Plain English with Derek Thompson

Bestselling author Steven Johnson, known for his insights on technology and AI, dives into the thrilling yet daunting landscape of artificial intelligence. He discusses how AI technologies like GPT-3 are revolutionizing creativity while raising ethical concerns, from plagiarism to job displacement. Johnson also explores AI's role in transforming drug discovery and emphasizes the need for responsible use and regulation. Buckle up for a captivating journey through the paradoxes of AI and its profound implications for our future.

Mary Ziegler, a visiting professor at Harvard and an expert on abortion history, teams up with Karissa Haugeberg, a Tulane professor, to unpack the complex 300-year narrative of abortion in America. They discuss how early abortion practices were viewed differently and the significant shifts leading to Roe v. Wade. The conversation highlights the political reshaping of abortion rights, especially within the Republican Party, and what the future may hold for reproductive rights post-Roe. It's a compelling blend of history and current implications.

Margot Sanger-Katz, a healthcare and politics correspondent for The New York Times, and Melissa Murray, a law professor specializing in reproductive rights, delve into the potential fallout from the Supreme Court's likely overturning of Roe v. Wade. They discuss how this could alter state abortion laws, affecting clinic access across the country. The rise of online abortion pills is highlighted as a significant factor in navigating the new landscape, while also exploring the implications of the leaked draft and the political repercussions following these drastic changes.

Morgan Housel, a partner at Collaborative Fund and author of 'The Psychology of Money', dives deep into the troubled waters of tech stocks and the looming recession. He unpacks the factors driving recent market volatility and how investor sentiment is shifting from high-risk tech investments to more stable options. The discussion also touches on the complexities of consumer sentiment amid economic growth and inflation, along with the hot topic of student debt cancellation, scrutinizing its future implications and political motivations.

David Berri, an economist at Southern Utah University, unpacks the baffling world of predicting NFL quarterbacks. He argues that scouts often miss the mark, revealing the chaos behind hiring decisions. The conversation delves into why even talented players, like Tom Brady, can be overlooked due to context and team dynamics. Berri challenges traditional metrics, stressing that success relies more on collective effort than just individual talent. Prepare for a deep dive into the unpredictability of talent evaluation in football!

What can save Netflix? Who killed CNN+? What the hell is going on between Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis? It's a big media hellscape roundup. Rich Greenfield, general partner at LightShed Ventures, forecasts a rocky future for streaming. Nick Papantonis, a reporter for WFTV in Orlando, explains that Florida's war against Disney might have some surprising collateral damage.Host: Derek ThompsonGuests: Rich Greenfield and Nick PapantonisProducer: Devon Manze Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charlie Warzel, author of the Galaxy Brain newsletter at The Atlantic, dives into the seismic shift following Elon Musk’s $44 billion acquisition of Twitter. The talk explores potential changes to content moderation and the advertising landscape, raising questions on free speech and political implications. Warzel examines the controversial public reactions and comparisons to Donald Trump, alongside the possible return of Trump to the platform. Ultimately, they discuss how Musk's approach could reshape media dynamics and influence user experience in a new Twitter era.

Jonathan Haidt, an NYU social psychologist and author, dives into the alarming rise in teenage sadness and anxiety, revealing that over 40% of high school students report persistent feelings of despair. He discusses the detrimental effects of social media, comparing its impacts on mental health to alcohol. Haidt emphasizes the challenges of modern parenting, advocating for the concept of 'anti-fragility' to foster resilience in children. The conversation explores how a balance of support and exposure to challenges is vital for healthy emotional development.

Kristen Soltis Anderson, a Republican pollster and author of "The Selfie Vote," dives into the alarming decline of Joe Biden's approval among younger voters, plummeting by 19 points since his inauguration. She discusses the disconnect between youth expectations and political realities, touching on why traditional parties may not resonate with them. The conversation also reveals how conservatives perceive Trump's influence and explores the struggles of modern masculinity amid cultural shifts, highlighting feelings of social alienation.

Dan Wang, a Chinese writer and tech analyst, reveals the shocking realities of Shanghai's harsh COVID lockdown. He describes the extreme restrictions that confine residents to their homes and separate families, leading to desperate food shortages. The discussion addresses the growing public dissent against the Chinese government's zero-COVID policy and its implications for future governance. Wang also explores the shift in Shanghai’s identity from a vibrant city to one symbolizing repression, amidst fears of rising unrest.