Exploring the aftermath of the Fukushima disaster, challenges in rebuilding communities and trust. The legacy of Rupert Murdoch's media empire and the succession plan within his family. Reflecting on the historical marketing strategies of the world's first fitness influencer.
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Quick takeaways
Challenges persist in rebuilding trust and communities post-Fukushima incident.
The Murdoch empire's future hinges on business growth and political influence leveraging.
Deep dives
Impact of the Fukushima disaster on Japan: 10 years later
The devastating earthquake and resulting tsunami that struck Japan on March 11, 2011, had profound effects on the country. The disaster led to the meltdown of three reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, causing widespread radiation and leaving lasting psychological scars. The decommissioning process for the reactors is ongoing, and the safe disposal of contaminated water remains a pressing issue. While the physical infrastructure has been rebuilt to some extent, the psychological and societal challenges continue as communities struggle to recover and attract residents back to the affected areas. The incident also eroded trust in authorities and triggered a shift in public opinion towards nuclear energy.
The Media Empire of Rupert Murdoch: Changes and Succession
Rupert Murdoch, the media mogul, celebrates his 90th birthday. Over the past decade, his empire has gone through significant changes, including the split of assets into 21st Century Fox and News Corp, and the subsequent sale of most TV and film assets to Disney. The eldest son, Lachlan Murdoch, is expected to take over the reins of the empire, with differing opinions among siblings regarding the direction of the businesses. While the Fox Corporation faces challenges in the cable TV industry, Fox News continues to be a dominant force despite legal troubles and shifts in public opinion. News Corp's newspapers, although experiencing decline, have capitalized on digital revenue through content deals. The future of the Murdoch empire lies not only in economic growth but also in leveraging its political influence.
Eugene Sandow: The First Fitness Influencer
Eugene Sandow, a renowned strongman and fitness influencer in the late 19th century, revolutionized the fitness industry through marketing and technological advancements. Sandow's success stemmed from tapping into Victorian Britain's growing interest in health and fitness, addressing societal anxieties about physical strength and well-being. He leveraged his fame to build a fitness empire, offering gym memberships, publishing books and endorsements, and using photography and early films to promote his brand. Sandow's marketing strategies laid the foundation for future fitness influencers, demonstrating the enduring public fascination with health and fitness.
The cleanup effort in and around the melted-down power plant is still progressing, but rebuilding communities—and, crucially, trust—is proving far more difficult. As Rupert Murdoch turns 90 we look at how his businesses are faring, and how they are likely to be run by his heirs. And the Victorian strongman who was arguably the world’s first fitness influencer. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer
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