5 chapters across the catalog
The economic crisis in Spain is examined, specifically a unique law where citizens remain liable for mortgage debt even after bank repossession. Protests in Madrid and the use of rubber bullets by police are discussed in the context of massive bank bailouts.
Media Mind Control, Sex and the City Distraction
Dvorak analyzes a scene in The Newsroom where serious topics like London austerity riots and Mitch McConnell are rapidly followed by a discussion of Sex and the City. He argues this is a sophisticated propaganda technique designed to make the brain more receptive to messaging by pivoting to familiar pop culture.
Greek Budget Cuts, Anti-Austerity Activists, 1973 Uprising
The new Greek unity government under Prime Minister Lucas Papademos presented a 2012 budget aiming to cut the national deficit to 5.4% of GDP. Protests by "anti-austerity activists" in Athens coincided with the anniversary of the 1973 student uprising against the military dictatorship. Clashes between youths and police occurred shortly after the government won a parliamentary vote of confidence.
Riots broke out in Tottenham, London, following the police shooting of a 29-year-old man. The unrest involved arson and Molotov cocktails, which the hosts predict will eventually be blamed on economic austerity measures. They also discuss the media's negative portrayal of the American Tea Party movement.
Massive anti-austerity protests and riots break out across Europe, including Spain, France, and Greece, as citizens protest unemployment and public sector cuts. European finance ministers meet for seven hours to negotiate a second bailout for Greece, which the hosts describe as a transfer of wealth from taxpayers to commercial banks.
