Howard Zyn Presents: a People’s Cigstory of the United States feat. Matt Bors and Ben Clarkson
Sep 24, 2024
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Matt Bors, a political cartoonist, and Ben Clarkson, an animator focusing on right-wing themes, dive into the quirky world of AI and right-wing animation. They dissect the absurdities of UK smoking policies and the graphic health warnings on cigarettes. The duo humorously critiques influencer culture and life in Neom, while exploring the pitfalls of contemporary consumerism. They also highlight the decline of creative quality in media and the economics behind animated propaganda, all while teasing their upcoming projects and new book 'Justice Warriors 2'!
The podcast highlights the alarming disconnect between professionals' public expertise and their personal conspiracy theories regarding health issues.
Discussion surrounding Tucker Carlson's promotion of Zinn illuminates the bizarre lengths to which tobacco marketing has evolved amidst shifting societal views.
The scrutiny over UK politicians accepting gifts underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability in the intertwining realms of politics and corporate interests.
Deep dives
Dentist's Unconventional Views
The dentist's surprising anti-vaccine stance is highlighted through a humorous interaction where he promotes his dental services on social media. His eagerness to post before-and-after photos of a patient's smile reveals a disconnect, as he also shares conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and 5G. This juxtaposition of professional skill and personal beliefs prompts reflection on the potential implications of such viewpoints in the medical field. The episode underscores a growing concern about professionals in trusted positions holding and disseminating questionable beliefs.
The Cultural Landscape of Zinn and Alps
The podcast discusses Zinn, a type of tobacco pouch, and contrasts it with the notion of 'Alp' as a male-centric counterpart. Tucker Carlson's promotion of Zinn as a productivity enhancer illustrates the absurd lengths individuals go to market these products. The conversation touches on Carlson's fall from corporate grace and his current ventures, emphasizing the oddities of modern tobacco marketing. This discussion reflects broader societal attitudes toward nicotine consumption and its changing demographics.
UK Political Bribery and Public Perception
A scandal unfolds as UK politicians, including Education Secretary Bridgette Phillipsson, face scrutiny for accepting gifts, like Taylor Swift concert tickets, from wealthy donors. The episode critiques the absurdity of claiming innocence by arguing that the gifts were merely personal favors for their children. This situation sheds light on the growing resentment among the public regarding the intertwining of politics and corporate interests. The discussion emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
Larry Ellison's AI Surveillance Vision
Larry Ellison's earnings call reveals a chilling vision for the future of policing, where AI is employed to monitor and analyze police behavior through constant surveillance. The use of drones for law enforcement high-speed chases represents a radical shift in policing strategies, raising questions about privacy and civil rights. Ellison's claim that AI will ensure citizens behave at all times hints at a disturbing reality of increased governmental control. This aligns with wider concerns about the implications of AI technology in everyday life.
Neom: A Social Experiment in Saudi Arabia
The concept of Neom, a future city in Saudi Arabia, is portrayed as an adult daycare designed for expatriates, particularly white South Africans and others. Vlogs featuring expats depict mundane daily routines, attempting to make life in Neom appear glamorous, yet revealing an underlying monotony and surveillance. The podcast critiques the fantasy of a luxurious utopia, noting that the reality is a stark contrast. This exploration serves as a commentary on the marketing of such developments while ignoring the broader social issues at play.
Matt Bors and Ben Clarkson are back on the pod to talk about A.I. and right wing animation. Also, Neom influencers, Labour MP’s loving bribes, and Tucker Carlson’s come to Jesus moment that Zyns… are soy.
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