Taylor Lorenz’s Power User

Albert Fox Cahn, founder of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.), dives deep into the alarming rise of facial recognition technology in everyday life. He sheds light on how landlords are using these systems to surveil tenants, raising serious privacy concerns. Cahn also discusses the implications of child safety laws that exacerbate surveillance and the need for public advocacy. The conversation emphasizes building tech that prioritizes people over profit and questions the balance between security and civil liberties.

Jaisen Freeman, CEO and co-founder of Four Loko, shares the wild journey of one of America's most iconic beverages. He reveals how the drink's unique blend of alcohol and caffeine skyrocketed to fame through early internet culture marketing. Jaisen discusses the brand's encounters with government crackdowns and public backlash, and how they turned controversy into a thriving business. He also explores Four Loko's evolution to stay relevant with Gen Z, maintaining its authenticity while innovating for the future.

YouTube's new automatic age verification system requires users to submit government IDs or biometric scans, igniting privacy concerns. This controversial move sets a worrying precedent for invasive identity checks in online spaces. There's a strong focus on how this policy could restrict access to vital educational and controversial content, particularly for young users and marginalized communities. The discussion warns of a future where anonymity is eroded, impacting informed citizenship and freedom of expression.

In this engaging discussion, music critic Anthony Fantano offers his insights into the disappearance of the 'song of the summer' in 2023. He explores how the rise of social media and personalization has transformed music consumption, leading to a fragmented musical landscape. Fantano traces the history of summer anthems and examines why this year lacks a unifying track. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by streaming services and cultural shifts that may hinder artists from creating resonant summer hits.

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.