The podcast discusses the shocking defamation verdict against Mark Steyn and Rand Simberg, questions the existence of free speech in liberal American cities, and highlights negative aspects of Michael Mann's character. It also mentions the possibility of an appeal and teases future projects.
The jury found Mark Steyn and Rand Simberg liable for defamation, highlighting concerns about free speech in liberal American cities.
Throughout the trial, problematic actions by Michael Mann were revealed, raising doubts about the impartiality of the jury and the potential biases in climate change debates.
Deep dives
Jury awarded compensatory and punitive damages to Michael Mann
The jury found two statements made by Rand Simberg and two statements made by Mark Stein to be defamatory towards Michael Mann. Rand Simberg's statements compared Mann to Jerry Sandusky, the convicted child molester, alleging misconduct in climate science. Mark Stein repeated Simberg's statement but qualified it. The jury awarded Michael Mann $1 compensatory damages against Rand Simberg and $1,000 punitive damages. For Mark Stein, the jury awarded $1 compensatory damage and $1 million punitive damage. Many observers found the verdict to be puzzling and inconsistent given the lack of evidence presented.
Issues raised during the trial and doubts about the jury's decision
Throughout the trial, several issues were raised that suggested actions by Michael Mann that were deemed problematic. Mann was accused of calling Steve McIntyre derogatory names, committing a gross sexual smear against a former colleague, and deleting emails connected to his work. The supposed independent investigation into Mann's misconduct at Penn State was believed to be compromised by the interference of the university president. Despite these revelations, the jury seemed to ignore the evidence and awarded punitive damages against Mark Stein. Many found the verdict to be illogical and felt it raised concerns about freedom of speech and the impartiality of juries.
Plans for appeal and future implications
Given the controversial jury decision, Mark Stein is expected to appeal the verdict. The case raises important issues surrounding free speech and the appropriateness of the punitive damages awarded. The trial also highlighted the challenges faced when presenting evidence and the potential biases of juries. The outcome of the appeal and the precedent it sets will be closely watched by legal experts and those concerned about the implications for public discourse and climate change debates.
The verdict is in, and it’s a shocker. We break down the jury’s shocking decision to:
Find Mark Steyn and Rand Simberg liable for defamation
Decide the defendants knew their statements were false
Punish Mark more than Rand for mostly repeating Rand’s words with some context
We have an exclusive comment from Mark Steyn on how he feels, and his next steps. The fight is not over. And, we ask if Free Speech still exists in liberal American cities. Or are there protected people and ideas that are just Too Big To Question?
But let’s not forget what we learned about Michael Mann during these four weeks of trial, like those emails about “human filth” colleagues and the female scientist he falsely claimed slept her way to the top. We also learned how the independent investigation into his scientific malfeasance was nobbled at the last moment. Will the Streisand Effect work against Mann? We intend to keep working to let the public know about the emails and documents that were presented in court but that the mainstream media have been ignoring.
Thanks for coming on this ride with us. This story is not over.
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