Yasha Levine

Mike Benz and Scott discuss censorship threats, internet control by the government, exploitation under the guise of liberty, social media influence on global perception, News Guard's role in censorship, technical aspects of online censorship, and analysis of former President's impact on free speech advocacy.

Investigative journalist Yasha Levine and filmmaker Rowan Wernham discuss their upcoming documentary 'Pistachio Wars' exposing wealthy farmers controlling California's water. They delve into the impact of the Resnick couple's business ventures on agriculture, environmental harm, and unethical practices in the industry. The podcast explores conspiracy theories, agricultural power dynamics, and the Resnicks' influence on California's landscape.

Yasha Levine, an investigative journalist and author of Surveillance Valley, delves into the internet's hidden military origins, tracing its roots back to the Vietnam War as a surveillance tool for the U.S. He discusses how this initial purpose has influenced today’s massive data collection practices. Levine highlights the historical awareness among early internet users regarding its implications for privacy and state control. The conversation also addresses the relationship between technology companies and government, examining the internet's evolution from a means for liberation to a potential threat.

Marianne Williamson discusses her campaign and domestic/foreign politics. Lev Golinkin, Mark Ames, & Yasha Levine talk about Canada's Ukrainian Nazis. Topics include climate emergency, job creation in renewable energy, LGBTQ rights during the AIDS crisis, and the need for a Department of Peace. Also discussed are a monument to the Ukrainian SS division and concerns raised by Jewish organizations.

Yasha Levine, a journalist focused on military and internet intersections, shares insights from his book. He discusses the military origins of the internet and its evolution from ARPANET to widespread civilian use. Levine addresses the complexities of surveillance, encryption challenges, and the ethical implications of cybernetics. He also highlights IBM's troubling history with technology during the Holocaust, the cultural impacts of counterculture movements, and critiques of privacy technologies. The conversation reveals how technology's roles often reflect societal power dynamics.