

Open to Debate
America is more divided than ever—but it doesn’t have to be. Open to Debate offers an antidote to the chaos. We bring multiple perspectives together for real, nonpartisan debates. Debates that are structured, respectful, clever, provocative, and driven by the facts. Open to Debate is on a mission to restore balance to the public square through expert moderation, good-faith arguments, and reasoned analysis. We examine the issues of the day with the world’s most influential thinkers spanning science, technology, politics, culture, and global affairs. It’s time to build a stronger, more united democracy with the civil exchange of ideas. Be open-minded. Be curious. Be ready to listen. Join us in being Open to Debate. (Formerly Intelligence Squared U.S.)
Episodes


Should the U.S. Decouple from China?
This episode explores the central question of whether the U.S. should decouple from China, given China's rise as an economic and political rival alongside the U.S.'s dependence on it. The debate centers on the potential risks and benefits of decoupling, with arguments presented on both sides regarding economic stabilit...

Was Trump Right to Be Hard on Soft Power in the Middle East?

Should the U.S. Prioritize Settling Mars?

Is Objectivity Essential to Journalism?

Smart Girl Dumb Questions: Is the Future Bleak?

Think Twice: About Abundance with Derek Thompson

Should We Address the Gender Wage Gap?

UN Efforts in the Middle East: Helping or Hurting?

Is Musk’s DOGE Dodging the Law?
This episode explores the legality of Elon Musk's involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a newly formed entity within the Trump administration. Against the backdrop of accusations of unlawful actions by DOGE, constitutional scholars Laurence Tribe and Michael McConnell present opposing viewpo...

Is it Time to End Daylight Savings Time?

Was Trump Right to Increase Tariffs on Chinese Imports?
This episode explores the question of whether Donald Trump's decision to increase tariffs on Chinese imports was justified. Against the backdrop of a new administration in the White House, the debate features two proponents and two opponents of the tariffs. Proponents argue that the tariffs are necessary for national...

Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

Is It Time to Break Up with Dating Apps?

UNRESOLVED: The Future of the Supreme Court

Has Legalizing Sports Gambling Become a Bad Bet?

Prescription Weight Loss Drugs for All?

Could Identity Politics Help Democrats Engage Men?

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

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