 2017 • 55:15

#136 - Unresolved: Trump's First 100 Days

#136 - Unresolved: Trump's First 100 Days

The first 100 days of the Trump administration have been filled with a whirlwind of new policies and challenges to Washington orthodoxies, and the country is sharply divided. But if we are open to it, we might find that there are reasonable arguments being made by both sides on many issues. And those conversations can start by considering: President Trump’s “America First” policy, and what it means to different people; the administration’s impact on the health of the stock market and our economy

May 1, 2017 • 1:00:11

#135 - Has Walmart Been Good For America?

#135 - Has Walmart Been Good For America?

Walmart has long been a target for critics of corporate expansion, but does the company really deserve the scrutiny? Some say that the big-box retailer devastates small communities by pushing out locally-owned businesses, mistreats its workers through low pay and restrictive work hours, and forces American companies to use cheap foreign labor to produce goods at low cost. Others point to the fact that Walmart provides countless jobs to low-skilled American workers, sells affordable goods, has in

Apr 12, 2017 • 56:06

#134 - Is Universal Basic Income the Safety Net of the Future?

#134 - Is Universal Basic Income the Safety Net of the Future?

Imagine getting a check from the government every month. $600 guaranteed. It's happening in Finland, where a pilot program is being launched to test what's known as a "universal basic income". As technology transforms the workplace, jobs and income will be less reliable. The idea is that a universal basic income could serve as a tool to combat poverty and uncertainly in a changing society, and provide a cushion that empowers workers, giving them latitude to take risks in the job market.

Mar 29, 2017 • 55:56

#133 - Are Charter Schools Overrated?

#133 - Are Charter Schools Overrated?

Motion: Charter Schools Are Overrated In the 25 years since Minnesota passed the first charter school law, these publicly funded but privately operated schools have become a highly sought-after alternative to traditional public education, particularly for underserved students in urban areas. Between 2004 and 2014 alone, charter school enrollment increased from less than 1 million to 2.5 million students. Many charter schools boast of high test scores, strict academic expectations, and high gradu

Mar 8, 2017 • 57:09

#132 - Has the U.S.-Saudi "Special Relationship" Outlived its Usefulness?

#132 - Has the U.S.-Saudi "Special Relationship" Outlived its Usefulness?

Motion: The Special U.S.-Saudi Relationship Has Outlived Its Usefulness In 1945, U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and King Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia met onboard the USS Quincy. A close relationship between the two countries has been maintained ever since, with oil and military and intelligence cooperation at its foundation. But the 9/11 attacks, the U.S. shale revolution, human rights concerns, and diverging interests in the Middle East, have all put strains on this relationship. Has th

Feb 15, 2017 • 55:15

#131 - Should We Give Trump a Chance?

#131 - Should We Give Trump a Chance?

Motion: Give Trump a Chance Donald Trump assumes office having won the Electoral College, but having lost the popular vote. His opponents argue that he gave voice and legitimacy to extremists, and that his unpredictable, autocratic style is a threat to both democratic ideals at home. But others argue that Trump’s election represents the will of the American people, who--hungry for change--repudiated the status quo. In their view, we must find areas of common ground to work together. Should we gi

Feb 7, 2017 • 55:15

#130 - Is Policing Racially Biased?

#130 - Is Policing Racially Biased?

MOTION: Policing Is Racially Biased In 2014, the shooting of Michael Brown by police officer Darren Wilson in Ferguson, Missouri, set off a wave of protests and sparked a movement targeting racial disparities in criminal justice. Since then, there have been other controversial deaths of African Americans at the hands of law enforcement that have captured the public’s attention, from Tamir Rice, to Philando Castile. But there are some who say that these encounters, many of them recorded, have fed

Jan 18, 2017 • 55:15

#129 - Should States Call a Convention to Amend the Constitution?

#129 - Should States Call a Convention to Amend the Constitution?

Motion; Call a Convention to Amend the Constitution Almost everyone can think of something they would like to change in the U.S. Constitution. Some would like to update it to fit new technologies and evolving social mores. Others think the Supreme Court has illegitimately “updated” it too much already, and would like to restore its original meaning. Either way, it is always tempting to invoke Article V to amend the Constitution—to “fix" it, or “restore" it, or “improve" it...  Learn more about y

Dec 14, 2016 • 55:15

#128 - Is Obama's Foreign Policy a Failure?

#128 - Is Obama's Foreign Policy a Failure?

MOTION: Obama's Foreign Policy is a Failure For many, Obama’s presidency will be defined by its accomplishments. Taking out Osama bin Laden, disengaging from fights in the Middle East that America cannot win, defusing the threat of a nuclear Iran, and refocusing our attention and resources to Asia, where our greatest opportunities and biggest long-term challenges are located. But for others, it has been marked by missteps and retreat—pulling back where action and leadership was needed, and presi

Dec 7, 2016 • 55:15

#127 - Has Gerrymandering Destroyed the Political Center?

#127 - Has Gerrymandering Destroyed the Political Center?

MOTION: Gerrymandering is destroying the political center. It is alleged that the practice of gerrymandering—dividing election districts into units to favor a particular group—subverts democracy by making congressional districts “safe” for one party or the other. As a result, only those voting in primaries are in effect choosing our representatives. Are primary voters more extreme in their views, and therefore pulling democrats to the left and republicans to the right? Or is the impact of gerry

Nov 23, 2016 • 55:15

#126 - Should We Give Undocumented Immigrants a Path to Citizenship?

#126 - Should We Give Undocumented Immigrants a Path to Citizenship?

Motion: Give Undocumented Immigrants a Path to CitizenshipThere are an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States, and the question of what to do with them has sparked years of fierce debate, but no significant action. In 2013, the bipartisan “Gang of Eight” managed to pass a comprehensive immigration reform bill in the Senate, only to get it dropped by the House. And in 2016, a deadlocked Supreme Court decision stalled President Obama’s executive actions, DACA an

Nov 2, 2016 • 55:15

#125 - Is "Big Pharma" to Blame for Rising Health Care Costs?

#125 - Is "Big Pharma" to Blame for Rising Health Care Costs?

Motion: Blame Big Pharma for Out-of-Control Health Care Costs. Health care costs in the U.S. are some 18 percent of GNP, nearly double what other rich countries spend. We read of drug therapies that cost $100,000 a year or more, and of drug price increases that are 6 times the rate of inflation, on average, and often much more when mergers reduce competition in the industry. Is this a major driver of excessive health care costs? Or is it a by-product of the huge costs of getting new drugs approv

Oct 19, 2016 • 58:10

#124 - Are the Elites to Blame for the Trump Phenomenon?

#124 - Are the Elites to Blame for the Trump Phenomenon?

Motion: Blame the Elites for the Trump Phenomenon. The elites of both parties have expressed contempt for Donald Trump, and Trump has succeeded in part by channeling his voters’ contempt for the elites. Does support for Trump reflect an uninformed populism and misplaced anger by a large swath of the American electorate? Or have the elites failed to empathize with their struggles, and failed to craft effective policies to help them cope? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/

Sep 21, 2016 • 55:45

#123 - Climate Change: Has the EPA Gone Overboard?

#123 - Climate Change: Has the EPA Gone Overboard?

Reducing carbon emissions is clearly good for the environment but often imposes substantial costs. The costs are most obvious when coal companies go bankrupt, but can affect everyone indirectly through higher energy costs, slower economic growth, reduced employment, and lower business profits. Has the Environmental Protection Agency considered the costs and benefits of its regulatory mandates fairly and appropriately? Is its Clean Power Plan a bold initiative to reduce carbon pollution at power

Sep 14, 2016 • 55:45

Bonus Podcast: The GOP Must Seize The Center Or Die

Bonus Podcast: The GOP Must Seize The Center Or Die

In April of 2013 we held a debate on the motion: The GOP Must Seize the Center or Die. At the time, the debaters could not have predicted Donald Trump’s candidacy or imagined the force of its impact on the 2016 election cycle. In this special podcast, we listen to excerpts of this 2013 debate and consider how times have changed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 13, 2016 • 8:27

Bonus Podcast: The Supreme Court Considers Racial Preferences In State University Admissions

Bonus Podcast: The Supreme Court Considers Racial Preferences In State University Admissions

With the Supreme Court ruling on Fisher v. University of Texas being handed down on Thursday, June 23, 2016, We consider both sides of the issue of race-conscious university admissions. We listen back to our debate from December 2015: The Equal Protection Clause Forbids Racial Preferences in State University Admissions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 24, 2016 • 48:59

#122 - Has The President Usurped The Constitutional Power Of Congress?

#122 - Has The President Usurped The Constitutional Power Of Congress?

Motion: The president has usurped the constitutional power of congress. The Supreme Court is currently poised to decide whether President Obama’s unilateral immigration actions usurped Congress’s power and flouted his duty to “take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.” But some argue that the President is not exercising legislative power; he is simply exercising his well-established executive discretion. Has the President usurped Congress’s legislative power? Learn more about your ad choic

Jun 15, 2016 • 55:26

#121 - Do Hunters Conserve Wildlife?

#121 - Do Hunters Conserve Wildlife?

Do Hunters Conserve Wildlife? In 2014, a permit to hunt a single endangered black rhino was sold for $350,000 as part of a program to support its conservation in Namibia. Counter intuitive? Through funds raised from legal hunting—the purchase of permits in Africa, licenses and taxes here in the U.S.—, hunters contribute significantly to wildlife conservation efforts. Hunting has also become an important tool in the effort to control animal populations, to the benefit of humans and wildlife alike

May 18, 2016 • 57:53

#120 - Eliminate Corporate Subsidies

#120 - Eliminate Corporate Subsidies

The auto industry, agriculture, the energy sector. What do they have in common? These industries benefit from government subsidies in the form of loans, tax breaks, regulation, and other preferences. Critics from the left and right say that not only do these subsidies transfer wealth from taxpayers to corporations, they distort the markets and our economy. Proponents say that government has an important role to play in launching innovation via strategic investment, and its support helps American

Apr 13, 2016 • 56:26

#119 - Should We Trust The Promise Of Artificial Intelligence?

#119 - Should We Trust The Promise Of Artificial Intelligence?

As technology rapidly progresses, some proponents of artificial intelligence believe that it will help solve complex social challenges and offer immortality via virtual humans. But AI’s critics say that we should proceed with caution. That its rewards may be overpromised, and that the pursuit of superintelligence and autonomous machines may result in unintended consequences. Is this the stuff of science fiction? Should we fear AI, or will these fears prevent the next technological revolution? Le

Mar 23, 2016 • 53:30

#118 - Is Free Speech Threatened On Campus?

#118 - Is Free Speech Threatened On Campus?

Protests have erupted on university campuses across the country. To many, these students are speaking out against racial injustice that has long been manifested in unwelcoming, sometimes hostile environments. But to critics, their demands have gone too far, creating an atmosphere of intolerance for opposing or unpopular points of view. Are the protesters silencing free speech, or are they just trying to be heard? And are the universities responding by defending free speech, or by suppressing it?

Mar 8, 2016 • 53:30

#117 - Are Lifespans Long Enough?

#117 - Are Lifespans Long Enough?

What if we didn’t have to grow old and die? The average American can expect to live for 78.8 years, an improvement over the days before clean water and vaccines, but it's still not long enough for most of us. So researchers around the world have been working on arresting the process of aging through biotechnology. What are the ethical and social consequences of radically increasing lifespans? Should we accept a “natural” end, or should we find a cure to aging? Learn more about your ad choices. V

Feb 10, 2016 • 55:44

#116 - Should The U.S. Let In 100,000 Syrian Refugees?

#116 - Should The U.S. Let In 100,000 Syrian Refugees?

Since the Syrian Civil War began in 2011, more than 4 million Syrians have fled the country, creating the greatest refugee crisis since World War II. The United States has taken in just over 2,000 Syrian refugees since the war’s start, and the Obama administration has pledged to take another 10,000 in 2016. What are our moral obligations, and what are the cultural, economic, and security issues that must be taken into account? Should the U.S. let in 100,000 Syrian refugees? Learn more a

Jan 20, 2016 • 52:30

#115 - Does The Equal Protection Clause Forbid Racial Preferences In State University Admissions?

#115 - Does The Equal Protection Clause Forbid Racial Preferences In State University Admissions?

The Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides that: "No State shall … deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” Yet many state universities give substantial preferences to certain races in their admissions decisions. In Regents of the University of California v. Bakke (1978), the Supreme Court approved such preferences, but the case was close, and controversial, and the question will be back before the Supreme Court this term. One side may argue t

Dec 9, 2015 • 54:26

#114 - Can Central Banks Print Prosperity?

#114 - Can Central Banks Print Prosperity?

Central banks all around the world have been printing money. This policy, known as quantitative easing in banker jargon, has driven up the price of stocks and bonds. But will it lead to real and sustainable increases in global growth, or is it sowing the seeds of future inflation? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 25, 2015 • 55:34

#113 - Do U.S. Prosecutors Have Too Much Power?

#113 - Do U.S. Prosecutors Have Too Much Power?

Autonomy and secrecy, complex criminal code and mandatory minimums -- in combination, these factors have given prosecutors enormous leverage, and the opportunity to wield it relentlessly and selectively. Do prosecutors have too much power? Would changes reducing the leverage of prosecutors in the criminal justice system weaken their critical responsibility to prosecute crimes and secure equal justice for all? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 17, 2015 • 52:30

#112 - Should College Students Be Allowed To Take Smart Drugs?

#112 - Should College Students Be Allowed To Take Smart Drugs?

If you could take a pill that would help you study and get better grades, would you? Off-label use of “smart drugs” – pharmaceuticals meant to treat disorders like ADHD, narcolepsy, and Alzheimer’s – are becoming increasingly popular among college students hoping to get ahead. But is this cheating? Should their use as cognitive enhancers be approved by the FDA, the medical community, and society at large? Do the benefits outweigh the risks? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.

Nov 9, 2015 • 52:30

#111 - Should We Raise The Federal Gas Tax To Fund Infrastructure?

#111 - Should We Raise The Federal Gas Tax To Fund Infrastructure?

The Highway Trust Fund provides funding for road, bridge, and mass transit projects across the country – and it’s running out of money. Its revenue source, the federal gas tax, has not been raised in over two decades. There are many arguments for a leaner fund, but proponents of the tax say that it still plays a vital role in supporting infrastructure. Should Congress raise the federal gas tax? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 4, 2015 • 52:30

Bonus Podcast: Is Death Final?

Bonus Podcast: Is Death Final?

If consciousness is just the workings of neurons and synapses, how do we explain the phenomenon of near-death experience? By some accounts, about 3% of the U.S. population has had one: an out-of-body experience often characterized by remarkable visions and feelings of peace and joy, all while the physical body is close to death. To skeptics, there are more plausible, natural explanations, like oxygen deprivation. Is the prospect of an existence after death “real” and provable by science, or a co

Oct 29, 2015 • 48:14

#110 - Are China And The U.S. Long-Term Enemies?

#110 - Are China And The U.S. Long-Term Enemies?

Is China’s ascendancy a threat to the U.S.? China’s rise as an economic and military power, coupled with its aggression in the South China Sea, have led some to call for a major re-balancing of U.S. policy and strategy. Can China be trusted to act as a responsible global stakeholder? And will they be a long-term ally, or adversary? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 21, 2015 • 57:54

#109 - Should Courts Or Campuses Decide Sexual Assault Cases?

#109 - Should Courts Or Campuses Decide Sexual Assault Cases?

High-profile cases have recently put campus sexual assault in the spotlight. One question that has repeatedly come up: why are these cases being handled by campuses at all? Campus investigations may serve a real need, forcing schools to respond to violence and protecting the interests of victims in ways that the criminal justice system may fail. Can schools provide due process for defendants and adequate justice for victims? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adc

Sep 23, 2015 • 54:58

Bonus Podcast: Should We Abolish the Minimum Wage?

Bonus Podcast: Should We Abolish the Minimum Wage?

This is a special podcast for Labor Day. The first attempt at establishing a national minimum wage, a part of 1933’s sweeping National Industrial Recovery Act, was struck down by the Supreme Court in 1935. But in 1938, under the Fair Labor Standards Act, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law a minimum hourly wage of 25 cents—$4.07 in today’s dollars. Three-quarters of a century later, we are still debating the merits of this cornerstone of the New Deal. Do we need government to ensure

Sep 4, 2015 • 50:04

#108 - Does The U.S. Need To Defeat ISIS, Or Is Containment Enough?

#108 - Does The U.S. Need To Defeat ISIS, Or Is Containment Enough?

The region under the control of ISIS continues to expand, despite airstrikes and the deployment of U.S. military advisers. Should the U.S. goal be containment, or can ISIS be defeated? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 18, 2015 • 52:34

Bonus Podcast: Israel Can Live With A Nuclear Iran

Bonus Podcast: Israel Can Live With A Nuclear Iran

The U.S., Iran, and other world powers have reached a final deal to limit Iran's ability to build a nuclear weapon. According to President Obama, "every pathway to a nuclear weapon is cut off." But to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, this deal will go down as "a historic mistake". In 2013, Intelligence Squared U.S. debated whether "Israel can live with a nuclear Iran." Would a nuclear Iran pose an existential threat to Israel? What role does it play in Israel's condemnation of this historic pac

Jul 20, 2015 • 52:19

Bonus Podcast: Obamacare Is Now Beyond Rescue

Bonus Podcast: Obamacare Is Now Beyond Rescue

With the recent Supreme Court ruling that upholds the Affordable Health Care Act, President Obama seems to have secured the legislative cornerstone of his Presidential legacy. But is Obamacare now finally on the road to permanence or is the recent Supreme Court ruling just a setback for a still steady opposition to repeal the law? We'd like to take a moment to look back at a debate we held in January, 2014 just four years after Obamacare was signed into law in 2010. The motion being debated that

Jul 14, 2015 • 49:07

Bonus Podcast: Men Are Finished

Bonus Podcast: Men Are Finished

More women than men are enrolling and graduating from college and their participation in the labor force has grown. So on this Father's Day, alongside the many deserving gestures of love and appreciation, we'd like to take a moment to reflect on what could lie ahead for dear old Dad. The central question arising, are we now at a place where women will achieve in the futurethe same sort of dominane that men have held in the past, or will it always be a man's world?   Learn more about your ad choi

Jun 19, 2015 • 52:25

#107 - Should States Be Required To License Same-Sex Marriages?

#107 - Should States Be Required To License Same-Sex Marriages?

The Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment provides: “No State shall … deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” And now, the Supreme Court is poised to answer the question of whether this clause requires States to license marriages between two people of the same sex. Does the Equal Protection Clause require States to license same-sex marriages, or will marriage be defined as between a man and a woman? Learn more about your ad choices. Vi

Jun 9, 2015 • 52:23

#106 - Is Obama's Iran Deal Good For America?

#106 - Is Obama's Iran Deal Good For America?

In April 2015, the P5+1, the 5 permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany, negotiated an interim nuclear accord with Iran. Among the key parameters: Iran’s enrichment capacity, enrichment levels, and stockpile would be limited; its Fordow site converted into a research center; and the Arak heavy water reactor redesigned. In return, the IAEA would gain greater access for inspections, and U.S. and EU sanctions would be lifted. Many in the U.S. fear that a deal as outlined would not

Jun 2, 2015 • 52:21

Bonus Podcast: Too Many Kids Go To College

Bonus Podcast: Too Many Kids Go To College

It's graduation season, a time for high school seniors to look backand celebrate their formative years before embarking on the next stepon their academic journey: college. But not every graduating senior attends college and perhapsnot every student should. With enemployment for those with bachelor's degrees still at an all-time high and student loan debt surpassing credit card debt, it begs the question whether its really worth it? And calls to mind a debate we had on October 12th, 2011 where th

May 29, 2015 • 50:54

#105 - Is Smart Technology Making Us Dumb?

#105 - Is Smart Technology Making Us Dumb?

Smart technology grants us unprecedented, immediate access to knowledge and to each other -- a ubiquitous and seamless presence in everyday life. But is there a downside to all of this connectivity? It’s been said that smart technology creates dependency on devices, narrows our world to echo chambers, and impairs cognitive skills through shortcuts and distraction. Are these concerns an overstatement of the negative effects of high-tech consumption? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcast

May 20, 2015 • 52:02

#104 - Should We Abolish the Death Penalty?

#104 - Should We Abolish the Death Penalty?

A recent Gallup poll found that Americans are still largely supportive of the death penalty, with 6 in 10 in favor as punishment for murder. At the heart of the debate are many complicated questions. Within a flawed criminal justice system, is it possible to know every person’s guilt with a sufficient degree of certainty? Does the fear of death reduce crime? Are there race and class biases in sentencing? Are some crimes so heinous in nature that punishment by death is the only appropriate measur

Apr 22, 2015 • 52:42

#103 - Has The President Exceeded His Authority By Waging War Without Congress?

#103 - Has The President Exceeded His Authority By Waging War Without Congress?

The President has launched a sustained, long-term military campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. But did he have constitutional power to do so? The Constitution carefully divides the war powers of the United States between Congress and the President. Article II provides that “The President shall be Commander in Chief.” But Article I provides that “The Congress shall have Power … To Declare War.” Did the President exceed his authority and violate the Constitution? Learn more

Apr 7, 2015 • 52:30

#102 - Should The U.S. Adopt The Right To Be Forgotten Online?

#102 - Should The U.S. Adopt The Right To Be Forgotten Online?

In 2014, the European Union’s Court of Justice determined that individuals have a right to be forgotten, “the right—under certain conditions—to ask search engines to remove links with personal information about them.” It is not absolute, but meant to be balanced against other fundamental rights, like freedom of expression. In a half year following the Court’s decision, Google received over 180,000 removal requests. Of those reviewed and processed, 40.5% were granted. Largely seen as a victory in

Mar 18, 2015 • 52:38

#101 - Are Liberals Stifling Intellectual Diversity?

#101 - Are Liberals Stifling Intellectual Diversity?

What is college for? For many, it’s a time for personal and intellectual growth, to meet new people, and to explore ideas and philosophies that challenge their beliefs. Or is it? Recent cancellations of conservative speakers, rescinded honorary degrees, and scrutiny of certain campus groups have heightened perceptions that there is pervasive liberal intolerance on campuses. Are liberals shutting down speech and debate on campus? Or is this theory a myth, based on the preponderance of li

Mar 3, 2015 • 52:30

#100 - Should The World Bet On America?

#100 - Should The World Bet On America?

America owes $6 trillion to China, our sprawling military complex often appears helpless against disparate threats abroad, and the War on Terror has stripped us of the moral high ground. Washington is paralyzed by bitter partisanship, our children are falling behind their international peers, and our middle class is no longer the world’s most affluent. But we’ve been warned about America’s decline before. Remember Sputnik? Yes, times are tough, but America is recovering from the Great Recession

Feb 18, 2015 • 52:30

Tribute To David Carr

Tribute To David Carr

Upon hearing the news of the sudden passing of The New York Times's David Carr on February 12th, 2015, we assembled this rememberance. David appeared on our stage on October 27, 2009 arguing against the debate motion: Good Riddance to Mainstream Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 15, 2015 • 8:47

#99 - Is Amazon The Reader's Friend?

#99 - Is Amazon The Reader's Friend?

In late 2014, Amazon and the publishing house Hachette settled a months-long dispute over who should set the price for e-books. In Amazon’s view, lower prices mean more sales and more readers, and that benefits everyone. But for publishers, the price of an e-book must reflect the investment made, from the author’s advance to a book’s production. The conflict, resolved for now, has only raised more questions about the value of books, Amazon’s business practices, and the role of publishers. Is boo

Jan 22, 2015 • 52:30

Retrospective On The Freedom Of Speech

Retrospective On The Freedom Of Speech

With the world outraged by the attacks on satirical newspaper, Charlie Hebdo, last week in Paris, we think back to our debate from 2006 on the motion: Freedom of Expression Must Include the License to Offend. The debaters were Philip Gourevitch, David Cesarani, Christopher Hitchens, Daisy Khan, Signe Wilkinson, and Mari Matsuda. The complete debate can be heard at http://intelligencesquaredus.org/debates/past-debates/item/545-freedom-of-expression-must-include-the-license-to-offend. Lea

Jan 12, 2015 • 13:16

#98 - Should We Genetically Modify Food?

#98 - Should We Genetically Modify Food?

Genetically modified (GM) foods have been around for decades, and they are developed for a number of different reasons—to fight disease, enhance flavor, resist pests, improve nutrition, survive drought. Across the country and around the world, communities are fighting the cultivation of genetically engineered crops. Are they safe? How do they impact the environment? Can they improve food security? Is the world better off with or without GM food? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastcho

Dec 10, 2014 • 53:37

#97 - Should We Legalize Assisted Suicide?

#97 - Should We Legalize Assisted Suicide?

In 1994, Oregon voters passed the Death with Dignity Act, which legalized physician-assisted suicide for the terminally ill. Since then, it has become legal in 4 more states, including New Mexico, where the state court ruling that it is constitutional is under appeal. Will these laws lead to a slippery slope, where the vulnerable are pressured to choose death and human life is devalued? Or do we need to recognize everyone’s basic right to autonomy? The debaters are Peter Singer, Barones

Nov 20, 2014 • 53:17

#96 - Does Income Inequality Impair The American Dream?

#96 - Does Income Inequality Impair The American Dream?

Income inequality has been on the rise for decades. In the last 30 years, the wages of the top 1% have grown by 154%, while the bottom 90% has seen growth of only 17%. As the rungs of the economic ladder move further and further apart, conventional wisdom says that it will become much more difficult to climb them. Opportunities for upward mobility—the American dream—will disappear as the deck becomes stacked against the middle class and the poor. But others see inequality as a positive, a sign o

Oct 29, 2014 • 53:18

#95 - Mass Collection Of U.S. Phone Records Violates The Fourth Amendment

#95 - Mass Collection Of U.S. Phone Records Violates The Fourth Amendment

Some say that the mass collection of U.S. phone records is a gross invasion of privacy. Others say that it is necessary to keep us safe. But what does the U.S. Constitution say? "The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or

Oct 14, 2014 • 53:17

#94 - Will Flexing America's Muscles In The Middle East Make Things Worse?

#94 - Will Flexing America's Muscles In The Middle East Make Things Worse?

The disintegration of Iraq, Syria’s ongoing civil war, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the promise and peril of the Arab Spring... What role should America play in the Middle East? For some America’s restraint has been a sign of disciplined leadership. But for others, it has been a sign of diminished strength and influence. Are we simply recognizing the limitations of our power, or does this embattled region require a bolder, more muscular, American presence? The debaters are Aaron David Mille

Oct 7, 2014 • 53:20

#93 - Should We Embrace The Common Core?

#93 - Should We Embrace The Common Core?

In K-12 education, there is nothing more controversial than the Common Core State Standards, national academic standards in English and math. Adopted by more than 40 states, they were developed, in part, to address concerns that American students were falling behind their foreign counterparts. Has the federal government overreached and saddled our schools with standards that have been flawed from the start? The debaters are Carmel Martin, Carol Burris, Michael Petrill, and Frederick Hess. Lear

Sep 19, 2014 • 53:38

Retrospective On Hamas And Israel

Retrospective On Hamas And Israel

Rising tensions between Israel and Hamas have come to a head this week with a dramatic eruption of conflict along the Gaza strip, making a debate we held back in 2006, less than a year after Hamas won a majority vote in the Palestinian parliament, all the more relevant today. The motion being debated that night was: Is A Democratically Elected Hamas Still A Terrorist Organization. The debate, held in front of a live audience in New York City, lasted well over an hour. We’ve culled a sam

Jul 11, 2014 • 18:32

#92 - Is There A Constitutional Right To Unlimited Spending On Political Speech?

#92 - Is There A Constitutional Right To Unlimited Spending On Political Speech?

Is independent political speech the linchpin of our democracy or its Achilles' heel? For democracy to work, some say, citizens (and corporations, and unions, and media outlets, and other voluntary organizations) must be allowed to express their views on the issues, candidates, and elections of the day. This proposition, they say, is exactly why the First Amendment protects the freedom of speech and of the press. On this view, restrictions on independent political speech undermine and su

Jul 2, 2014 • 53:17

#91 - Is Death Final?

#91 - Is Death Final?

If consciousness is just the workings of neurons and synapses, how do we explain the phenomenon of near-death experience? Is the prospect of an existence after death “real” and provable by science, or a construct of wishful thinking about our own mortality? The debaters are Dr. Eben Alexander, Sean Carroll, Dr. Raymond Moody, and Dr. Steven Novella. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 14, 2014 • 52:41

#90 - Do Millennials Stand A Chance?

#90 - Do Millennials Stand A Chance?

Millennials—growing up with revolutionary technology and entering adulthood in a time of recession—have recently been much maligned. Are their critics right? Is this generation uniquely coddled, narcissistic, and lazy? Or have we let conventional wisdom blind us to their openness to change and innovation, and optimism in the face of uncertainty, which, in any generation, are qualities to be admired? The debaters are Binta Niambi Brown, David D. Burstein, W. Keith Campbell, and Jessica Grose. Lea

Apr 16, 2014 • 53:09

The Controversy Over Ayaan Hirsi Ali At Brandeis University

The Controversy Over Ayaan Hirsi Ali At Brandeis University

Women's rights activist, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, became the center a media firestorm last week, when Brandies University reversed its decision to grant her an honorary degree. While they commend her for being "a compelling public figure and advocate for women’s rights," many of her past statements against Islam have offended students and faculty at the Massachusetts institution. In this podcast, we hear some of these past statements in the form of an Intelligence Squared U.S. debate from 2010, where

Apr 15, 2014 • 15:00

#89 - More Clicks, Fewer Bricks: Is The Lecture Hall Obsolete?

#89 - More Clicks, Fewer Bricks: Is The Lecture Hall Obsolete?

Is the college of the future online? With the popularity of MOOCs (massive open online courses) and the availability of online degree programs at a fraction of their on-campus price, we are experiencing an exciting experiment in higher education. Does the traditional classroom stand a chance? Will online education be the great equalizer, or is a campus-based college experience still necessary? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 10, 2014 • 53:13

Does Affirmative Action On Campus Do More Harm Than Good?

Does Affirmative Action On Campus Do More Harm Than Good?

Affirmative action, when used as a factor in college admissions, is meant to foster diversity and provide equal opportunities in education for underrepresented minorities. But is it achieving its stated goals and helping the population it was created to support? Its critics point to students struggling to keep up in schools mismatched to their abilities and to the fact that the policy can be manipulated to benefit affluent and middle class students who already possess many educational advantages

Mar 26, 2014 • 52:41

#88 - Is Russia A Marginal Power?

#88 - Is Russia A Marginal Power?

Disarming Syria. Asylum for Edward Snowden. Arming Iran. Deploying troops to Crimea. Is Vladimir Putin flexing his muscles, while our own president fades into the background of world politics, or is it all a global game of smoke and mirrors? Russia is one of the world’s largest oil producers and has the power of veto on the U.N. Security Council, but it remains an authoritarian state, rife with corruption and economic struggles. Is our toxic relationship something to worry about, or is Putin’s R

Mar 20, 2014 • 52:41

Does The President Have Constitutional Power To Target And Kill U.S. Citizens Abroad?

Does The President Have Constitutional Power To Target And Kill U.S. Citizens Abroad?

With the drone strike on accused terrorist and New Mexico-born Anwar al-Awlaki in Yemen, President Obama has tested the limits of the executive branch’s powers. Does the president have constitutional authority under the due process clause to kill U.S. citizens abroad, or is it a violation of this clause to unilaterally decide to target and kill Americans? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 12, 2014 • 52:40

Was Snowden Justified?

Was Snowden Justified?

Has Edward Snowden done the U.S. a great service? There is no doubt that his release of highly classified stolen documents has sparked an important public debate, even forcing what could be a major presidential overhaul of the NSA’s surveillance programs. But have his actions—which include the downloading of an estimated 1.7 million files—tipped off our enemies and endangered national security? Is Snowden a whistleblower, or is he a criminal? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoice

Feb 18, 2014 • 52:42

Is Obamacare Beyond Rescue?

Is Obamacare Beyond Rescue?

With the disastrous launch of the HealthCare.gov website, critics of the Affordable Care Act, or “Obamacare,” were given more fuel for the fire. Is this political hot potato's inevitability once again at stake? And is the medical community really on board with the law, or resisting (rewriting?) it from the sidelines? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 22, 2014 • 52:55

Reconsidering The Minimum Wage

Reconsidering The Minimum Wage

Although widespread retail-worker strikes failed to enact a rise of the federal minimum wage in 2013, on the state level, the tide is turning. Last week 13 states started the New Year by raised their minimum wage, and as many as 11 states, and Washington, D.C., are considering passing similar legislation in 2014. To shed light on the evolving public debate surrounding wage gaps in the US we are revisiting a debate we staged last Spring “Abolish the Minimum Wage.” That evening James Dorn of the C

Jan 8, 2014 • 14:43

Don't Eat Anything With A Face

Don't Eat Anything With A Face

According to a 2009 poll, around 1% of American adults reported eating no animal products. In 2011 that number rose to 2.5%--more than double, but still dwarfed by the 48% who reported eating meat, fish or poultry at all of their meals. In this country, most of us are blessed with an abundance of food and food choices. So taking into account our health, the environment and ethical concerns, which diet is best? Are we or aren't we meant to be carnivores? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit po

Dec 11, 2013 • 52:39

Does Spying Keep Us Safe?

Does Spying Keep Us Safe?

The NSA collects data on billions of phone calls and internet communications per day. Are these surveillance programs legal? Do they keep us safe? If not for the former NSA contractor Edward Snowden, most Americans would be unaware of the vast amounts of information their government is secretly collecting, all in the name of national security. But whether you believe leakers are heroes or traitors, an important public conversation has finally begun, and we should ask ourselves: What tradeoffs ar

Nov 27, 2013 • 52:42

Has The Constitutional Right To Bear Arms Outlived Its Usefulness?

Has The Constitutional Right To Bear Arms Outlived Its Usefulness?

Recent mass shooting tragedies have renewed the national debate over the 2nd Amendment. Gun ownership and homicide rates are higher in the U.S. than in any other developed nation, but gun violence has decreased over the last two decades even as gun ownership may be increasing. Over 200 years have passed since James Madison introduced the Bill of Rights, the country has changed, and so have its guns. Is the right to bear arms now at odds with the common good, or is it as necessary today as it was

Nov 21, 2013 • 52:41

Let Anyone Take A Job Anywhere

Let Anyone Take A Job Anywhere

If we value a free market in goods and free movement of capital, should we embrace the free movement of labor? Reciprocal treaties would allow citizens of the U.S. and other countries to work legally across borders. Would the elimination of barriers in the labor market depress wages and flood the marketplace with workers? Or would the benefits of a flexible labor supply be a boon to our economy, all while raising the standard of living for anyone willing to work? Learn more about your ad choices

Nov 6, 2013 • 52:39

For A Better Future, Live In A Red State

For A Better Future, Live In A Red State

While gridlock and division in Washington make it difficult for either party or ideology to set the policy agenda, single-party government prevails in three-quarters of the states. In 24 states Republicans control the governorship and both houses of the legislature, and in 13 states Democrats enjoy one-party control. Comparing economic growth, education, health care, quality of life and environment, and the strength of civil society, do red or blue states win out? Learn more about your ad choice

Oct 31, 2013 • 52:30

Should We Break Up The Big Banks?

Should We Break Up The Big Banks?

To prevent the collapse of the global financial system in 2008, The Treasury committed 245 billion in taxpayer dollars to stabilize America’s banking institutions. Today, banks that were once “too big to fail” have only grown bigger. Were size and complexity at the root of the financial crisis, or do calls to break up the big banks ignore real benefits that only economies of scale can pass on to customers and investors? The debaters are Richard Fisher, Simon Johnson, Douglas Elliott, and Paul Sa

Oct 23, 2013 • 52:30

Is The Two-Party System Making America Ungovernable?

Is The Two-Party System Making America Ungovernable?

The government shutdown is a dramatic display of the growing strife not only between the Republican and Democratic parties, but also, among the GOP itself. For some, the shut down has even called into question the effectiveness of the American political system, which makes a debate we held back in 2011 all the more relevant today. The motion was “The Two-Party System is Making America Ungovernable”. The team arguing for the motion included Arianna Huffington, co-founder and editor-in-chief of th

Oct 13, 2013 • 16:02

Is The Two-Party System Making America Ungovernable?

Is The Two-Party System Making America Ungovernable?

The government shutdown is a dramatic display of the growing strife not only between the Republican and Democratic parties, but also, among the GOP itself. For some, the shut down has even called into question the effectiveness of the American political system, which makes a debate we held back in 2011 all the more relevant today. The motion was "The Two-Party System is Making America Ungovernable". The team arguing for the motion included Arianna Huffington, co-founder and editor-in-chief of th

Oct 13, 2013 • 16:02

Healthcare Retrospective

Healthcare Retrospective

Although President Obama signed it into law in March of 2010, the Affordable Care Act remains one of the nation’s most divisive issues. Over the past nearly four years, House Republicans have voted 40 times to repeal the law in part or in whole. Just this week, Senator Ted Cruz spent hours on the Senate floor speaking against the healthcare law, while President Obama took the stage at the Clinton Global Initiative to explain intricacies of the healthcare overhaul. So, how has it come to this poi

Sep 26, 2013 • 19:11

Is The U.S. Drone Program Fatally Flawed?

Is The U.S. Drone Program Fatally Flawed?

Remotely piloted aircraft, or drones, have been the centerpiece of America’s counterterrorism toolkit since the start of the Obama presidency, and the benefits have been clear. Their use has significantly weakened al Qaeda and the Taliban while keeping American troops out of harm’s way. But critics of drone strikes argue that the short-term gains do not outweigh the long-term consequences—among them, radicalization of a public outraged over civilian deaths. Is our drone program hurting, or helpi

Sep 17, 2013 • 52:30

Does The U.S. Have A Dog In The Fight In Syria?

Does The U.S. Have A Dog In The Fight In Syria?

Is there a clear course of action the U.S. could take to help the Syrian people that would lead to a better outcome for the country? Or is greater U.S. involvement likely to do little good in the end? The question has taken on a new sense of urgency following a recent attack near the Syrian capital Damascus that left hundreds dead. The Syrian opposition says it was a chemical weapons attack by the Syrian government, a charge the government denies. The Obama administration is now weighing possibl

Aug 28, 2013 • 52:30

Is Cutting The Pentagon's Budget A Gift To Our Enemies?

Is Cutting The Pentagon's Budget A Gift To Our Enemies?

Political gridlock in Washington triggered across-the-board spending cuts, known as the sequester, in March. As a result, the Pentagon was given six months to eliminate $41 billion from the current year’s budget, and unlike past cuts, this time everything is on the table. In 2011, America spent $711 billion dollars on its defense—more than the next 13 highest spending countries combined. But the burdens it shoulders, both at home and abroad, are unprecedented. Could the sequester be a rare oppor

Jun 24, 2013 • 52:30

The FDA's Caution Is Hazardous To Our Health

The FDA's Caution Is Hazardous To Our Health

The Food and Drug Administration, the oldest comprehensive consumer protection agency in the U.S. federal government, is charged with protecting the public health. Under this mandate, it regulates drugs and medical devices for their safety and effectiveness. But is it a failing mandate? It’s long been argued that the FDA’s long and costly approval processes stifle innovation and keep life-changing treatments from the market. But the question remains: when it comes to public health, is it ever ok

May 14, 2013 • 52:30

The GOP Must Seize The Center Or Die

The GOP Must Seize The Center Or Die

2012 was a disappointing year for Republicans. The failure to win key swing states in the presidential election and surprising losses in the House and Senate have prompted some reflection. Was their embrace of small government, low taxes, and a strong conservative stance on social issues at odds with shifting American demographics? Or did the GOP embrace the right platform, but the wrong candidates? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 23, 2013 • 52:30

Should The U.S. Abolish The Minimum Wage?

Should The U.S. Abolish The Minimum Wage?

The first attempt at establishing a national minimum wage, a part of 1933’s sweeping National Industrial Recovery Act, was struck down by the Supreme Court in 1935. But in 1938, under the Fair Labor Standards Act, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law a minimum hourly wage of 25 cents—$4.07 in today’s dollars. Three-quarters of a century later, we are still debating the merits of this cornerstone of the New Deal. Do we need government to ensure a decent paycheck, or would low-wage work

Apr 9, 2013 • 52:30

Does America Need A Strong Dollar Policy?

Does America Need A Strong Dollar Policy?

It’s often taken for granted that America needs a strong dollar. When the value of the U.S. dollar is strong relative to other currencies, it becomes attractive to investors and allows Americans to buy foreign goods and services cheaply. But in times of recession, are we better off with a weak dollar that stimulates U.S. manufacturing by making our goods cheaper and more competitive? Or will the loss of purchasing power and currency manipulation abroad, offset the potential gains? Learn more abo

Mar 22, 2013 • 52:49

Should We Prohibit Genetically Enginereed Babies?

Should We Prohibit Genetically Enginereed Babies?

Imagine a world free of genetic diseases, where parents control their offspring’s height, eye color and intelligence. The science may be closer than you think. Genes interact in ways that we don’t fully understand and there could be unintended consequences, new diseases that result from our tinkering. But even if the science could be perfected, is it morally wrong? Would it lead to eugenics and a stratified society where only the rich enjoy the benefits of genetic enhancement? Or would the real

Feb 22, 2013 • 52:30

Can Israel Live With A Nuclear Iran?

Can Israel Live With A Nuclear Iran?

Over the summer of 2012, despite increased international pressure and economic sanctions, Iran doubled the number of nuclear centrifuges installed in its underground Fordow site, stopping just short of the capacity to produce nuclear fuel.  President Obama has rejected Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s call to draw a “red line” that would trigger U.S. military action. But what would the costs and benefits of military action be? Can Israel live with a nuclear Iran, or could the time be near for

Jan 22, 2013 • 52:30

Science Refutes God

Science Refutes God

On the fundamental question--evolution or creation?--Americans are on the fence. According to one survey, while 61% of Americans believe we have evolved over time, 22% believe this evolution was guided by a higher power, with another 31% on the side of creationism. For some, modern science debunks many of religion's core beliefs, but for others, questions like "Why are we here?" and "How did it all come about?" can only be answered through a belief in the existence of God. Can science a

Dec 11, 2012 • 52:30

Legalize Drugs

Legalize Drugs

It was 1971 when President Richard Nixon declared a "war on drugs." $2.5 trillion dollars later, drug use is half of what it was 30 years ago, and thousands of offenders are successfully diverted to treatment instead of jail. And yet, 22 million Americans-9% of the population-still uses illegal drugs, and with the highest incarceration rate in the world, we continue to fill our prisons with drug offenders. Decimated families and communities are left in the wake. Is it time to legalize d

Nov 24, 2012 • 52:30

Are The Rich Taxed Enough?

Are The Rich Taxed Enough?

How do we fix the economy? The U.S. government's budget deficit is nearing a trillion dollars for the fourth straight year and unemployment remains high. With the Bush-era tax cuts set to expire at the end of 2012, what is the best move for continued economic recovery? Are the nation's wealthiest paying their fair share, or should tax cuts be extended to everyone in the name of job creation? Debaters include Romney's economic supervisor, Glenn Hubbard, economist Arthur Laffer, former Secretary o

Oct 29, 2012 • 52:30

Should The Government Ration End Of Life Care?

Should The Government Ration End Of Life Care?

Just because we can extend life, should we? Two teams of debaters are arguing for and against this motion. The U.S. is expected to spend $2.8 trillion on health care in 2012. If health care is a scarce resource, limited by its availability and our ability to pay for it, should government step in to ration care? In other words, how much is an extra month of life worth? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 16, 2012 • 52:31

Are Elected Islamists Better Than Dictators?

Are Elected Islamists Better Than Dictators?

The popular uprisings of the Arab Spring have left a leadership void that Islamist parties have been quick to fill. A longtime supporter of former strongmen like Egypt's Mubarak and Tunisia's Ben Ali, the U.S. now faces the uncomfortable result of Arab democracy - the rise of Islamist parties that are less amenable to the West than their autocratic predecessors. Will the Islamists, who once embraced violence, slowly liberalize as they face the difficulties of state leadership? Or will it mean th

Oct 9, 2012 • 52:30

Are Super PACs Good For Democracy?

Are Super PACs Good For Democracy?

Money has been flowing through this election season like never before. Some say unfettered political spending is a necessary part of free speech; others argue that approach drowns out many voices. A panel of experts takes on the topic for Intelligence Squared U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 2, 2012 • 52:30

The Natural Gas Boom: Doing More Harm Than Good?

The Natural Gas Boom: Doing More Harm Than Good?

Some people are embracing the wave of increased natural gas extraction in the United States. Others, concerned about the risks, are saying no fracking way. A panel of experts weighs the pros and cons of a boom sparked by hydraulic fracturing in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 17, 2012 • 52:30

Should College Football Be Banned?

Should College Football Be Banned?

In recent years, college football programs have been hit by a series of scandals. And observers have long raised questions about the risks of head injuries. A panel of experts looks at the state of college football in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 15, 2012 • 52:30

Is The Internet Closing Our Minds Politically?

Is The Internet Closing Our Minds Politically?

On the Internet, it's easy to find like-minded people and to frequent sites where you agree with the content. And algorithms are serving up more personalized search content. Are we running the risk of getting trapped in information bubbles? A panel of experts debates for Intelligence Squared U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 23, 2012 • 52:30

Does China Do Capitalism Better Than America?

Does China Do Capitalism Better Than America?

As China experiments with its own form of state-run capitalism, the country has managed to maintain a strong economy while many Western countries are faltering. A team of experts faces off in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate on the motion, "China Does Capitalism Better Than America." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 20, 2012 • 52:30

Is Obesity The Government's Business?

Is Obesity The Government's Business?

In the U.S., more than 78 million adults and 12 million children are obese, prompting some to argue that it's in the government's interest to combat the problem. But others say the government should stay away from people's personal habits. A group of experts takes on the topic in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 13, 2012 • 52:30

Should The U.N. Grant Palestine Full Membership?

Should The U.N. Grant Palestine Full Membership?

In the Intelligence Squared U.S. debate held Jan. 10, four experts on the Middle East face off on the motion "The U.N. Should Admit Palestine As A Full Member State." Could this approach help resolve or exacerbate the long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 18, 2012 • 52:30

#57 - Would The World Be Better Off Without Religion?

#57 - Would The World Be Better Off Without Religion?

A rabbi, a descendant of Charles Darwin, a philosopher and a scholar face off over religion in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 21, 2011 • 52:30

Should Congress Pass Obama's Jobs Bill In Pieces?

Should Congress Pass Obama's Jobs Bill In Pieces?

Supporters say if lawmakers do nothing, the U.S. economy may fall into another recession. But critics say the jobs package just recycles policies that have failed in the past. A group of experts argue the merits of the president's proposals in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 21, 2011 • 52:30

Do Too Many Kids Go To College?

Do Too Many Kids Go To College?

Getting a college degree is often touted as a way to increase your income and your ability to compete in the job market. But are too many unprepared students being pushed into taking on large amounts of debt? A team of experts faces off in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 21, 2011 • 52:30

Do Grandma's Benefits Imperil Junior's Future?

Do Grandma's Benefits Imperil Junior's Future?

The debate over entitlement programs has a generational component that can't be overlooked: Is helping seniors make ends meet only generating mountains of debt that will hamper future generations? A team of experts chewed over that topic in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 12, 2011 • 52:30

Are Men Finished?

Are Men Finished?

Last year, women made up the majority of the U.S. workforce for the first time ever. There are more women earning college degrees than men. Are women taking over the position of power in society, or are things just balancing out after years of male domination? A panel of experts debates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 26, 2011 • 52:29

Is It Time To End The War On Terror?

Is It Time To End The War On Terror?

Ten years after the Sept. 11 attacks and months after the death of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, is it time to move on? Or is it important to maintain the open-ended conflict? Experts take on the question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 14, 2011 • 52:19

Does Freedom Of The Press Extend To State Secrets?

Does Freedom Of The Press Extend To State Secrets?

Does the public's right to know interfere with the government's ability to protect citizens? Four experts go head to head on the issue in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 16, 2011 • 52:29

Should We Stop Taking The World's Huddled Masses?

Should We Stop Taking The World's Huddled Masses?

The U.S. is often referred to as a nation built by immigrants. But in recent years, the debate over the country's immigration laws has reached a boiling point. Do immigrants help the economy? Or do they take jobs away from Americans? Four experts recently went head to head on the issue in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 9, 2011 • 52:30

Is It Time To Clip America's Global Wings?

Is It Time To Clip America's Global Wings?

As the United States grapples with a struggling economy and continuing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, some argue that it's time to scale back its role in the world. A team of experts discusses the pros and cons of this proposition in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 13, 2011 • 52:30

Can Clean Energy Drive The Economic Recovery?

Can Clean Energy Drive The Economic Recovery?

President Obama and other leaders have called for investment in cleaner energy sources as a way to create jobs and spur U.S. economic recovery. But can it really work? A team of experts takes on the question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 14, 2011 • 52:30

Is The Two-Party System Making The U.S. Ungovernable?

Is The Two-Party System Making The U.S. Ungovernable?

Some argue that Americans have been locked into evaluating every issue through a prism of left and right. A team of experts tackles the topic in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 23, 2011 • 52:30

Should The Obama Health Care Law Be Repealed?

Should The Obama Health Care Law Be Repealed?

As Republicans now in control of the House move to repeal the new health care law, a team of experts takes on the question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 19, 2011 • 52:30

Should Airports Use Racial And Religious Profiling?

Should Airports Use Racial And Religious Profiling?

The recent furor over screenings and pat-downs has catapulted airport security back into the spotlight. Should airports be targeting their limited resources differently? A team of experts examines the question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 30, 2010 • 52:30

Is Afghanistan A Lost Cause?

Is Afghanistan A Lost Cause?

After nearly a decade of fighting, Americans are still debating the U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, its toll on the military and its financial cost. A team of experts goes head-to-head on the topic in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 18, 2010 • 52:30

Is Big Government Stifling The American Spirit?

Is Big Government Stifling The American Spirit?

On Oct. 26, a team of experts argued the issue "Big Government is Stifling the American Spirit" during the Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 2, 2010 • 52:30

Is Islam A Religion Of Peace?

Is Islam A Religion Of Peace?

That's how former President George W. Bush characterized it, but some take a different view. A panel of experts takes on the question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 14, 2010 • 52:30

Are Terrorists Criminals Or Enemy Combatants?

Are Terrorists Criminals Or Enemy Combatants?

Some view a law enforcement approach to terrorism as dangerous, while others argue that denying suspects the ability to defend themselves in court runs counter to American values. Four experts recently went head to head on the issue in the latest debate in the Intelligence Squared U.S. series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 22, 2010 • 52:30

Has The Cyberwar Threat Been Exaggerated?

Has The Cyberwar Threat Been Exaggerated?

As succeeding presidential administrations and leaders in the Pentagon devote increasing resources to cybersecurity, some observers are questioning whether the threat of cyberwar has been overstated. A panel of experts debates the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. topic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 18, 2010 • 52:30

Does Obama's Foreign Policy Spell America's Decline?

Does Obama's Foreign Policy Spell America's Decline?

When it comes to foreign policy, some argue that President Obama is alienating the United States' allies as he seeks to make accommodations for nations with whom America has more uncertain relationships, such as China and Russia. And, they say, the administration has been too weak in its policy toward Iran. A group of experts takes on that question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 18, 2010 • 52:30

Is Organic Food Stuffed Full Of Marketing Hype?

Is Organic Food Stuffed Full Of Marketing Hype?

Is paying extra money for organic food worth it? Some argue that the label confers real value, while others claim that organic food has not been proven healthier and that it comes with its own environmental trade-offs. A panel of experts faces off on the topic in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 10, 2010 • 52:30

Are Teachers Unions To Blame For Failing Schools?

Are Teachers Unions To Blame For Failing Schools?

In the quest to remake America's public schools, teachers unions have frequently been blasted as an obstacle to improvement. But do unions really deserve more of the blame than shrinking budgets and other problems? A group of experts takes on that question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 23, 2010 • 52:30

Should The U.S. Scale Back Relations With Israel?

Should The U.S. Scale Back Relations With Israel?

Does the United States' special relationship with Israel come at too high a cost in the Middle East? A panel of experts takes on the question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 18, 2010 • 52:30

Is California The First Failed State?

Is California The First Failed State?

California is in the midst of a budget nightmare. Will the Golden State find a bailout, or has it become the first failed state of the union? A group of experts takes on the topic in an Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 28, 2010 • 52:30

Is America To Blame For Mexico's Drug War?

Is America To Blame For Mexico's Drug War?

In Mexico, thousands of people have died in drug-related violence in the past three years as the government has ramped up its war on drug cartels. But is the United States — with its market for illegal drugs and flow of guns south of the border — to blame? A panel of experts face off on the topic in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 9, 2009 • 52:30

Are Obama's Economic Policies Working Effectively?

Are Obama's Economic Policies Working Effectively?

As the economy slowly begins to recover from the financial meltdown, should the Obama administration get credit for turning things around? Or has the administration failed to do what it takes to really help the economy? A panel of experts takes on the question in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 24, 2009 • 52:30

Good Riddance To Mainstream Media?

Good Riddance To Mainstream Media?

As newspapers go under, the network newscasts lose viewers and the mainstream media in general see more and more of their audience shift online, are we as a society better or worse off? A panel of experts debates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 4, 2009 • 52:30

Will 'Buy American' Policies Backfire?

Will 'Buy American' Policies Backfire?

"Buy American" provisions included in legislation such as President Obama's stimulus package have touched off a heated debate. A panel of experts argues whether they help or hurt the United States in the latest Intelligence Squared U.S. debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 30, 2009 • 52:30

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