3 chapters across the catalog
FBI Television Show, Genomic Phenotyping and Bomb Triggers
The new Dick Wolf series "FBI" is critiqued for its portrayal of technology and procedural tropes. The show features "genomic phenotyping" to create sketches from blood samples and a bizarre plot point involving 15-year-old mobile phones used as bomb triggers because their batteries lack modern fail-safes. The hosts mock the dialogue and the "cool" rebranding of the bureau.
Amazon Bomb Material Recommendations, Whole Foods Acquisition
Channel 4 in the UK investigated claims that Amazon's recommendation engine was suggesting bomb-making materials, concluding the results were actually based on common kitchen and cooking items. Separately, the impact of Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods is discussed, with conflicting reports on whether the grocery chain's prices have become more competitive or if the shopping experience has significantly changed.
Amazon Algorithm Glitch, Bomb-Making Recommendations, Media War
Amazon apologizes for a technical glitch that sent baby registry emails to customers who did not have registries. A more serious report from Channel 4 reveals that Amazon's "frequently bought together" algorithm recommends ingredients for crude bombs, such as saltpeter and ball bearings. The hosts suggest that traditional media networks highlight these stories to undermine their digital competitors.
