Sirens: A Bombshell production AI Skills, Appropriations, Armed Conflict Law
Sep 17, 2025
The discussion dives into the controversial renaming of the Department of Defense and its implications. A critical look at the US appropriations process reveals chaos amidst political dysfunction. The brutal reality of political violence is explored, particularly concerning recent attacks and social media’s role in radicalization. On international affairs, the legality of military strikes in Venezuela and Qatar raises eyebrows. Finally, a book review of R.F. Kuang's 'Catabasis' highlights its dark themes and rich worldbuilding.
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Korean Workers ICE Raid Sparked Diplomatic Fallout
- Erin Simpson described an ICE raid in Georgia that arrested over 300 Korean workers at Hyundai and LG factories, causing a diplomatic stir.
- Those workers were later released and flown back to Korea, showing the incident's international fallout.
AI Policy Risks Becoming Theater
- Radha Iyengar-Plum noted the administration pushed AI skills funding while cutting broader education grants, creating mixed signals.
- She called it "AI theater" because the funding cuts undercut claims of building an AI-ready workforce.
Renaming DOD Signals Troubling Posture
- The hosts mocked renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War as performative, costly, and historically inaccurate.
- They argued the rename signals a troubling appetite for conflict rather than deterrence.
