Open to Debate Podcast By Open to Debate cover art

Open to Debate

Open to Debate

By: Open to Debate
Listen for free

About this listen

 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.)Copyright 2023 - For Personal Use Only 633344 Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Is Trump's America a Reliable Ally?

    Is Trump's America a Reliable Ally?
    Jun 24 2025
    Under President Trump, America’s role on the global stage is being redefined — but can other countries trust its allyship under his leadership? Critics argue his transactional approach and threats to abandon allies undermine trust and force nations to reconsider their security. Supporters counter that demanding more from partners is “tough love” that will lead to stronger, more balanced alliances. Now we debate: Is Trump’s America a Reliable Ally? Arguing Yes: Joshua Shifrinson, Associate Professor at University of Maryland's School of Public Policy; Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute Kelly Grieco, Senior Fellow with the Reimagining US Grand Strategy Program at the Stimson Center Arguing No: Liana Fix, Fellow for Europe at the Council on Foreign Relations Charles Kupchan, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and Professor of International Affairs at Georgetown University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    53 mins
  • Free Speech in the Trump 2.0 Era

    Free Speech in the Trump 2.0 Era
    Jun 17 2025
    The new Trump presidency has led to pressure on the First Amendment, and the lines between free expression and political enforcement are blurring. Those who say speech is now freer argue that his actions are restoring viewpoint diversity. Those who argue it’s more restricted argue it’s a crackdown on speech that doesn’t align with the administration’s views, especially in Harvard’s case. In partnership with the Cascades PBS Ideas Festival, we debate free speech’s evolution in the Trump 2.0 era. Nadine Strossen, Senior Fellow at FIRE; Former President of the ACLU Brandi Kruse, Host of "unDivided with Brandi Kruse” Nick Gillespie, Editor-at-Large at Reason, is the guest moderator. Visit OpentoDebate.org to watch more insightful debates. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed on our curated weekly debates, dynamic live events, and educational initiatives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    51 mins
  • BONUS RELEASE: Can America and Its Allies Tolerate A Nuclear Iran, or Is It Time to Stop Them Now?

    BONUS RELEASE: Can America and Its Allies Tolerate A Nuclear Iran, or Is It Time to Stop Them Now?
    Jun 13 2025
    In light of today's breaking news—Israel’s targeted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, and Iran's retaliation—we are re-releasing our episode that confronts one of the most urgent questions of our time. Originally aired in January 2025, this debate has only grown more relevant, with our two experts offering insights critical for understanding the road ahead. 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, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies Arguing TOLERATE: Barbara Slavin, Distinguished Fellow at the Stimson Center Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    54 mins
No reviews yet