Taylor Lorenz’s Power User

In this engaging discussion, journalist Kat Tenbarge, who investigates misogyny and the internet, dives into Lil Tay's explosive launch of her OnlyFans account shortly after turning 18. She unpacks the backlash from both sides of the political spectrum, revealing how the uproar is weaponized to silence free speech and threaten civil liberties. Kat also critiques the exploitation of young female influencers, the hypocrisy surrounding their choices, and the consequences of new legislation on marginalized communities, particularly in the discussion on online censorship.

Adam Aleksic, an etymologist and author of Algospeak, explores the fascinating ways AI, especially ChatGPT, is reshaping our language and communication. He highlights research showing a 'feedback loop' where AI influences our speech patterns. Aleksic discusses the rise of 'avoidance speech' and the trend of 'slop communication,' prompting a quest for authenticity in expression. The conversation dives into the balance between technological aid and personal creativity, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas in language shaped by AI.

The UK's Online Safety Act has sparked controversy, leading to significant censorship of websites, forums, and journalism. While intended to protect children, it inadvertently blocks access to vital news and health information, labeling it as harmful. The discussion highlights serious implications for free speech and privacy, especially with age verification requirements that could pave the way for similar legislation in other countries. The hosts urge listeners to consider the consequences and take action to protect their online rights.

Chiara Eisner, an investigative reporter at NPR, dives into the critical role of the internet in public health communication. She discusses how the CDC's drastic shifts in communication strategy, particularly under political changes, have led to a blackout on vital information. The conversation highlights the chaos within the agency, including confusion among employees and the consequences for public health during crises. Eisner emphasizes the need for credible journalism in these challenging times, advocating for transparency amidst declining institutional support.

Dive into the shadowy world of data brokers and surveillance capitalism. Discover how this industry evolved from early government tracking to today's invasive digital monitoring. Learn how corporations can predict personal events before you do, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding data collection. Explore the rise of targeted advertising and its privacy implications amidst growing concerns. Uncover the consequences of aggressive data harvesting practices and the increasing power of ad tech firms. This journey reveals how our lives are intricately profiled without our consent.

Delve into the alarming growth of government surveillance in the U.S. as agencies like ICE and DHS exploit personal data for tracking. Discover how personal information—ranging from tax filings to medical records—is used to target innocent individuals. Explore the bipartisan support for invasive surveillance tactics and the ethical dilemmas they pose. Learn about the potential abuses of data collection, like wrongful deportations, and the serious implications for civil liberties if these practices go unchecked.

Jason Koebler, a writer from 404 Media, joins to dissect the disturbing rise of doxing and the surveillance-entertainment economy. They discuss a viral incident involving a cheating couple at a Coldplay concert, showcasing how social media rallying can turn into invasive scrutiny. The conversation explores the ethical dilemmas of crowdsourced surveillance and the erosion of privacy, especially impacting marginalized communities. They also examine the intersection of clickbait culture and open-source intelligence, revealing the dark implications of viral content in our digital age.

Kate Ruane, Director of the Free Expression Project at the Center for Democracy and Technology, sheds light on the alarming NO FAKES Act. She discusses how this proposed legislation, while claiming to protect identities from deepfakes, could actually lead to harmful censorship and erode privacy. The bill's implications for journalists, artists, and free expression are explored, emphasizing the need for clear laws that truly protect individuals rather than empower corporations. Ruane champions the fight for genuine free speech amidst rising tech regulations.

Caroline Kwan, a Twitch streamer known for her insights on pop culture and politics, joins Kat Tenbarge, an independent journalist focused on online culture, to dissect the implications of Sean "Diddy" Combs' recent acquittal on serious charges. They discuss how celebrity trials can affect sociopolitical narratives and the trivialization of serious accusations in meme culture. The conversation highlights the systemic misogyny that influences public perception, the backlash against the #MeToo movement, and the challenges women face in the realm of content creation.

Meredith Rose, Senior Policy Counsel at Public Knowledge, dives deep into the complex intersection of copyright law and free speech. She highlights how powerful creators are using copyright claims to silence smaller voices. The discussion covers the historical context of the DMCA and its implications, the challenges of navigating fair use in reaction videos, and the dynamics of fan communities. Rose emphasizes the need for reform to protect against spurious lawsuits that threaten expression in today’s digital landscape.