Peoples & Things

Peoples & Things host, Lee Vinsel, talks with Lauren Bridges, Assistant Professor of Media Studies at the University of Virginia, about her work on the political, economic, and environmental politics of big data infrastructures. They focus on some of Bridges’ work on the disconnect between the promises made to localities around digital transformation and the realities of data center power demands and other material factors. They also discuss Bridges’ other projects, including “Geographies of Digital Wasting,” a global collaborative project, which Bridges was co-PI on, tracing the global flows and practices of digital wasting throughout the tech supply chain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy Braddock, an Associate Professor at Cornell and author of "Firesign: The Electromagnetic History of Everything as Told on Nine Comedy Albums," dives deep into the impact of Firesign Theatre. He discusses their innovative use of media, the evolution of radio drama, and how humor reflects societal values. Braddock connects the dots between media technologies and identity, emphasizing how the surrealistic comedy group challenged norms and enriched cultural narratives. Explore his insights into sound, creativity, and the enduring legacy of this unique art form!

Jeffrey Lee Funk, a retired professor and author of "Unicorns, Hype, and Bubbles," shares his expertise on spotting and navigating technology investment bubbles. He highlights how exaggerated hype leads to unsustainable startup valuations, especially in the realm of generative AI. The conversation critiques the myth of instant tech success and discusses the impact of easy money on market dynamics. Funk emphasizes the need for critical thinking and a structured approach to innovation amidst the complexities of modern tech culture.

In this engaging conversation, Eleni Kalantidou, Assistant Professor at the Queensland College of Art and Design, shares insights from her work on sustainable repair practices. She discusses the urgent need for design repair in the face of climate change and emphasizes the role of repair cultures in community resilience. Eleni also highlights innovative education models and community initiatives like men's sheds that promote mentorship and skill exchange. Listeners will be inspired by her vision for a future where design and repair foster holistic well-being.

Aure Schrock, an interdisciplinary technology scholar and editor at Indelible Voice, dives into the evolution of Code for America. The conversation reveals how the organization shifted from a tech-forward vision to providing digital consulting services for local governments. Schrock discusses challenges in integrating technology, the significance of empathetic civic engagement, and the grassroots efforts to enhance community participation. Their insights shed light on the intricate relationship between technology and local politics, all while emphasizing the importance of effective communication and academic writing.

Join Paula Bialski, a digital sociology expert, and Gabriella Coleman, a Harvard anthropology professor, as they dive into the multifaceted world of hacker cultures. They unveil how hacker identities—like black hat and white hat—have evolved and impacted cybersecurity. There's a fascinating discussion on the emotional backlash against poorly written code and the ethics within the hacking community. Plus, hear about the intriguing concept of Critical Mold Studies and its unexpected ties to tech! A compelling exploration of innovation, ethics, and community dynamics.

Joe Forte, a Media Projects Manager with Virginia Tech Publishing, joins Marshall Poe, founder of the New Books Network and former history professor. They discuss the evolution of academic communication through podcasting, emphasizing accessibility and the shift from traditional media to audio formats. Poe shares insights on building a sustainable podcast network and the role of libraries in preserving digital content. The conversation also tackles the challenges facing the industry, including monetization and maintaining diverse voices in the podcasting landscape.

Michael Sacasas, author of The Convivial Society Substack and Executive Director of the Christian Studies Center of Gainesville, dives deep into the philosophical implications of technology on human identity. He challenges binary views of technology as simply good or bad, advocating for a nuanced understanding prioritizing human needs. Sacasas contrasts past internet optimism with today's realities, scrutinizes the moral dimensions of technological advancements, and highlights the importance of personal judgment and cultural values in navigating the digital age.

In this engaging discussion, Joshua Brinkman, an Assistant Teaching Professor at North Carolina State University and author of a new book on American farming culture, delves into the surprising relationship between farmers and technology. He challenges the stereotype of farmers as anti-tech, revealing their pride in innovation. Brinkman also explores how cultural perceptions, like the significance of pickup trucks and the evolving roles of women in agriculture, shape identity. Plus, he connects his academic insights to his passion for jazz, highlighting music's cultural resonance.

Matt Beane, an Assistant Professor of Technology Management at UC Santa Barbara and author of "The Skill Code," dives into the intersection of human abilities and intelligent machines. He discusses how automation impacts skill development and emphasizes the potential risks in mentor-mentee relationships. Beane explores innovative training systems and the nuances of learning in tech-driven workplaces, advocating for collaboration and community engagement to navigate these changes. His insights underline the importance of preserving human skills in an era of growing automation.