Open to Debate

Formerly known as Intelligence Squared U.S., Open to Debate has been hosting structured, moderated debates on major issues since the mid-2000s. Emmy-winning journalist John Donvan serves as moderator-in-chief, guiding expert panelists through rigorous arguments on topics ranging from AI regulation to assisted suicide to foreign policy strategy. The format is what makes this show distinctive. Two sides present their strongest case on a contested question, respond to each other's arguments, and take audience questions. It's closer to an Oxford-style debate than a cable news shout-fest. Donvan is skilled at keeping discussions focused and pushing back when panelists dodge questions or rely on rhetoric instead of evidence. With 448 episodes and a 4.6-star rating from over 2,100 reviews, the show has cultivated an audience that values intellectual honesty. Episodes release weekly and typically run 45 minutes to an hour. Recent topics have included whether AI should be used in dating, the ethics of global supply chains, and geopolitical strategy questions that don't break neatly along party lines. The mission statement -- "restore balance to the public square through expert moderation, good-faith arguments, and reasoned analysis" -- sounds idealistic, but the show actually follows through on it more often than not. It won't tell you what to think about a given issue. Instead, it gives you the strongest version of each side's argument and trusts you to form your own conclusion. In a media environment dominated by confirmation bias, that's genuinely valuable.