Spare Thoughts: Recent Episodes
Jai Saha
London A-Level student Jai Saha hosts a new podcast. In each episode four different savvy teens show up for lively discussion and vigorous debate about big social, economic and political questions.
Find us at www.spare-thoughts.com
With the new school year starting it seems important to re-examine our current education system. Are we teaching students the right subjects? Should people value certain subjects more? Hear thoughts from four more London teens as they discuss the value of different subjects and whether our education system truly fosters creativity.
James Tagg is an inventor and physicist, famous for his role in creating touchscreen technology, the first global mobile network, and so much more. Hear thoughts from James as he explains what it takes to be an inventor, as well as discussing the rise of AI and it's link with creativity, ethics and consciousness
The recent fiasco concerning the European Super League has reignited the debate around the use of money within sport. Hear thoughts from four more London teens as they discuss the current financial state of football today and explore potential solutions to the industry's apparent economic issues.
COVID has painted a picture, both frightening and wonderful, of a world without tourism. But is this new world beneficial and should it remain the norm in the long term? Hear thoughts from four more London teens, as they consider who should be accountable for the impacts of tourism and discuss the economic, social and environmental aspects of this huge industry.
Every year, thousands of students flock to universities hoping to live the 'university experience' and enrich themselves academically. But, is university really worth it, especially given the current COVID situation? Hear thoughts from four more London teens, as they discuss different routes after school, the value of university for a modern career and if it is worth paying for.
Despite COVID, the world's population, especially in poorer regions, continues to grow at a rapid rate. But what does this mean for the future of society? Hear thoughts from four more London teens, as they discuss whether population growth will pose an issue for the world, and explore the ethics of some proposed population control techniques.
This February, Oregon became the first US state to decriminalise the possession of drugs, thus revitalizing the debate around the legalisation of drugs. Hear thoughts from four more London teens, as they discuss whether the UK should follow suit and consider legalising drugs; the potential social and economic impacts of such a move and the role the state has in ensuring the safety and health of its citizens.
Gaming has seen a surge in growth during COVID with so many stuck at home. But is this just benign entertainment? Or is it causing more harm than good? Hear thoughts from four more London teens about the positive and negative impact of gaming on mental wellbeing, physical health, and solutions to addiction.
Music, film and art contribute significantly to our culture. But have they stopped evolving and if so does that matter? Hear thoughts from four more London teens, as they discuss the progression of the Arts. Is art still helping to change society? And will the rise of Artificial Intelligence produce a new cultural epoch?
During the pandemic, healthcare has been on everyone's mind. But what is the best system to solve the world’s health problems? The US and UK have very different approaches with some extreme contrasts - one predominantly privatised and the other public. This week Jai invites thoughts from four more London teens about the accessibility, quality, and economics of these two different systems.
What if we gave everyone a basic sum of money regardless of income? Could this be the solution to many societal problems, especially in a post-COVID world? Hear the thoughts of four more London teens, as they share their views on the pros and cons of a UBI and its impact on people, business and work.
Amazon has eclipsed almost all other online retailers. Millions of us would now consider it an essential service - but has it grown too big and powerful? Hear the opinions of five savvy London teens as they discuss the impact of Amazon on small businesses, consumer choice and workers' rights.