6 chapters across the catalog
Seattle City Council, Defunding the Police, Institutionalized Racism
The President of the Seattle City Council defended a 20% reduction in the police budget, claiming it is impossible to undo "400 years of institutionalized racism" in one cycle. She argued that duties like handling homelessness and mental health should be transferred to civilian functions, which critics view as dangerous virtue signaling.
Smartphone Dependence, White Matter and Microsoft Ads
A study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience suggests that Smartphone Dependence (SPD) can alter white matter integrity and gray matter density in the brain. The hosts recall an old Microsoft Windows Phone commercial that predicted the social and physical dangers of being overly distracted by mobile devices.
Angela Merkel's Political Instability and SPD Coalition
German Chancellor Angela Merkel faces increasing political pressure as coalition talks struggle and calls for a leadership change grow within her party. The hosts discuss the precarious position of the SPD and the CSU in Bavaria, noting that Merkel's long-standing dominance is being challenged by internal dissent and the fallout from the refugee crisis.
European Union Renews Glyphosate License Amid Controversy
EU diplomats approved a five-year license extension for the herbicide glyphosate, commonly known as Monsanto's Roundup. The decision caused a political rift in Germany after the agriculture minister voted in favor of the extension against the wishes of the environment minister. Environmental groups expressed disappointment, citing studies that label the chemical as a probable carcinogen.
German Federal Elections, Angela Merkel Popularity
Polling data ahead of the German federal elections shows Chancellor Angela Merkel holding a significant lead over her rival Martin Schulz. Merkel's CDU-CSU bloc is projected to remain the strongest party, while the right-wing AfD is expected to enter the Bundestag for the first time. Despite some public protests regarding the refugee crisis, Merkel's popularity has reportedly increased in the final weeks of the campaign.
German Election Debate, Angela Merkel vs. Martin Schulz
The televised debate between Chancellor Angela Merkel and her challenger Martin Schulz is described by German media as a "duet" rather than a duel due to the lack of conflict. Critics argue the debate ignored the most pressing issue for voters: migration. Despite some public dissatisfaction, Merkel is expected to win the upcoming national election easily.
