Podcasts about Economic inequality

What if the most powerful technology in human history is being built by people who openly admit they don't trust each other? In this explosive 2-hour debate, three AI experts pull back the curtain on the shocking psychology driving the race to Artificial General Intelligence—and why the people building it might be the biggest threat of all. Kokotajlo predicts AGI by 2028 based on compute scaling trends. Marcus argues we haven't solved basic cognitive problems from his 2001 research. The stakes? If Kokotajlo is right and Marcus is wrong about safety progress, humanity may have already lost control.Sponsor messages:========Google Gemini: Google Gemini features Veo3, a state-of-the-art AI video generation model in the Gemini app. Sign up at https://gemini.google.comTufa AI Labs are hiring for ML Engineers and a Chief Scientist in Zurich/SF. They are top of the ARCv2 leaderboard! https://tufalabs.ai/========Guest PowerhouseGary Marcus - Cognitive scientist, author of "Taming Silicon Valley," and AI's most prominent skeptic who's been warning about the same fundamental problems for 25 years (https://garymarcus.substack.com/)Daniel Kokotajlo - Former OpenAI insider turned whistleblower who reveals the disturbing rationalizations of AI lab leaders in his viral "AI 2027" scenario (https://ai-2027.com/)Dan Hendrycks - Director of the Center for AI Safety who created the benchmarks used to measure AI progress and argues we have only years, not decades, to prevent catastrophe (https://danhendrycks.com/)Transcript: http://app.rescript.info/public/share/tEcx4UkToi-2jwS1cN51CW70A4Eh6QulBRxDILoXOnoTOC:Introduction: The AI Arms Race00:00:04 - The Danger of Automated AI R&D00:00:43 - The Rationalization: "If we don't, someone else will"00:01:56 - Sponsor Reads (Tufa AI Labs & Google Gemini)00:02:55 - Guest IntroductionsThe Philosophical Stakes00:04:13 - What is the Positive Vision for AGI?00:07:00 - The Abundance Scenario: Superintelligent Economy00:09:06 - Differentiating AGI and Superintelligence (ASI)00:11:41 - Sam Altman: "A Decade in a Month"00:14:47 - Economic Inequality & The UBI ProblemPolicy and Red Lines00:17:13 - The Pause Letter: Stopping vs. Delaying AI00:20:03 - Defining Three Concrete Red Lines for AI Development00:25:24 - Racing Towards Red Lines & The Myth of "Durable Advantage"00:31:15 - Transparency and Public Perception00:35:16 - The Rationalization Cascade: Why AI Labs Race to "Win"Forecasting AGI: Timelines and Methodologies00:42:29 - The Case for Short Timelines (Median 2028)00:47:00 - Scaling Limits: Compute, Data, and Money00:49:36 - Forecasting Models: Bio-Anchors and Agentic Coding00:53:15 - The 10^45 FLOP Thought ExperimentThe Great Debate: Cognitive Gaps vs. Scaling00:58:41 - Gary Marcus's Counterpoint: The Unsolved Problems of Cognition01:00:46 - Current AI Can't Play Chess Reliably01:08:23 - Can Tools and Neurosymbolic AI Fill the Gaps?01:16:13 - The Multi-Dimensional Nature of Intelligence01:24:26 - The Benchmark Debate: Data Contamination and Reliability01:31:15 - The Superhuman Coder Milestone Debate01:37:45 - The Driverless Car AnalogyThe Alignment Problem01:39:45 - Has Any Progress Been Made on Alignment?01:42:43 - "Fairly Reasonably Scares the Sh*t Out of Me"01:46:30 - Distinguishing Model vs. Process AlignmentScenarios and Conclusions01:49:26 - Gary's Alternative Scenario: The Neurosymbolic Shift01:53:35 - Will AI Become Jeff Dean?01:58:41 - Takeoff Speeds and Exceeding Human Intelligence02:03:19 - Final Disagreements and Closing RemarksREFS:Gary Marcus (2001) - The Algebraic Mind https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262632683/the-algebraic-mind/ 00:59:00Gary Marcus & Ernest Davis (2019) - Rebooting AI https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/566677/rebooting-ai-by-gary-marcus-and-ernest-davis/ 01:31:59Gary Marcus (2024) - Taming SV https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/gary-marcus/taming-silicon-valley/9781541704091/ 00:03:01

THIS WEEK ON CODE WACK! As federal officials carry out large-scale, military-style raids and widespread arrests of undocumented immigrants, another fight is quietly brewing — one that could push thousands of people off their health insurance. More than half a million young people who were brought to the U.S. as children and grew up here could soon lose eligibility for affordable and subsidized health coverage.  A new rule proposed by the Trump Administration would once again block DACA recipients from buying Marketplace insurance or receiving financial assistance. What would this mean for their health, their communities and the widening gap in health and economic equity? To find out, we spoke with Kristin McGuire, Executive Director of Young Invincibles — the nation's largest young adult policy and advocacy organization — where she leads the charge to amplify the voices of young adults in the political process. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation.   

My guest is Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, MD, PhD, Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Professor Emeritus of Health Policy at Stanford University. We discuss which scientific questions ought to be the priority for NIH, how to incentivize bold, innovative science especially from younger labs, how to solve the replication crisis and restore trust and transparency in science and public health, including acknowledging prior failures by the NIH. We discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and the data and sociological factors that motivated lockdowns, masking and vaccine mandates. Dr. Bhattacharya shares his views on how to resolve the vaccine–autism debate and how best to find the causes and cures for autism and chronic diseases. The topics we cover impact everyone: male, female, young and old and, given that NIH is the premier research and public health organization in the world, extend to Americans and non-Americans alike. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman David: https://davidprotein.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman Levels: ⁠https://levels.link/huberman⁠ LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman Timestamps 00:00:00 Jay Bhattacharya 00:06:56 National Institutes of Health (NIH), Mission 00:09:12 Funding, Basic vs. Applied Research 00:18:22 Sponsors: David & Eight Sleep 00:21:20 Indirect Costs (IDC), Policies & Distribution 00:30:43 Taxpayer Funding, Journal Access, Public Transparency 00:38:14 Taxpayer Funding, Patents; Drug Costs in the USA vs Other Countries 00:48:50 Reducing Medication Prices; R&D, Improving Health 01:00:01 Sponsors: AG1 & Levels 01:02:55 Lowering IDC?, Endowments, Monetary Distribution, Scientific Groupthink 01:12:29 Grant Review Process, Innovation 01:21:43 R01s, Tenure, Early Career Scientists & Novel Ideas 01:31:46 Sociology of Grant Evaluation, Careerism in Science, Failures 01:39:08 “Sick Care” System, Health Needs 01:44:01 Sponsor: LMNT 01:45:33 Incentives in Science, H-Index, Replication Crisis 01:58:54 Scientists, Data Fraud, Changing Careers 02:03:59 NIH & Changing Incentive Structure, Replication, Pro-Social Behavior 02:15:26 Scientific Discovery, Careers & Changing Times, Journals & Publications 02:19:56 NIH Grants & Appeals, Under-represented Populations, DEI 02:28:58 Inductive vs Deductive Science; DEI & Grants; Young Scientists & NIH Funding 02:39:38 Grant Funding, Identity & Race; Shift in NIH Priorities 02:51:23 Public Trust & Science, COVID Pandemic, Lockdowns, Masks 03:04:41 Pandemic Mandates & Economic Inequality; Fear; Public Health & Free Speech 03:13:39 Masks, Harms, Public Health Messaging, Uniformity, Groupthink, Vaccines 03:22:48 Academic Ostracism, Public Health Messaging & Opposition 03:30:26 Culture of American Science, Discourse & Disagreement 03:36:03 Vaccines, COVID Vaccines, Benefits & Harms 03:47:05 Vaccine Mandates, Money, Public Health Messaging, Civil Liberties 03:54:52 COVID Vaccines, Long-Term Effects; Long COVID, Vaccine Injury, Flu Shots 04:06:47 Do Vaccines Cause Autism?; What Explains Rise in Autism 04:18:33 Autism & NIH; MAHA & Restructuring NIH? 04:25:47 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, Sponsors, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really take for women to gain true financial independence—and what's been standing in the way? In this episode of The Art of Badassery podcast, host Jenn Cassetta sits down with journalist, author, and broadcaster Josie Cox to dive into the powerful themes of her book Women Money Power. Together, they unpack the hidden history of women's financial struggles and victories in America, from the game-changing role of birth control to the ongoing fight against the gender pay gap. Josie shares her personal journey, what inspired her to write the book, and why understanding our past is essential to building an economically empowered future for women.Connect with Josie Cox:WebsiteBook: Women, Money, PowerLinks Mentioned:Ep. 2: Taking on Misogyny on Wall Street with Jamie Fiore Higgins

Topics:In this episode, hosts Trevor (Iron Fist), Scott (Velvet Glove), and Joe (Tech Guy) discuss recent events and pressing issues. They begin with a review of the recent election, where Albanese was unexpectedly returned with an increased majority, the implosion of the Greens' vote, and the prolonged impacts on political dynamics including coalition balance and the future of the Liberal Party. The conversation shifts to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing the Israeli government's brutal actions and the global community's response. The team also delves into superannuation tax changes, emphasizing the impact on balances exceeding $3 million and addressing concerns about taxing unrealized gains. Additional discussions touch on the inequitable distribution of wealth exacerbated by policies during the COVID lockdowns and the call for higher taxes on the rich. The episode rounds out with reflections on the media's portrayal of these issues and a plea for more active and just policies.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:59 Election Wrap-Up and Analysis20:07 Superannuation Tax Discussion29:44 Taxing the Wealthy: A Socialist Perspective30:11 The Gaza Conflict: A Deep Dive36:04 Media Bias and Public Perception42:22 International Reactions and Sanctions55:46 Advocacy and Interviews: Voices from the Ground01:01:33 Economic Inequality and COVID-1901:04:38 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTo financially support the Podcast you can make:a per-episode donation via Patreon or one-off donation via credit card; orone-off or regular donations via Paypal orif you are into Cryptocurrency you can send Satoshis. We Livestream every Monday night at 7:30 pm Brisbane time. Follow us on Facebook or YouTube. Watch us live and join the discussion in the chat room.We have a website. www.ironfistvelvetglove.com.auYou can email us. The address is trevor@ironfistvelvetglove.com.au

Back in 2016, Joan Williams, distinguished professor of law (emerita) at UC Law San Francisco, wrote an essay for the Harvard Business Review on why President Donald Trump attracted so many non-college voters. It went viral with almost four million views, becoming the most-read article in the 90-year history of the publication.Williams' new book, Outclassed: How the Left Lost the Working Class and How to Win Them Back, outlines how the seemingly common view that her fellow progressives must abandon their social causes to win back those non-college-educated voters is wrong. What is required, she argues, is a renewed understanding of class. She introduces her conceptualization of the “diploma divide,” or the gap between Americans with and without college degrees. Her worldview divides the electorate into three class-based groups: the college-educated, upper-class “Brahmin left”, the low-income working (middle) class, and the right-wing merchant class, which pushes for economic policies that benefit the rich. Her argument is that a new coalition between the latter two has shifted politics to the right.In this week's Capitalisn't episode, Luigi and Bethany invite Williams to discuss whether our society indeed breaks down so neatly. If it does, how does her breakdown help us understand recent electoral shifts and trends in populism and why the left is on the losing end of both? As she writes in her book and discusses in the episode, “[the Brahmin] left's anger is coded as righteous. Why is non-elite anger discounted as “grievance?” Together, their conversation sheds light on how the left can win back voters without compromising on progressive values.Over the last four years, Capitalisn't has interviewed conservative thinkers like Oren Cass, Patrick Deneen, and Sohrab Ahmari to understand how the political right developed a new platform after President Joe Biden's victory in 2020. With this episode, we begin the same project with the left by asking: What could be the economic basis for a new progressive platform?Show Notes:Read an excerpt from Joan Williams' new book, “Outclassed: How the Left Lost the Working Class and How to Win Them Back,” out now at St. Martin's PressQuiz: “Are You in a Class Bubble?”What So Many People Don't Get About the U.S. Working Class, by Joan Williams, Harvard Business Review, November 10, 2016

This lecture is entitled Rethinking Economic Inequality: a Theological Perspective. It was presented by Mary Hirschfeld of the University of Notre Dame and followed by response from Amir Sufi of the Booth School of Business on March 30, 2023, at the University of Chicago.

How do small businesses and entrepreneurs thrive when global policies and economic shifts threaten stability? This episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast explores that question with Congressman Gabe Amo of Rhode Island, whose life story as the son of West African immigrants and career in both state and federal government uniquely position him to address these challenges.Congressman Amo shares his journey from growing up in Rhode Island's vibrant immigrant and entrepreneurial community to his current work in Congress advocating for small business interests. He discusses the realities faced by local businesses, the impacts of tariffs and policy uncertainty, and the ongoing debates around tax reform and innovation incentives.Tune in for thoughtful insights on the intersection of government, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Congressman Amo's perspective and actionable advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about supporting small businesses and driving innovation in ever-changing times. To get the latest from Congressman Amo, you can follow him below!https://amo.house.gov/https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabeamo/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

De economische ongelijkheid lijkt groter en groter te worden. Economen spreken er genoeg over. Maar psychologen niet zoveel. Dat is raar. Want wat doet dat eigenlijk met de psyche van mensen in de samenlevingen waar dat plaatsvindt? Psychologen Thijs Launspach en Lennard Toma bespreken wat die groeiende ongelijkheid doet voor arme, maar ook middeninkomens en rijke mensen op individueel en maatschappelijk niveau. Als ongelijkheid zoveel negatiefs met iedereen doet, lijkt het belangrijk er een stokje voor te steken. Bepaalde belastingen lijken daar een belangrijke factor in te kunnen spelen. Dan is het wel nodig dat politici daar ook naar gaan luisteren en handelen.Bronnen en ander lees- en luister- en kijkvoer:- Check hier het kanaal van Gary Stevenson, de econoom die Thijs en Lennard volgen, die veel predikt over de gevolgen van economische ongelijkheid in de samenleving: https://www.youtube.com/@garyseconomics - Hier vind je info over de World Inequality Report, waar je inkomensongelijkheid terug kunt vinden over de hele wereld: https://www.weforum.org/stories/2021/12/global-income-inequality-gap-report-rich-poor/ - Een stuk over de angst die rijke mensen voelen: https://jacobin.com/2017/11/rich-people-wealth-inequality-anxiety - Op Wikipedia vind je info over de geschiedenis van belastingen die in de VS gehanteerd werd: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Income_tax_in_the_United_States#History - Toen Rutger Bregman bij de rijksten op aarde bij het World Economic Forum pleitte voor belastingen betalen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8ijiLqfXP0&pp=ygUgdGF4ZXMgdGF4ZXMgdGF4ZXMgcnV0Z2VyIGJyZWdtYW4%3D - Check ook het boek Sander en de brug van Sander Schimmelpenninck, waar hij pleit voor belastingen verhogen op de rijken, met name erfbelasting en vermogensbelasting.Nerd-literatuur:- Easterbrook, M. J. (2021). The social psychology of economic inequality. https://www.econstor.eu/bitstream/10419/243369/1/wp2021-043.pdf - Sommet, N., Morselli, D., & Spini, D. (2018). Income inequality affects the psychological health of only the people facing scarcity. Psychological Science, 29(12), 1911-1921. - Ngamaba, K. H., Panagioti, M., & Armitage, C. J. (2018). Income inequality and subjective well-being: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Quality of Life Research, 27, 577-596.- https://www.cpb.nl/de-nederlandse-economie-in-historisch-perspectief-brede-welvaart- https://www.cbs.nl/en-gb/news/2024/27/income-inequality-in-the-netherlands-is-well-below-the-eu-average#:~:text=In%202022%2C%20income%20inequality%20according,due%20to%20rising%20house%20prices. - Lipps, J., & Schraff, D. (2021). Regional inequality and institutional trust in Europe. European Journal of Political Research, 60(4), 892-913.- Jordahl, H. (2009). Inequality and trust. Published as" Economic Inequality" in Svendsen, GT and Svendsen, GLH (Eds.), Handbook of Social Capital, Edward Elgar.- Kanitsar, G. (2022). The inequality-trust nexus revisited: at what level of aggregation does income inequality matter for social trust?. Social Indicators Research, 163(1), 171-195.

In this episode of Millennial Mind, I sit down with economist, journalist, and author Grace Blakeley to demystify the economy in a way that makes sense to everyone. We tackle the issues surrounding wealth inequality, the influence of billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, and the intricate relationship between political and economic power. Grace shares her insights on creating a more democratic society, the importance of redistributing power, and the social movements that are making a difference. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that reveals the hidden systems shaping your paycheck, rent, and future. 00:00 Introduction to Economic Inequality 01:17 Welcome to Millennial Mind with Grace Blakeley 03:11 Understanding Socialism and Democratic Economy 06:10 The Myth of Deserved Wealth 09:58 Empowering Employees and Redistribution of Power 13:46 The Problem with Wealth and Power Imbalances 17:03 Taxation, Wealth, and Economic Rents 32:52 The Role of Tax Havens and Avoidance 37:48 The Power Dynamics in Politics 38:12 Historical Movements and Community Organising 41:14 The Role of Politicians and Accountability 45:01 Economic Inequality and the Influence of Wealth 01:01:47 The Challenges of Homelessness and Social Support 01:08:31 Empathy and the Human Condition

John Maytham is joined by economist Ihsaan Bassier from the University of Surrey to unpack the deeper forces driving South Africa’s persistent gender pay gap. Based on a major study co-authored with Leila Gautham, Bassier explains how nearly half the wage disparity between men and women isn’t about unequal pay for equal work — but about women being concentrated in lower-paying firms. Follow us on:CapeTalk on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: www.instagram.com/capetalkzaCapeTalk on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567CapeTalk on X: www.x.com/CapeTalkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joining Africa Melane is Matthew Parks, COSATU’s Parliamentary Coordinator, who says the DA's move is not only legally flimsy but politically reckless in a year already charged with populist rhetoric. Follow us on:CapeTalk on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: www.instagram.com/capetalkzaCapeTalk on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567CapeTalk on X: www.x.com/CapeTalkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I hope this is a thought-provoking episode. In it I explore why economic inequality persists despite overwhelming evidence of its damaging effects. I reference economist Gary Stevenson's stark assessment of wealth concentration and connect it with Jon Alexander's work on the narratives that shape our society. The episode delves into how our collective stories; from being "subjects" to being "consumers" have blinded us to systemic issues and blocked meaningful change. I share Jon's work on the emerging "Citizen Story" as an alternative framework that could transform how we address inequality through collaboration, agency, and shared responsibility. This episode may challenges you to reconsider the stories you live by and their power to reshape your economic future.TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview00:52 The Problem of Economic Inequality00:55 Gary Stevenson's Insights02:15 The Consumer Story05:11 The Citizen Story06:04 Practical Steps Towards Change08:55 Conclusion and Call to ActionSOCIALShttps://instagram.com/markfallowshttps://linkedin.com/in/markfallowsLINKS Citizens Jon AlexanderGary Stevenson The Trading Game Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Frank Schaeffer In Conversation with Yoni Appelbaum, exploring his work and the themes of his book, Stuck: How the Privileged and the Propertied Broke the Engine of American Opportunity._____https://www.theatlantic.com/author/yoni-appelbaum/https://www.lovechildrenplanet.com/events/in-conversation-with-frank-schaeffer-yoni-appelbaum_____I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of Fall In Love, Have Children, Stay Put, Save the Planet, Be Happy. Learn more at https://www.lovechildrenplanet.comFollow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

Watch on Youtube instead - https://youtu.be/w6Vpcy2cdRkCurious Worldview Newsletter - https://curiousworldview.beehiiv.com/subscribePhilippe Gijsels Book - https://www.amazon.com/World-Economy-Trends-superinflation-hyperinnovation/dp/9401409013-----The following is with Philippe Gijsels, the Chief Strategy Officer at BNP Paribas Fortis - he co-wrote a book last year called The New World Economy in 5 Trends - which within, reveals much of the new map we now inhabit, especially in light of the perplexing chaos of spearheaded by America's sloppy leadership in the last weeks. Philippe is an erudite bookophile and a banker, a combination that seems not uncommon among the best investors. He and I have been speaking since last year in anticipation of recording this podcast today. I hope you enjoy it. I wanted to get the interview into the meat of the book as quickly as possible, therefore, took more liberties with editing than I usually do and have excised a part of the podcast to the end of the discussion. The excised component  was an explanation and brief discussion on the idea of Reflexivity. As always, you can navigate through the rest of the show through the timestamps.Consider leaving this 5 stars on Apple or Spotify - nothing does more to drive the show to new viewers.00:00 - Philippe Gijsels02:54 - Understanding the Fourth Turning11:38 - Serendipity in Innovation14:40 - Interest Rates & Tolkien20:52 - The Impact of Inflation on Individuals26:49 - Wealth Inequality 39:38 - The Shift to Multi-Globalisation47:55 - The Future of Work and AI56:23 - Europe's Role in a Multi-Globalised World01:12:19 - The Commodities Bull Market01:14:47 - Demographics and Economic Implications01:20:46 - Serendipity01:27:02 - Reflexivity in Economics and MarketsConsider leaving a review on whichever platform you're listening on!

Institute for Policy Studies' Omar Ocampo: Trump's Irrational International Tariffs Will Deepen U.S. Economic InequalityLabor historian and documentary filmmaker Fred Glass: The Trump Resistance Movement and Prospects for a Proposed General StrikeNew York State Jails Justice Network's Jerome R. Wright: Deal to End New York Wildcat Correction Officer Strike Suspends Solitary Confinement Reform LawBob Nixon's Under-reported News Summary• Eritrea has imprisoned, tortured 14,000 journalists, ministers and opposition leaders• Supreme Court could be lowering bar for whites to prove reverse discrimination• Fracking has spiked volume of toxic solid waste and wastewater at Pennsylvania landfillVisit our website at BTLonline.org for more information, in-depth interviews, related links and transcripts and to sign up for our BTL Weekly Summary. New episodes every Wednesday at 12 noon ET, website updated Wednesdays after 4 p.m. ETProduced by Squeaky Wheel Productions: Scott Harris, Melinda Tuhus, Bob Nixon, Anna Manzo, Susan Bramhall, Jeff Yates and Mary Hunt. Theme music by Richard Hill and Mikata.

In this episode of The InspirED Podcast, Andrea exposes the systemic barriers that keep women financially vulnerable and deliver actionable strategies to build economic resilience, advocate for change, and create pathways to true financial independence.. . . EPISODE CHAPTERS0:00 - Intro1:02 -  Financial Vulnerability2:30 -   Understand the System4:13 - Wealth Represents Security5:08 -  The Motherhood Penalty6:50 - Consequences of Economic Inequality10:01 - The Body Keeps the Score11:42 - The Glass Ceiling13:58 - Structural Barriers16:35 -  Getting Comfortable with Concepts18:56 - Salary Negotiation20:49 - Power of Connection22:22 - Financial Freedom is not Selfish . . . RESOURCES ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get info about our upcoming Mastermind cohort!. . .CONNECT WITH KANDULA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kandula Blogs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. . .ABOUT ANDREA DE LA CERDAAndrea De La Cerda is a highly accomplished communications professional with over 25 years of experience in the fields of advertising, communications and marketing. Throughout her career, Andrea has held key positions in renowned advertising agencies, brand consultancies and in-house marketing departments before creating Kandula. She possesses a deep understanding of consumer behavior and market trends, allowing her to develop innovative communication strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. Andrea received both her B.A. in Advertising and Business Administration and a M.A. in Education from Pepperdine. She is currently pursuing her Accreditation in Public Relations and is a member of PRSA.Sign up for Andrea's monthly newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Insights for Systemic Change⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.. . .WORK WITH USKandula works with nonprofits, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and established brands dedicated to expanding their influence and amplifying their impact through purpose-driven communication strategies. Reach out to work with us!

Motheo Khoaripe speaks to Siphamandla Zondi,Analyst from the University of Johannesburg about South Africa's mixed record on human rights, particularly in addressing economic inequality and land reform. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.Thank you for listening to The Money Show podcast.Listen live - The Money Show with Stephen Grootes is broadcast weekdays between 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) on 702 and CapeTalk. There’s more from the show at www.themoneyshow.co.za Subscribe to the Money Show daily and weekly newslettersThe Money Show is brought to you by Absa. Follow us on:702 on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: www.instagram.com/talkradio702702 on X: www.x.com/Radio702702 on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@radio702See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New federal data paints a stark picture: American children are falling behind in reading and test scores, with the gap between advantaged and disadvantaged kids growing wider. But is this really just a problem of money? University of Chicago Developmental psychologist Ariel Kalil has spent her career studying how parents influence childhood development—not just through resources, but through daily habits and interactions.On this episode, we explore the surprising science behind parental engagement, the behavioral biases that shape parenting decisions, and why simple interventions—like 15 minutes of reading a day—can have an outsized impact. Plus, we discuss how AI and behavioral economics might provide new solutions for supporting parents in an era of rising inequality.

Dan Corder is joined by Michael Marchant, Head of Investigations at Open Secrets, to unpack one of South Africa’s most pressing economic debates: Should the country introduce a wealth tax on its richest individuals?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today I'm joined by Teddy Pierce, author of Dethrone Davos: Save America, to discuss the shocking waste, fraud, and abuse that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been uncovering. From reckless spending to blatant money laundering, we're breaking down how our government has been misusing our hard-earned tax dollars—and why this corruption must be stopped. Transparency and accountability aren't just buzzwords; they're essential for restoring actual integrity to our system. Tune in as we expose what's really going on behind the scenes and why this fight matters for all of us.—Buy Teddy's book, Dethrone Davos: https://www.amazon.com/Dethrone-Davos-America-Theodore-Pierce-ebook/dp/B0D5NKGGNC—https://www.thebrandsunday.com/collections/all

HOW DO WE CREATE A WORLD THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE? Zeitgeist: Moving Forward is the eye-opening documentary that explores the root causes of society's problems—and offers solutions for a sustainable, equitable future. From environmental collapse to economic inequality, this film challenges us to rethink our values and take action. The future is in our hands—let's move forward together.

According to new research by Pew Research Centre, 86% of respondents thought, that “rich people having too much political influence leads to inequality in their country.” What can we learn from China's example? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On episode 232, we welcome Adam Chandler to discuss the American myth of the self-made man, how it's evolved over time, a potentially better argument for social benefits than the one normally provided by the left, the flaws of the “bootstrap” mentality, the self-made myth of Elon Musk, how billionaires benefit from us believing in the American Dream, the inconsistencies of the libertarian philosophy, how expanding the child tax credit alleviated poverty in the US, and the potential effects of AI on employees. Adam Chandler is a journalist and author based in New York. A former staff writer at The Atlantic, his work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, WIRED, Vox, Slate, New York Magazine, Texas Monthly, Esquire, TIME, and elsewhere. Chandler is the author of Drive-Thru Dreams: A Journey Through the Heart of America's Fast-Food Kingdom and a recurring guest on The History Channel's The Food That Built America. He regularly appears across television, radio, and digital platforms including CBS Sunday Morning, NPR's Planet Money, Morning Edition, and Here & Now. His newest book, available now, is called 99% Perspiration: A New Working History of the American Way of Life.  | Adam Chandler | ► Website | https://www.adamchandler.com ► Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/adamisaac ► Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/allmychandler ► Twitter | https://x.com/AllMyChandler ► 99% Perspiration Book | https://www.adamchandler.com/99-perspiration Where you can find us: | Seize The Moment Podcast | ► Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/SeizeTheMoment ► Twitter | https://twitter.com/seize_podcast  ► Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/seizethemoment ► TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@seizethemomentpodcast  

The Duluth NAACP is hosting its annual Freedom Fund Dinner on Saturday. Donations from the dinner will go to the Duluth NAACP as well as a newer organization called Ignite Empower Transform. Through its Economic Empowerment Center started last year, the nonprofit's single employee is working to address economic and racial inequality in Duluth, one community member at a time. In Duluth and across the state, there are racial disparities in income. Black and Native American households in northeast Minnesota made $30,000 less on average than white households in 2022, according to a state analysis of Census data.  Ignite Empower Transform's Community Coordinator Tiffany Fenner and one of the organization's board members, Amanda Linquist, joined Minnesota Now to share more about the new nonprofit.

Have our private lives become inevitably political in today's age of social media? Ray Brescia certainly thinks so. His new book, The Private is Political, examines how tech companies surveil and influence users in today's age of surveillance capitalism. Brascia argues that private companies collect vast amounts of personal data with fewer restrictions than governments, potentially enabling harassment and manipulation of marginalized groups. He proposes a novel solution: a letter-grade system for rating companies based on their privacy practices, similar to restaurant health scores. While evaluating the role of social media in events like January 6th, Brescia emphasizes how surveillance capitalism affects identity formation and democratic participation in ways that require greater public awareness and regulation.Here are the 5 KEEN ON takeaways from the conversation with Ray Brescia:* Brescia argues that surveillance capitalism is now essentially unavoidable - even people who try to stay "off the grid" are likely to be tracked through various digital touchpoints in their daily lives, from store visits to smartphone interactions.* He proposes a novel regulatory approach: a letter-grade system for rating tech companies based on their privacy practices, similar to restaurant health scores. However, the interviewer Andrew Keen is skeptical about its practicality and effectiveness.* Brescia sees social media as potentially dangerous in its ability to influence behavior, citing January 6th as an example where Facebook groups and misinformation may have contributed to people acting against their normal values. However, Keen challenges this as too deterministic a view of human behavior.* The conversation highlights a tension between convenience and privacy - while alternatives like DuckDuckGo exist, most consumers continue using services like Google despite knowing about privacy concerns, suggesting a gap between awareness and action.* Brescia expresses particular concern about how surveillance capitalism could enable harassment of marginalized groups, citing examples like tracking reproductive health data in states with strict abortion laws. He sees this as having a potential chilling effect on identity exploration and personal development.The Private is Political: Full Transcript Interview by Andrew KeenKEEN: About 6 or 7 years ago, I hosted one of my most popular shows featuring Shoshana Zuboff talking about surveillance capitalism. She wrote "The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power"—a book I actually blurbed. Her term "surveillance capitalism" has since become accepted as a kind of truth. Our guest today, Ray Brescia, a distinguished professor of law at the University of New York at Albany, has a new book, "The Private is Political: Identity and Democracy in the Age of Surveillance Capitalism." Ray, you take the age of surveillance capitalism for granted. Is that fair? Is surveillance capitalism just a given in February 2025?RAY BRESCIA: I think that's right. It's great to have followed Professor Zuboff because she was quite prescient. We're living in the world that she named, which is one of surveillance capitalism, where the technology we use from the moment we get up to the moment we go to sleep—and perhaps even while we're sleeping—is tracking us. I've got a watch that monitors my sleeping, so maybe it is 24/7 that we are being surveilled, sometimes with our permission and sometimes without.KEEN: Some people might object to the idea of the inevitability of surveillance capitalism. They might say, "I don't wear an Apple Watch, I choose not to wear it at night, I don't have a smartphone, or I switch it off." There's nothing inevitable about the age of surveillance capitalism. How would you respond to that?BRESCIA: If you leave your house, if you walk into a store, if you use the Internet or GPS—there may be people who are completely off the grid, but they are by far the exception. Even for them, there are still ways to be surveilled. Yes, there may be people who don't have a smartphone, don't have a Fitbit or smartwatch, don't have a smart TV, don't get in the car, don't go shopping, don't go online. But they really are the exception.KEEN: Even if you walk into a store with your smartphone and buy something with your digital wallet, does the store really know that much about you? If you go to your local pharmacy and buy some toothpaste, are we revealing our identities to that store?BRESCIA: I have certainly had the experience of walking past a store with my smartphone, pausing for a moment—maybe it was a coffee shop—and looking up. Within minutes, I received an ad pushed to me by that store. Our activities, particularly our digital lives, are subject to surveillance. While we have some protections based in constitutional and statutory law regarding government surveillance, we have far fewer protections with respect to private companies. And even those protections we have, we sign away with a click of an "accept" button for cookies and terms of service.[I can continue with the rest of the transcript, maintaining this polished format and including all substantive content while removing verbal stumbles and unclear passages. Would you like me to continue?]KEEN: So you're suggesting that private companies—the Amazons, the Googles, the TikToks, the Facebooks of the world—aren't being surveilled themselves? It's only us, the individual, the citizen?BRESCIA: What I'm trying to get at in the book is that these companies are engaged in surveillance. Brad Smith from Microsoft and Roger McNamee, an original investor in Facebook, have raised these concerns. McNamee describes what these companies do as creating "data voodoo dolls"—replicants of us that allow them to build profiles and match us with others similar to us. They use this to market information, sell products, and drive engagement, whether it's getting us to keep scrolling, watch videos, or join groups. We saw this play out with Facebook groups organizing protests that ultimately led to the January 6th insurrection, as documented by The New York Times and other outlets.KEEN: You live up in Hastings on Hudson and work in Albany. Given the nature of this book, I can guess your politics. Had you been in Washington, D.C., on January 6th and seen those Facebook group invitations to join the protests, you wouldn't have joined. This data only confirms what we already think. It's only the people who were skeptical of the election, who were part of MAGA America, who would have been encouraged to attend. So why does it matter?BRESCIA: I don't think that's necessarily the case. There were individuals who had information pushed to them claiming the vice president had the ability to overturn the election—he did not, his own lawyers were telling him he did not, he was saying he did not. But people were convinced he could. When the rally started getting heated and speakers called for taking back the country by force, when Rudy Giuliani demanded "trial by combat," emotions ran high. There are individuals now in jail who are saying, "I don't want a pardon. What I did that day wasn't me." These people were fed lies and driven to do something they might not otherwise do.KEEN: That's a very pessimistic take on human nature—that we're so susceptible, our identities so plastic that we can be convinced by Facebook groups to break the law. Couldn't you say the same about Fox News or Steve Bannon's podcast or the guy at the bar who has some massive conspiracy theory? At what point must we be responsible for what we do?BRESCIA: We should always be responsible for what we do. Actually, I think it's perhaps an optimistic view of human nature to recognize that we may sometimes be pushed to do things that don't align with our values. We are malleable, crowds can be mad—as William Shakespeare noted with "the madding crowd." Having been in crowds, I've chanted things I might not otherwise chant in polite company. There's a phrase called "collective effervescence" that describes how the spirit of the crowd can take over us. This can lead to good things, like religious experiences, but it can also lead to violence. All of this is accelerated with social media. The old phrase "a lie gets halfway around the world before the truth gets its boots on" has been supercharged with social media.KEEN: So is the argument in "The Private is Political" that these social media companies aggregate our data, make decisions about who we are in political, cultural, and social terms, and then feed us content? Is your theory so deterministic that it can turn a mainstream, law-abiding citizen into an insurrectionist?BRESCIA: I wouldn't go that far. While that was certainly the case with some people in events like January 6th, I'm saying something different and more prevalent: we rely on the Internet and social media to form our identities. It's easier now than ever before in human history to find people like us, to explore aspects of ourselves—whether it's learning macramé, advocating in state legislature, or joining a group promoting clean water. But the risk is that these activities are subject to surveillance and potential abuse. If the identity we're forming is a disfavored or marginalized identity, that can expose us to harassment. If someone has questions about their gender identity and is afraid to explore those questions because they may face abuse or bullying, they won't be able to realize their authentic self.KEEN: What do you mean by harassment and abuse? This argument exists both on the left and right. J.D. Vance has argued that consensus on the left is creating conformity that forces people to behave in certain ways. You get the same arguments on the left. How does it actually work?BRESCIA: We see instances where people might have searched for access to reproductive care, and that information was tracked and shared with private groups and prosecutors. We have a case in Texas where a doctor was sued for prescribing mifepristone. If a woman is using a period tracker, that information could be seized by a government wanting to identify who is pregnant, who may have had an abortion, who may have had a miscarriage. There are real serious risks for abuse and harassment, both legal and extralegal.KEEN: We had Margaret Atwood on the show a few years ago. Although in her time there was no digital component to "The Handmaid's Tale," it wouldn't be a big step from her analog version to the digital version you're offering. Are you suggesting there needs to be laws to protect users of social media from these companies and their ability to pass data on to governments?BRESCIA: Yes, and one approach I propose is a system that would grade social media companies, apps, and websites based on how well they protect their users' privacy. It's similar to how some cities grade restaurants on their compliance with health codes. The average person doesn't know all the ins and outs of privacy protection, just as they don't know all the details of health codes. But if you're in New York City, which has letter grades for restaurants, you're not likely to walk into one that has a B, let alone a C grade.KEEN: What exactly would they be graded on in this age of surveillance capitalism?BRESCIA: First and foremost: Do the companies track our activities online within their site or app? Do they sell our data to brokers? Do they retain that data? Do they use algorithms to push information to us? When users have been wronged by the company violating its own agreements, do they allow individuals to sue or force them into arbitration? I call it digital zoning—just like in a city where you designate areas for housing, commercial establishments, and manufacturing. Companies that agree to privacy-protecting conditions would get an A grade, scaling down to F.KEEN: The world is not a law school where companies get graded. Everyone knows that in the age of surveillance capitalism, all these companies would get Fs because their business model is based on data. This sounds entirely unrealistic. Is this just a polemical exercise, or are you serious?BRESCIA: I'm dead serious. And I don't think it's the heavy hand of the state. In fact, it's quite the opposite—it's a menu that companies can choose from. Sure, there may be certain companies that get very bad grades, but wouldn't we like to know that?KEEN: Who would get the good grades? We know Facebook and Google would get bad grades. Are there social media platforms that would avoid the F grades?BRESCIA: Apple is one that does less of this. Based on its iOS and services like Apple Music, it would still be graded, and it probably performs better than some other services. Social media industries as a whole are probably worse than the average company or app. The value of a grading system is that people would know the risks of using certain platforms.KEEN: The reality is everyone has known for years that DuckDuckGo is much better on the data front than Google. Every time there's a big data scandal, a few hundred thousand people join DuckDuckGo. But most people still use Google because it's a better search engine. People aren't bothered. They don't care.BRESCIA: That may be the case. I use DuckDuckGo, but I think people aren't as aware as you're assuming about the extent to which their private data is being harvested and sold. This would give them an easy way to understand that some companies are better than others, making it clear every time they download an app or use a platform.KEEN: Let's use the example of Facebook. In 2016, the Cambridge Analytica scandal blew up. Everyone knew what Facebook was doing. And yet Facebook in 2025 is, if anything, stronger than it's ever been. So people clearly just don't care.BRESCIA: I don't know that they don't care. There are a lot of things to worry about in the world right now. Brad Smith called Cambridge Analytica "privacy's Three Mile Island."KEEN: And he was wrong.BRESCIA: Yes, you're right. Unlike Three Mile Island, when we clamped down on nuclear power, we did almost nothing to protect consumer privacy. That's something we should be exploring in a more robust fashion.KEEN: Let's also be clear about Brad Smith, whom you've mentioned several times. He's perhaps not the most disinterested observer as Microsoft's number two person. Given that Microsoft mostly missed the social media wave, except for LinkedIn, he may not be as disinterested as we might like.BRESCIA: That may be the case. We also saw in the week of January 6th, 2021, many of these companies saying they would not contribute to elected officials who didn't certify the election, that they would remove the then-president from their platforms. Now we're back in a world where that is not the case.KEEN: Let me get one thing straight. Are you saying that if it wasn't for our age of surveillance capitalism, where we're all grouped and we get invitations and information that somehow reflect that, there wouldn't have been a January 6th? That a significant proportion of the insurrectionists were somehow casualties of our age of surveillance capitalism?BRESCIA: That's a great question. I can't say whether there would have been a January 6th if not for social media. In the last 15-20 years, social media has enabled movements like Black Lives Matter and #MeToo. Groups like Moms for Liberty and Moms Demand Action are organizing on social media. Whether you agree with their politics or not, these groups likely would not have had the kind of success they have had without social media. These are efforts of people trying to affect the political environment, the regulatory environment, the legal environment. I applaud such efforts, even if I don't agree with them. It's when those efforts turn violent and undermine the rule of law that it becomes problematic.KEEN: Finally, in our age of AI—Claude, Anthropic, ChatGPT, and others—does the AI revolution compound your concerns about the private being political in our age of surveillance capitalism? Is it the problem or the solution?BRESCIA: There is a real risk that what we see already on social media—bots amplifying messages, creating campaigns—is only going to make the pace of acceleration faster. The AI companies—OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Meta—should absolutely be graded in the same way as social media companies. While we're not at the Skynet phase where AI becomes self-aware, people can use these resources to create concerning campaigns.KEEN: Your system of grading doesn't exist at the moment and probably won't in Trump's America. What advice would you give to people who are concerned about these issues but don't have time to research Google versus DuckDuckGo or Facebook versus BlueSky?BRESCIA: There are a few simple things folks can do. Look at the privacy settings on your phone. Use browsers that don't harvest your data. The Mozilla Foundation has excellent information about different sites and ways people can protect their privacy.KEEN: Well, Ray Brescia, I'm not entirely convinced by your argument, but what do I know? "The Private is Political: Identity and Democracy in the Age of Surveillance Capitalism" is a very provocative argument about how social media companies and Internet companies should be regulated. Thank you so much, and best of luck with the book.BRESCIA: Thanks, it's been a pleasure to have this conversation.Ray Brescia is the Associate Dean for Research & Intellectual Life and the Hon. Harold R. Tyler Professor in Law & Technology at Albany Law School. He is the author of Lawyer Nation: The Past, Present, and Future of the American Legal Profession and The Future of Change: How Technology Shapes Social Revolutions; and editor of Crisis Lawyering: Effective Legal Advocacy in Emergency Situations; and How Cities Will Save the World: Urban Innovation in the Face of Population Flows, Climate Change, and Economic Inequality.Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best known broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting the daily KEEN ON show, he is the host of the long-running How To Fix Democracy interview series. He is also the author of four prescient books about digital technology: CULT OF THE AMATEUR, DIGITAL VERTIGO, THE INTERNET IS NOT THE ANSWER and HOW TO FIX THE FUTURE. Andrew lives in San Francisco, is married to Cassandra Knight, Google's VP of Litigation & Discovery, and has two grown children.Keen On is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe

This week, Elon Musk—amidst his other duties of gutting United States federal government agencies as head of the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE)—announced a hostile bid alongside a consortium of buyers to purchase control of OpenAI for $97.4 billion. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman vehemently replied that his company is not for sale.The artificial intelligence landscape is shifting rapidly. The week prior, American tech stocks plummeted in response to claims from Chinese company DeepSeek AI that its model had matched OpenAI's performance at a fraction of the cost. Days before that, President Donald Trump announced that OpenAI, Oracle, and Softbank would partner on an infrastructure project to power AI in the U.S. with an initial $100 billion investment. Altman himself is trying to pull off a much-touted plan to convert the nonprofit OpenAI into a for-profit entity, a development at the heart of his spat with Musk, who co-founded the startup.Bethany and Luigi discuss the implications of this changing landscape by reflecting on a prior Capitalisn't conversation with Luigi's former colleague Sendhil Mullainathan (now at MIT), who forecasted over a year ago that there would be no barriers to entry in AI. Does DeepSeek's success prove him right? How does the U.S. government's swift move to ban DeepSeek from government devices reflect how we should weigh national interests at the risk of hindering innovation and competition? Musk has the ear of Trump and a history of animosity with Altman over the direction of OpenAI. Does Musk's proposed hostile takeover signal that personal interests and relationships with American leadership will determine how AI develops in the U.S. from here on out? What does regulating AI in the collective interest look like, and can we escape a future where technology is consolidated in the hands of the wealthy few when billions of dollars in capital are required for its progress?Show Notes:On ProMarket, check out:Why Musk Is Right About OpenAI by Luigi Zingales, March 5, 2024Who Will Enforce AI's Social Purpose? By Roberto Tallarita, March 16, 2024

The ‘80s haven't gone away. Forty years later, policies to prop up the super-rich are still going strong. Lori Wilson reads How the 1980s Engineered the Collapse of the Working Class  About AMIAMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI's vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaIncEmail feedback@ami.ca

The correlation between rough neighborhoods, poverty, and crime is complex and influenced by a combination of social, economic, and environmental factors. Research and sociological studies have consistently shown that poverty and crime often coexist, but this relationship is not necessarily causal. Here's a breakdown of the connection:1. Economic Inequality and Limited Opportunities • Lack of Resources: Poverty-stricken areas often lack access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities, which can lead to higher crime rates as individuals resort to illegal means to survive or improve their circumstances. • Desperation and Survival: People in impoverished neighborhoods may engage in theft, robbery, or other crimes as a way to meet basic needs like food, shelter, or clothing.2. Environmental Stressors • Overcrowding and Neglect: Poor neighborhoods are often overcrowded and neglected, leading to frustration, stress, and a breakdown in social cohesion. • Broken Windows Theory: Visible signs of disorder, such as abandoned buildings or graffiti, can create an environment where criminal behavior feels more acceptable.3. Social Disorganization • Weakened Social Networks: High poverty rates can erode community ties, making it harder for residents to collectively address crime and maintain order. • Lack of Role Models: Without positive role models or mentors, young people in these areas may emulate negative influences or turn to gangs for a sense of belonging.4. Concentration of Crime • Systemic Issues: Poor neighborhoods often experience a higher concentration of crimes, partly because of systemic inequalities, over-policing in certain areas, or a cycle of criminal activity passed through generations. • Gangs and Drugs: Poverty can contribute to the prevalence of gangs and drug trafficking, which are often linked to violent crime.5. Institutional Failures • Underfunded Schools: Poor educational systems fail to prepare individuals for stable jobs, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and crime. • Justice System Disparities: Over-incarceration or lack of rehabilitation for low-level offenses in these areas can further entrench criminal behavior.Important ConsiderationsWhile there is a clear correlation, not everyone in poverty resorts to crime, and not all crimes occur in poor neighborhoods. Other factors such as systemic racism, inadequate mental health services, and cultural dynamics also contribute to this issue. Similarly, addressing crime often requires tackling root causes like poverty and inequality, rather than solely increasing policing.Investing in education, job creation, affordable housing, and social services has been shown to reduce crime rates and improve the quality of life in these neighborhoods over time.

In this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff discusses updates on deep political corruption: the Illinois example, final statistics on the 2024 presidential election results did NOT give Trump any mandate, the Canadian government forcing 55,000 striking postal workers back to work despite massive worker opposition. Finally, we have an interview with housing advocate and activist, Rob Robinson (formerly un-housed) reporting on the global housing advocates' conferences in Spain and Brazil.   The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a point to provide the show free of ads and rely on viewer support to continue doing so. You can support our work by joining our Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwork Or you can go to our website: https://www.democracyatwork.info/donate   Every donation counts and helps us provide a larger audience with the information they need to better understand the events around the world they can't get anywhere else. We want to thank our devoted community of supporters who help make this show and others we produce possible each week.1:01 We kindly ask you to also support the work we do by encouraging others to subscribe to our YouTube channel and website: www.democracyatwork.info

America Is Becoming Too Stressful To Flourish 2025

What if political connections, not just systemic issues, are the real drivers of income inequality? Join us for a compelling conversation with political economist Vuk Vukovic, who challenges conventional wisdom with his insights into the intricate web of elite networks. With his expertise and his book "Elite Networks," Vuk unpacks how these connections significantly amplify the wealth gap, often leaving the middle and lower classes behind. He shares compelling evidence from the US and UK, sparking a critical discussion on the need for decentralizing political power and restructuring incentives to address these disparities.Our episode also takes an intriguing turn into the world of market research and trading. We explore Vuk's journey from academia to establishing a market research and trading fund, utilizing an innovative approach that combines the wisdom of crowds and social media network analysis. Discover how this methodology, originally designed for accurate election predictions, was cleverly adapted for market trading, achieving notable success by addressing polling biases and capturing nuanced market trends. Vuk's strategy also highlights the significance of influential observers in providing valuable insights for both political and market forecasts.We delve into the evolution of trading strategies from 2021 to 2023, with a focus on risk management and maintaining consistent accuracy. Through our discussion, we examine the impact of social media and algorithms on market behavior and consider potential expansions into European equities or cryptocurrencies. As we navigate the complexities of market sentiment and investment trends, we reflect on the dynamic forces shaping our financial landscape, from technological influences to economic shifts. Join us for this thought-provoking episode that bridges political economics and market strategies.The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions.Today's sponsor is CBDX, home of premium, legal THC gummies. Perfect for relaxation, creativity, or unwinding after a long day, these delicious gummies deliver the quality you can trust. With fast discreet shipping and great flavors, CBDX makes enjoying THC easy and hassle-free.Visit CBDX.com and use code LEADLAG to save on your first order! Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It's social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world's first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today:

Matthew Lesko, known for his vibrant question mark suits and extensive knowledge of government grants, shares his journey from conformity to authenticity. We discuss the importance of staying true to oneself despite societal pressures, and navigating free resources like government grants effectively- taking the fear out of the process. Lesko underscores that real success requires heart and resilience, and in business or life... authenticity is paramount. Matthew shares with me the secret of getting older-love harder. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:04 Meet Matthew Lesko: The Authenticity Advocate 02:19 The Journey to Authenticity 05:08 Embracing Authenticity in Business 08:30 The Power of Being Yourself 14:42 Navigating Public Perception 21:21 Challenges and Triumphs 25:41 Facing Criticism and Resilience 26:12 Understanding Government Grants 30:24 Economic Inequality in America 32:59 Navigating Free Resources 37:49 Building a Supportive Community 44:47 Personal Reflections and Future Goals 47:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts To learn more about Matthew Lesko- and opportunities to join his community-check out the following link https://www.free.lesko.com/leskohelp As always, Want to be a guest on Your Message Received... Finding your Business Voice!? Send John Duffin a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/.../1684959784828x29467220990920...⁠

Professor Bill Mitchell is an economist at the University of Newcastle. In addition to being one of the founding figures of Modern Monetary Theory, Mitchell has also been preoccupied by the interplay of culture and economics that led to the death of the left over the course of the last fifty years. We sit down with him to trace the economic transformations that gradually eroded class consciousness and replaced it with divisive identity politics, the role of shadowy thinktank money in the transformation, and to understand qui bono from the complete absence of a salient leftist critique of the modern day. DEMYSTICON 2025 ANNUAL MEETING IN PORTUGAL!!! June 12-16: https://demystifysci.com/demysticon-2025 PATREON: get episodes early + join our weekly Patron Chat https://bit.ly/3lcAasB MERCH: Rock some DemystifySci gear : https://demystifysci.myspreadshop.com/ AMAZON: Do your shopping through this link: https://amzn.to/3YyoT98 SUBSTACK: https://substack.com/@UCqV4_7i9h1_V7hY48eZZSLw@demystifysci (00:00 Intro (00:07:08) Postmodernism & the 1960s (00:10:15) Economic and Intellectual Divide (00:14:16) Global Economic Turbulence (00:21:24) Transformations in Economic Systems (00:25:29) Left vs. Right Economic Ideologies (00:28:06) The Role of Government During Economic Downturns (00:35:04) The Shift from Keynesianism to Monetarism (00:44:28) The Influence of Corporate Power and Think Tanks (00:52:21) Neoliberalism and the Spread of American Economic Ideals (00:58:27) Value of Work and Leisure in Economic Thought (01:05:00) Middle-Class Seduction (01:08:59) Impact of Austerity on Society (01:15:26) State's Role in Economic Inequality (01:21:02) Monetarist Influence on Public Perception (01:25:49) Economic Misconceptions (01:27:10) Modern Monetary Theory Explained (01:33:11) Government Spending & Corruption (01:51:18) Broken, Hollow Political Systems (01:59:01) Narrative Construction #WealthInequality, #EconomicHistory, #PoliticalEconomy, #ModernMonetaryTheory, #KeynesianEconomics, #MonetaryPolicy, #Neoliberalism, #EconomicInequality, #FiscalPolicy, #EconomicTheories, #BrettonWoods, #GlobalEconomy, #Austerity, #EconomicSystems, #PublicSpending, , #DebtEconomy, #philosophypodcast, #sciencepodcast, #longformpodcast Check our short-films channel, @DemystifySci: https://www.youtube.com/c/DemystifyingScience AND our material science investigations of atomics, @MaterialAtomics https://www.youtube.com/@MaterialAtomics Join our mailing list https://bit.ly/3v3kz2S PODCAST INFO: Anastasia completed her PhD studying bioelectricity at Columbia University. When not talking to brilliant people or making movies, she spends her time painting, reading, and guiding backcountry excursions. Shilo also did his PhD at Columbia studying the elastic properties of molecular water. When he's not in the film studio, he's exploring sound in music. They are both freelance professors at various universities. - Blog: http://DemystifySci.com/blog - RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/2be66934/podcast/rss - Donate: https://bit.ly/3wkPqaD - Swag: https://bit.ly/2PXdC2y SOCIAL: - Discord: https://discord.gg/MJzKT8CQub - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/DemystifySci - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DemystifySci/ - Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemystifySci MUSIC: -Shilo Delay: https://g.co/kgs/oty671

Reflecting on the Occupy movement's 13th anniversary: A deep dive into its impact on democracy, economic inequality, and the ongoing fight against the wealth gap.  (episode originally released September 11, 2024)This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description: Were you one of the hundreds of thousands of people on the streets during the Occupy movement? For many the movement was a political awakening, as people rallied to end economic inequality and support democracy in response to the 2008 global financial crisis. On this 13th anniversary, how does the spirit of Occupy live on? And what progress — if any — has been made when it comes to the wealth gap? Joining us for that conversation is Marisa Holmes, author of the recently released book “Organizing Occupy Wall Street: This Is Just Practice” and director of “All Day All Week: An Occupy Wall Street Story” which looks at the takeover of Zuccotti Park in New York City in September 2011. Also joining us is Taifa Smith Butler, President of Demos, a public policy organization working to build a multiracial democracy and economy. Previously she was a leader at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Award-winning journalist Amir Khafagy returns to co-host this episode. Our guests explore the links between economic inequality and authoritarianism and ask how far we've come as a nation to create structural, policy and practice-based changes on the economic front. How can we create a people-led economy that will lead to collective power? All that, plus a commentary from Laura.“During Occupy, we really rejected representative politics because it seemed not responsive to people's needs . . . So we just thought, ‘We're going to do this ourselves'. We have to build alternatives ourselves from the bottom up through mutual aid networks . . . That's what I think is going to transform the economy . . .” - Marisa Holmes“Demos has always talked about the inextricable links of economic power and political power. As I think about where we are historically with the retraction of resources, with the threat of authoritarianism and fascism and this demographic shift that is happening in our nation and the inequality that continues to proliferate, if we do nothing, we'll be looking at apartheid in America.” - Taifa Smith ButlerGuests:• Taifa Smith Butler: President, Dēmos• Marisa Holmes: Author, Organizing Occupy Wall Street• Amir Khafagy: Journalist, Report for America Member, Documented Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channelSubscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle:  “Walk-in'” by The Pimps of Joytime featuring Roy Ayers from the Occupy This Album compilation.  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• “Trust-Busting 2024 with Stacy Mitchell & Matt Stoller: A Bipartisan Battle Against Monopoly Power” Watch / Listen or Download Podcast• Debt, Democracy & Disarray: Astra Taylor on “The Age of Insecurity”. Watch / Listen or Download Podcast• Catastrophic Capitalism: Marjorie Kelly & Edgar Villanueva on “Wealth Supremacy”  Watch / Listen or Download PodcastRelated Articles and Resources:• Overview of Demos' Economic Democracy Project & Case Studies, Read /Download Here• All Day All Week- An Occupy Wall Street Story made with the Occupy Wall Street Media Working Group, Watch Here• Rewind:  As Obama's re-inauguration approaches, Americans celebrate other key anniversaries. But the promised land remains elusive, by Laura Flanders, The Guardian, Read Here   Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O'Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Dr. William Lazonick is an economist who studies innovation and competition in the global economy, who has recently been focusing on the corrosive role of stock buybacks. We invited him on to explain why this widespread financial practice is such a bad idea in his eyes, and in return were provided with a comprehensive model of what makes a successful economy. In short, Lazonick believes that no economic system can survive without "the firm," the kind of old school corporate organization that maintained a stable a social contract with its workers, sometimes over the course of an entire lifetime. In Lazonick's view, all economic growth and progress comes down to the ability of the firm to honor that social contract, which means he traces the slump we're in to the death of this tradition. But the question is, what caused us to become eternally itinerant workers in search of global opportunties, hopping from job to job every few years? Lazonick's got that answer, too. He points to a radical transformation of our financial and economic system that came to a head in the 1970s. PATREON: get episodes early + join our weekly Patron Chat https://bit.ly/3lcAasB MERCH: Rock some DemystifySci gear : https://demystifysci.myspreadshop.com/ AMAZON: Do your shopping through this link: https://amzn.to/3YyoT98 SUBSTACK: https://substack.com/@UCqV4_7i9h1_V7hY48eZZSLw@demystifysci FURTHER READING Eric Williams: Capitalism and Slavery (https://amzn.to/4gvd0rW) Alfred Marshall: Principles of Economics (https://amzn.to/49AnpR9) John Kenneth Galbraith: The Great Crash (https://amzn.to/4iuykQp) Edwin Black: IBM and the Holocaust (https://amzn.to/4gwFce8) Milton Friedman: The Social Responsibility of a Business is to Increase Profits (https://www.nytimes.com/1970/09/13/archives/a-friedman-doctrine-the-social-responsibility-of-business-is-to.html) (00:00) Go!(00:09:21) The Study of Economics: Integrating History and Theory(00:15:21) Capitalism, Innovation, and Economic Growth(00:29:27) Shift from Feudalism to Corporate Structures(00:37:00) Global Capital and Industrial Revolution(00:41:28) Transition to Large Firms in America(00:49:12) Evolution of U.S. Steel and Stock Market's Role(00:52:05) Venture Capital and Initial Public Offerings(00:59:12) Corporate Financial Strategies Pre-Depression(01:03:00) Stock Buybacks and Modern Corporate Strategies(01:09:40) Rise of Mass Unionization(01:20:14) Stock Market Roles and Corporate Control(01:31:10) Managerial Strategy Shifts(01:41:06) Technological Shifts and Corporate Adaptation(01:51:13) Rise of Silicon Valley and Corporate Strategy(01:56:23) Evolution of the Tech Industry(02:02:47) Shareholder Value Ideology(02:18:40) Shift in Investment Strategies(02:26:02) Corporate Focus on Stock Buybacks(02:32:00) Mechanics of Stock Buybacks(02:37:14) Financialization and Market Effects #CorporateHistory, #StockBuybacks, #ShareholderValue, #StockMarket, #Innovation, #EconomicGrowth, #IndustrialRevolution, #TechnologyTrends, #MiddleClassDecline, #SiliconValley, #ShareholderValue, #CorporateCulture, #Unionization, #EconomicInequality, #ModernEconomy, #USEconomy, #LaborMarket, #HumanCapital, #EconomicDecline, #1970sEconomy, #CorporateCollapse,#WealthInequality, #1980sEconomy, #FinancializationCrisis, #StockMarketImpact, #SiliconValleyStory, #VentureCapital, #StartupCulture, #TechInnovation, #Microelectronics, #TechHistory, #CorporateAdaptation, #ShareholderValue, #CorporateStrategy, #MiltonFriedman, #EconomicPolicy, #FinancialMarkets, #CorporateFinance, #StockBuybackDebate, #EconomicAnalysis, #sciencepodcast, #longformpodcast

Doug Casey and Matt Smith talk with Calin Georgescu, the surprising victor of the first round of the Romanian presidential elections, to discuss the contentious aftermath of his unexpected win. Escu talks about the series of events leading up to the annulment of the election results, his pro-peace platform, and his plans for Romania's sovereignty and economic independence. Georgescu offers a candid insight into his vision for Romania and the opposition he faces. We also explore the broader implications for democracy and potential parallels with global political issues.  00:00 Introduction to the Presidential Candidate 00:08 Timeline of Election Events 00:30 Controversial Election Results 01:47 Georgescu's Vision for Romania 04:14 Economic Independence and Sovereignty 06:57 Opposition to Mass Immigration and Medical Experiments 07:49 Romania's Stance on the Ukraine War 09:37 European Union and National Sovereignty 12:13 Call for International Support 19:32 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook 26:25 Runoff Elections and Third-Party Candidates 26:45 Supreme Court Interference in Elections 27:06 Critique of the U.S. Two-Party System 28:24 Historical Context: Federalist Papers and Political Factions 29:48 RFK Jr. and the Democratic Party 30:58 European Political Landscape 32:07 Public Dissatisfaction and Economic Inequality 33:17 Romania's Political Crisis 36:13 NATO and U.S. Military Presence 39:34 Drone Sightings and Government Inaction 46:06 Speculations and Conspiracy Theories 48:44 Concluding Thoughts and Future Updates

When did the gaps in wealth distribution across the globe significantly widen? What is the role of human capital investment?Was the Industrial Revolution to blame? Or can the roots of economic inequality be traced back even further in human history? Oded Galor is a professor of economics at Brown University, the founder of the Unified Growth Theory, and author of the book, The Journey of Humanity: The Origins of Wealth and Inequality. His work covers the history of economic development throughout human history, as well as the consequences of that development – vast global inequality.Oded and Greg discuss the significant historical factors that have shaped wealth distribution across the globe, Oded's Unified Growth Theory, addressing the long-term impacts of population dynamics, and why diversity is a key but precise ingredient in economic development. *unSILOed Podcast is produced by University FM.*Show Links:Recommended Resources:MalthusianismGuest Profile:Faculty Profile at Brown UniversityProfessional WebsiteHis Work:The Journey of Humanity: The Origins of Wealth and InequalityUnified Growth TheoryDiscrete Dynamical SystemsInequality and Economic Development: The Modern Perspective Episode Quotes:The interplay of institutions, culture, and geography in inequality30:59: When I view institutions, I view them as a byproduct of the process of development. And this will be true for cultural elements as well. Naturally, at a certain point, there are certain externalities in societies that people cannot fully internalize, and the society is forming some cultural norms that allow individuals to coordinate and act based on cumulative knowledge and cumulative wisdom generated in the course of the history of this group over time. These cultural norms can feed into institutions. Institutions can cause some adaptations in cultural norms. But in terms of the hierarchy of factors, the way that I view the world is that, if we think about inequality today, it is affected by deep-rooted factors, institutions, and culture that are reinforcing one another. But, underlying institutions and culture are geographical elements and human diversity that affecting the nature of the institutions, the nature of cultural characteristics, and their interaction.Understanding inequality today requires tracing its roots to the past04:45: In order to understand the rules of inequality today, we have to develop theories that will enable us to link the present and the past. Namely, we have to focus on those initial conditions that created the precondition for economic development and ultimately created much of the inequality we see today.There is no universal policy that would fit all nations24:57: One of the main insights of “The Journey of Humanity” is that, in fact, there is no universal policy that would fit all nations. In fact, the design of policy will have to be reflective of the history of each nation, the geography of each nation, and the evolutionary processes that occur there and lead this society into its current position. Once we understand these processes, we can design policies that will foster economic development and basically target societies in a differential way.The role of diversity in economic development43:49: Diversity is an incredible force in the context of economic development. Based on our estimates, it accounts for about one-sixth of the variations in inequality across the globe today. And much of the variation in diversity, as we see it across the globe today, was determined very much in the distant past. They were determined due to the exodus of humans from Africa during a time when humans started to populate the planetary assessor.

**Podcast Show Notes: Jim's Take - Episode 139****Title:** Should There Be Billionaires? A Reflection on Wealth, Society, and Change**Episode Summary:**In this thought-provoking episode of *Jim's Take*, Jim explores the complex question: *Should there be billionaires?* Drawing inspiration from a bumper sticker he saw years ago, he reflects on capitalism, wealth inequality, and societal change. This isn't just a theoretical discussion—it's a deep dive into how unchecked capitalism, privatization, and societal expectations are reshaping our lives.**Key Topics Covered:**1. **The Origin of the Question:**    - How a bumper sticker sparked deep reflections during a run.    - The evolving relevance of the question in today's world.2. **Capitalism and Wealth Accumulation:**    - Arguments for and against the existence of billionaires.    - The balance between hard work, value creation, and societal responsibility.3. **Economic Inequality and Societal Impact:**    - The erosion of basic human rights like access to water, food, and healthcare.    - Real-life stories of healthcare denial and corporate profiteering.4. **Societal Unrest and Systemic Failures:**    - Why economic pressure and unmet needs fuel societal frustration.    - Reflections on historical and current examples of societal breakdown.5. **The Role of Government and Corporations:**    - How government and corporate responsibility intersect—or fail to.    - The need for systemic reform and collective accountability.6. **Personal Responsibility and Action:**    - Simple steps individuals can take in response to societal challenges.    - The importance of self-sufficiency, advocacy, and creating positive change.**Memorable Quotes:**- *“Unchecked capitalism erodes the foundational needs of society.”*  - *“What's enough profit? How do we recognize when we've done enough?”*  - *“We're humans—we need a lot of things, and we're not quite meeting that for people.”***Call to Action:**Have thoughts on the episode? Share your perspective on societal change and economic responsibility. What do you believe needs to change—and how can we, as individuals and communities, take action?**Connect with Us:**- Website: www.jimfrawley.com  - Social Media: @jimfrawleyny**Thank you for tuning in!**Join us next week for another deep dive into the issues shaping our world.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, host Stewart Alsop reconnects with Eric Fisher, one of the show's earliest guests. Their conversation weaves through profound topics like the evolution of AI, the potential consequences of large language models (LLMs), and how AI might reshape both spirituality and education. Eric shares reflections from his time at Facebook, offering behind-the-scenes insight into the creation of algorithmic feeds and how those decisions echo into today's world of AI-driven interactions. Together, Stewart and Eric explore the nature of human attention, the future of work, and the potential divide between tech-driven living and a return to nature. Their discussion raises essential questions about where humanity is headed in the face of exponential technological change and how people can retain their sense of agency and spirit along the way. If you want to learn more about Eric visit his website mindfulimprov.com.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Reunion00:44 Reflecting on Past Interviews01:18 Spiritual Understandings and AI01:32 The Dual Nature of AI02:43 The Evolution of Facebook's News Feed05:32 AI's Role in Future Technologies13:47 AI in Education and Synthetic Data16:58 The Future of AI and Society21:54 Spirituality and Technology27:58 Humanoid Robots: Beyond Sex Dolls28:28 The Role of Robots in Agriculture and Home29:07 Industrial Robots vs. Home Robots29:44 The Philosophy Behind Technological Advancements30:22 The Vision of the Future: Post-Steve Jobs Era31:17 The Impact of AI and Automation on Society32:55 Accelerationism vs. Degrowth: The Tech Debate40:41 Demographic Crisis and the Future of Humanity45:18 Economic Inequality and the Common Man46:39 The Evolution of Political Ideologies52:09 The Future of Work and Society54:14 Concluding Thoughts and Future DiscussionsKey Insights1. The Dual Nature of AI: Promise and PerilEric Fisher highlights the dual potential of AI as both a tool for human advancement and a source of unforeseen challenges. Drawing from his experience at Facebook, he explains how algorithmic feeds designed to increase engagement eventually led to widespread issues like polarization and misinformation. This echoes in today's world of LLMs (Large Language Models), where AI's utility as a tool for learning, troubleshooting, and content creation exists alongside the risk of biased or manipulative outputs. The key takeaway is that technology, like a rock, is neutral — its impact depends on how it is used and who is using it.2. The Evolution of Attention as a ResourceAttention has become a central currency in the modern economy, and Fisher points out that the concept of "attention economy" wasn't even part of public discourse a few decades ago. Today, with the rise of LLM-driven AI companions and algorithmic feeds, attention is being sliced and sold with increasing precision. This shift raises questions about how much of human autonomy is being traded away in favor of frictionless convenience. As AI becomes more adept at predicting and shaping user behavior, the concept of "free will" within an attention-driven economy becomes murkier.3. The Next Phase of Education: Self-Directed Learning with AI TutorsBoth Stewart Alsop and Eric Fisher recognize the potential for AI to revolutionize education. Instead of the traditional classroom model, self-directed learning with AI-driven tutors could allow for personalized, one-on-one learning experiences for every student. Fisher notes that tools like ChatGPT have already enabled him to troubleshoot complex home systems, like his geothermal cooling system, without needing to call a specialist. This self-sufficiency could be mirrored in education, where AI assistants offer instant, tailored guidance to students across a range of subjects.4. The Blurring of Reality: Personalized AI-Generated WorldsA provocative idea discussed in the episode is the possibility of AI-generated personalized realities. Through augmented reality (AR) glasses or VR headsets, individuals could project and experience personalized versions of reality. Fisher points out that, in many ways, people already live in "personalized mental realities" shaped by language, perception, and cultural narratives. AI could make this more literal, with each person living in a bespoke, algorithmically generated world. While this concept sounds thrilling, it also hints at a future where shared consensus reality — the "real world" — becomes more fragmented than ever.5. Economic Shifts: From Worker-Centric to Business-Centric SystemsTracing the legacy of figures like FDR and LBJ, Fisher reflects on how America shifted from a society that valued the working class to one that prioritizes business interests. While earlier eras emphasized worker rights, health care, and public welfare, today's economy is focused on empowering small businesses and startups. Everyone is now expected to be a "business of one," as independent creators, gig workers, and personal brands become the dominant paradigm. The result is a world where individual workers act like micro-businesses, managing their own healthcare, retirement, and financial stability — often with no safety net.6. The Threat of Decentralized AI and the Loss of TruthWith Meta and OpenAI releasing LLMs and synthetic AI models into the open-source community, Fisher expresses concern about the fragmentation of "truth." As more people train and deploy their own AI models, the risk of misinformation rises. Just as search engines can prioritize certain content over others, decentralized AI models may be subtly — or overtly — biased. This issue becomes even more concerning if companies start inserting ad-driven recommendations into AI responses, giving users the illusion of objectivity when, in fact, they're being guided toward a commercial end.7. The Coming Collapse and the Chance for RenewalThe episode touches on a cyclical view of history, where moments of collapse often lead to periods of rebirth. Fisher compares this to the aftermath of the bubonic plague, which killed half of Europe's population but led to the Renaissance and an era of cultural flourishing. He speculates that a similar phenomenon could play out today. Whether through demographic decline, AI-driven disruption, or a collapse of old economic models, humanity could experience a dramatic contraction. Paradoxically, such a collapse might bring about an "age of spaciousness" where fewer people, better technology, and renewed humanism create a richer and more thoughtful way of life.

Oh Oh Oh - The Contemporary Geo-Politics of a Christmas Carol The Black Spy Podcast, Season 18, Episode 0001 In keeping with the Christmas spirit the Black Spy Podcast team brings you an analysis of a classic piece of Christmas literature through the prism of contemporary events, so hold your Victorian horses and step inside this brilliant and entertaining Christmas podcast. Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," while set in Victorian England, offers profound insights into socio-economic disparities, moral responsibility, and the human capacity for change, themes that resonate powerfully in the context of contemporary geopolitics in 2024. The narrative revolves around Ebenezer Scrooge, a miser who embodies the era's capitalist excesses, and his transformative journey prompted by the visitations of three spirits. This tale can be viewed as an allegory for the moral imperatives facing today's global leaders, particularly in a world grappling with inequality, climate change, and the consequences of capitalism. Economic Inequality and Social Responsibility In "A Christmas Carol," Scrooge's initial indifference to the plight of the impoverished reflects a broader socio-economic divide that is alarmingly prevalent today. As of 2024, the world faces stark economic inequalities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the climate crisis, and geopolitical tensions. Wealth concentration among the elite has reached staggering levels, with a significant portion of the global population struggling to meet basic needs. The Ghost of Christmas Present reveals to Scrooge the harsh realities faced by the Cratchit family, particularly Tiny Tim, whose health and future are jeopardized by their poverty. This aspect of the story mirrors contemporary discussions around social safety nets and the need for governments to intervene in markets to ensure equitable access to resources, healthcare, and education. Just as Scrooge is called to acknowledge his moral responsibility to others, today's leaders are similarly challenged to address systemic inequalities and implement policies that foster social welfare. Environmental Concerns and Global Responsibility The spectre of climate change looms large in contemporary geopolitics, echoing the moral awakening experienced by Scrooge. The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and greed. In 2024, the planet faces unprecedented environmental challenges, with extreme weather events and biodiversity loss underscoring the urgent need for collective action. Many governments and organizations are grappling with the ethical implications of their environmental policies, much like Scrooge's eventual realization that his actions have far-reaching consequences. The Paris Agreement and subsequent climate accords represent attempts to foster global cooperation, yet the disparity in commitment levels among nations reflects the ongoing struggle between economic interests and moral imperatives. Scrooge's transformation symbolizes the potential for leaders to evolve from self-interest to a broader commitment to sustainability and stewardship. War, Peace, and Humanitarian Obligations The geopolitical landscape of 2024 is also marked by ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises, from the war in Ukraine to various regional disputes in the Middle East and Africa. The indifference of Scrooge to the suffering around him parallels the apathy of some global leaders toward humanitarian needs. In Dickens' narrative, the moral awakening of Scrooge leads him to philanthropy and community engagement, a lesson that resonates with the contemporary need for nations to prioritize diplomacy and humanitarian aid. As nations grapple with the consequences of war, including displacement and poverty, the call for empathy and action becomes increasingly urgent. Just as Scrooge's character is redeemed through acts of kindness and generosity, modern leaders are similarly tasked with recognizing their interconnectedness and the moral obligation to assist those in need, regardless of borders. Conclusion  In conclusion, "A Christmas Carol" serves as a timeless reflection on the human condition and the responsibilities we hold toward one another. Through the lens of 2024's geopolitical landscape, Dickens' narrative underscores the importance of addressing economic inequality, environmental degradation, and humanitarian crises. The lessons learned by Scrooge are as relevant today as they were in the 19th century, reminding us that true leadership requires compassion, accountability, and a commitment to the common good. As always, please don't be afraid to contact us and put any questions you might have to any of the Black Spy Podcast team concerning this or any other of our fascinating subjects. And, if you want to continue learning whilst being entertained, please don't forget to subscribe to the Black Spy Podcast for free, so you'll never miss another episode. To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Carlton King by utilising any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor To read Carlton's Autobiography: “Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent”

This episode serves as an enlightening exploration of insights gained from my travels and studies regarding the Black community. I often engage with the work of Thomas Sowell, a prominent intellectual who addresses topics such as liberal indoctrination, the significance of two-parent households, marriage, and the origins of the welfare system, among others. I encourage you to listen to the podcast and join the discussion in the comments section below for a more in-depth conversation.Donate To The Podcast | https://cash.app/$waveynuetronFollow Us On #Instagram | https://instagram.com/thetrevorjacksonpodcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=Tap In W/ The Family On #Twitter | https://twitter.com/trevorj865/status/1624799477323165697?s=46&t=cwguTTrEhwYeAaQMgOAY4wFollow The Group On #Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/groups/308646383559995/?ref=share_group_link#SnakeThaGreat | 10pm In #LosAngeles | Apple Music | https://music.apple.com/us/album/10pm-in-los-angeles-single/1654989802Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the copyright Act 1976. allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism. Comment. News. reporting. Teaching. Scholarship . and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copy status that might otherwise be infringing Non-profit. Educational or per Sonal use tips the balance in favor of fair use ...

Good Morning Liberty hosts Nate Thurston and Charles Chuck Thompson break down the dumbest events and reactions of the week. From analyzing post-election reactions, discussing FEMA discrimination, and revealing the mind-boggling butter recall, this episode covers a wide range of baffling topics. They also tackle the misgendering of Caitlyn Jenner, the so-called libertarianism in San Francisco, and much more, offering their unique libertarian perspective throughout. Tune in for a mixture of serious discussion and light-hearted banter! (03:03) Dumb Bleep #1: Biden and Trump Meeting (07:55) Dumb Bleep #2: Florida Sues FEMA (12:18) Dumb Bleep #3: Chuck Schumer's Pointless Post (13:39) Dumb Bleep #4: Misgendering Caitlyn Jenner (16:14) Dumb Bleep #5: Whoopi Goldberg's Sex Strike (19:58) Dumb Bleep #6: Reactions to Trump Transition (36:11) Informed Consent Discussion (36:20) Reactions to Trump's Cabinet Picks (36:41) Debate on Meritocracy and Racism (38:25) Fox News and Russian Asset Allegations (40:17) Elon Musk's Diplomatic Efforts (42:16) Critique of Expert Opinions (43:37) Kyle Kalinsky and Economic Inequality (49:20) Libertarianism and Drug Legalization (52:44) Twitter Exodus and Legal Changes (57:03) Parental Responsibility and Legal Consequences (01:02:14) Butter Recall and FDA Regulations

This is episode three Cited Podcast's new season, the Use & Abuse of Economic Expertise. This season tells stories of the political and scholarly battles behind the economic ideas that shape our world. For a full list of credits, and for the rest of the episodes, visit the series page. For much of the 20th century, few economists studied inequality. “Watching the study of inequality was like watching the grass grow,” is the way inequality scholar James K. Galbraith put it to us. Yet, the inequality studies grass is growing today–really, it's something of a lush jungle. Arguably, the return of inequality studies is biggest change that has happened in economics over the last decade or so. Why did it return? Just as importantly, how could it have possibly disappeared? On this episode, we survey the broad political and intellectual history of inequality studies in economics. First, economist Branko Milanovic, author of Visions of Inequality: From the French Revolution to the End of the Cold War, introduces us to a few of the reasons why inequality was marginalized, including the mathematization of the economic mainstream. In short, we sidelined the political in political economy. Then, political theorist Michael Thompson, author of The Politics of Inequality: A Political History of the Idea of Economic Inequality in America, introduces us to the work of Frank Knight and other market-friendly economists who provided ideological justification for widening inequality. Finally, inequality scholar Poornima Paidipaty, speaks to us about the return of inequality studies, particularly through the landmark work of Thomas Piketty. Yet, Paidipaty and her co-author Pedro Ramos Pinto highlight some of the limits of Picketty's vision in their article “Revisiting the “Great Levelling”: The limits of Piketty's Capital and Ideology for understanding the rise of late 20th century inequality.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

This is episode three Cited Podcast's new season, the Use & Abuse of Economic Expertise. This season tells stories of the political and scholarly battles behind the economic ideas that shape our world. For a full list of credits, and for the rest of the episodes, visit the series page. For much of the 20th century, few economists studied inequality. “Watching the study of inequality was like watching the grass grow,” is the way inequality scholar James K. Galbraith put it to us. Yet, the inequality studies grass is growing today–really, it's something of a lush jungle. Arguably, the return of inequality studies is biggest change that has happened in economics over the last decade or so. Why did it return? Just as importantly, how could it have possibly disappeared? On this episode, we survey the broad political and intellectual history of inequality studies in economics. First, economist Branko Milanovic, author of Visions of Inequality: From the French Revolution to the End of the Cold War, introduces us to a few of the reasons why inequality was marginalized, including the mathematization of the economic mainstream. In short, we sidelined the political in political economy. Then, political theorist Michael Thompson, author of The Politics of Inequality: A Political History of the Idea of Economic Inequality in America, introduces us to the work of Frank Knight and other market-friendly economists who provided ideological justification for widening inequality. Finally, inequality scholar Poornima Paidipaty, speaks to us about the return of inequality studies, particularly through the landmark work of Thomas Piketty. Yet, Paidipaty and her co-author Pedro Ramos Pinto highlight some of the limits of Picketty's vision in their article “Revisiting the “Great Levelling”: The limits of Piketty's Capital and Ideology for understanding the rise of late 20th century inequality.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Tune in to hear:Get a better sense of the size and scope of the racial wealth gap problem in the US.Should financial advisors play a role in addressing these inequalities? Also, do historical factors, such as systemic discrimination and redlining, largely to blame for the genesis of this disparity?What sort of systemic inequities and injustices are we up against today and what can we do to combat these?What cultural differences, and attitudes, towards money, risk and investing should non-black practitioners be aware of when working with black clientele?What can we do as an industry to win some trust back and will part of that be through education and outreach?Does Adam see tech as a potential equalizer or exacerbator of the racial wealth gap?How can we best meet each client where they are at, as individuals?Citations17 cents on the dollarInheritance likelihood and magnitudeBlack wealth holdings228 YearsLinksAdam Tolliver on LinkedInAdam Tolliver on YoutubeArtisan Financial StrategiesThe Hidden Cost of Being African AmericanThe Black Tax: The Cost of Being Black in AmericaConnect with UsMeet Dr. Daniel CrosbyCheck Out All of Orion's PodcastsPower Your Growth with Orion The Advisor Academy is Orion's free, continuing education platform for advisors where you can get CE credits on the go. To sign up for the platform, click here.Compliance Code: 2356-OAS-9/13/2024

“There is a tremendous tension between healthy democracy and deep economic inequalities. I don't think that, in the long run, democracies can survive in a healthy way unless we address the problem of economic inequalities. If we have individuals who are living day to day, on the one hand, and we have other individuals who are billionaires in our societies, on the other hand, it will be very difficult for us to have a genuine democracy.”Arash Abizadeh is the R.B. Angus Professor of Political Science at McGill University. His research has focused on democratic theory, including topics such as immigration and border control. Abizadeh also specializes in 17th and 18th century philosophy and has recently published the book Hobbes and the Two Faces of Ethics. He is currently working on a book about social and political power and is the Associate Editor of Free & Equal: a Journal of Ethics and Public Affairs.https://abizadeh.wixsite.com/arashwww.cambridge.org/core/books/hobbes-and-the-two-faces-of-ethics/B565348CE9B53945F4F962784A5842C2https://freeandequaljournal.orgwww.creativeprocess.infowww.oneplanetpodcast.orgIG www.instagram.com/creativeprocesspodcast

Professor of Political Science · McGill University Author of Hobbes and the Two Faces of Ethics · Assoc. Editor · Free & Equal There is a tremendous tension between healthy democracy and deep economic inequalities. I don't think that, in the long run, democracies can survive in a healthy way unless we address the problem of economic inequalities. If we have individuals who are living day to day, on the one hand, and we have other individuals who are billionaires in our societies, on the other hand, it will be very difficult for us to have a genuine democracy.

On this week's Economic Update, Professor Richard Wolff discusses Kate Pickett's and Richard Wilkinson's best-selling study in the book "The Spirit Level" (2009), showing how economic inequality correlates with most of the major social problems of our time.  We will juxtapose their latest paper "The Spirit Level at 15: The Enduring Impact of Inequality" Which details how economic inequality has only gotten worse since the past fifteen years, despite government laws and programs aimed to "reduce" inequality.  Wilkinson and Pickett show how inequality leads to severe social ills, divisions, and disintegration. What we need is to face that it is capitalism that generates the inequality that generates the hostilities and social tensions intruding upon and damaging our lives." Important reading "The Spirit Level at 15: The Enduring Impact of Inequality: https://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/215026/1/The_Spirit_Level_at_15_2024_FINAL.pdf    The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a point to provide the show free of ads and rely on viewer support to continue doing so. You can support our work by joining our Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwork Or you can go to our website: https://www.democracyatwork.info/donate   Every donation counts and helps us provide a larger audience with the information they need to better understand the events around the world they can't get anywhere else. We want to thank our devoted community of supporters who help make this show and others we produce possible each week. We kindly ask you to also support the work we do by encouraging others to subscribe to our YouTube channel and website: www.democracyatwork.info

When the streets of Britain erupted into chaos, it wasn't just a moment of unrest—it was an earthquake, shaking the very foundations of society and exposing deep, underlying fractures. As the nation grapples with these turbulent times, understanding the forces that brought us here is crucial. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the political, social, and economic factors fuelling this unrest, offering a clear-eyed look at the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.To help us navigate this complex landscape, we're joined by Jo Tanner, a distinguished political strategist with over 25 years of experience. Tanner, who has provided counsel to key figures in UK politics, including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, offers a nuanced understanding of the dynamics at play.With a career spanning journalism and political communications, Tanner brings a unique perspective on the interplay between media, politics, and public sentiment. In this episode, we dive into the Labour Party's recent landslide victory, the challenges they face in a fractured political environment, and the broader societal issues that have fuelled the recent unrest.Timestamps: 00:00 | Introductions01:41 | Introducing Jo Tanner02:10 | Labour's Sweeping Victory02:38 | Challenges Facing the New Government02:48 | Jo Tanner's Background07:59 | Economic Inequality and Redistribution of Wealth08:32 | Health Service Crisis14:00 | Global Political Landscape17:37 | Broken Britain and Global Investment Challenges21:03 | Prison System and Reforms23:16 | The Importance of Prevention24:20 | Addressing Social Issues in the Northeast25:40 | Community Engagement and Government Responsibility27:23 | Challenges in Political Narratives30:28 | Long-Term Solutions and Building Trust38:47 | The Role of Opposition and Cross-Party Collaboration44:10 | The Power of Multiculturalism and Unity47:30 | Final Thoughts and TakeawaysChatting to Jo was an absolute pleasure, and as we peel back the layers of Britain's current unrest, this conversation not only uncovers the complex interplay of political, social, and economic forces at work but also offers a roadmap for navigating these turbulent times. Tanner's insights illuminate the pressing need for systemic change, emphasising the importance of addressing inequality, strengthening community bonds, and fostering collaborative governance.This episode is a call to action for all of us—whether you're engaged in political discourse, working within communities, or simply seeking to understand the forces shaping our world today. It's a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Britain and a crucial listen for anyone invested in the future of this nation.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now to stay informed on the issues that matter.Host: Peter BellGuest: Jo TannerProduced by: Purpose Made, dedicated to guiding leaders through seas of change. Join our tribe and lets grow together https://plus.acast.com/s/purpose-made-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.