7 chapters across the catalog
Media mogul Barry Diller expressed his disdain for the current AI hype, arguing that "fair use" laws must be redefined to prevent AI companies from "sucking up" copyrighted content without payment. Diller, representing Dotdash Meredith, stated that publishers are seeking standing to sue AI developers for appropriation. He dismissed the current state of AI as "research" and noted that no one is yet making significant revenue from the technology.
The Daily Beast is hosting a "Race to Save the World" event in partnership with Pfizer, featuring speakers like Ron Klain. Critics point to this as an example of the blurring lines between news organizations and corporate sponsors. The publication is owned by Barry Diller's IAC, which is described as a "commercial whore" for its advertising practices.
Media Narratives, Retrumplicans, Big Lie Terminology
Media outlets are accused of anchoring specific negative labels—such as "insurrectionist" and "racist"—to Trump supporters through repetitive imagery and terminology. CNN's Chris Cuomo introduced the term "Retrumplicans" to describe followers of the president. President-elect Joe Biden and various commentators have adopted "The Big Lie" as a standard phrase to describe challenges to the 2020 election validity.
Anthony Nist, a PhD student at Utah State University, shared his perspective on the media hysteria from his lab in Logan, Utah. Meanwhile, Stephen Sorrell requested job karma following mass layoffs at Barry Diller's companies, including Expedia and VRBO. The hosts criticize the "ruthless" nature of corporate layoffs occurring just days into the national crisis.
Coronavirus Economic Impact and Digital Thermometer Scanning
The discussion shifts to the economic ramifications of the coronavirus, referred to by the hosts as the "Kung Flu." They note the downturn in financial markets and job losses at travel companies like Expedia. Concerns are raised regarding the use of digital thermometers at checkpoints, which the hosts liken to scanning pets or a precursor to human barcodes.
The Today Show's coverage of PR executive Justine Sacco's offensive tweet about AIDS in Africa is criticized for its lack of detail. The hosts note that the media failed to mention Sacco's employer, IAC, or the specific text of the tweet, focusing instead on the "powerful" internet reaction. They question why a person with only 100 followers became a global news story, suggesting the outrage was manufactured.
Chelsea Clinton's Public Emergence and NBC Career
Chelsea Clinton is making a transition into a public figure with a new role at NBC and a seat on the board of Barry Diller's IAC. The New York Times featured a "coming out" story for her, symbolized by an illustration of her emerging from an egg. The hosts critique her social media presence and suggest she is being groomed for a future political dynasty.
