Theo Von & Jordan Peterson Discuss Free Speech, AI, and More

Jordan Peterson speaks with attendees at the 2018 Young Women's Leadership Summit hosted by Turning Point USA in Dallas

What does Jordan Peterson think about Canadian society, emerging technology, and education? What’s a conversation between him and Theo Von like? In an episode of This Past Weekend with Theo Von, Jordan Peterson delved into a captivating exploration of pressing issues shaping our world. He navigated diverse concerns such as free speech, climate change, digital ethics, and personal growth—offering insightful perspectives and engaging dialogue. Continue reading for a summary of the podcast episode.

Gun Rights: The Supreme Court Tests Its Own Limits on Guns

Exterior of the United States Supreme Court building in Washington DC

How should the Second Amendment be interpreted in the 21st century? Should historical precedent inform legislation today? The Daily podcast took on the controversial topic of gun rights. Supreme Court justices and legal experts discussed how the Second Amendment should be interpreted today. Host Sabrina Tavernise led a deep dive into a momentous case holding significant implications for America’s gun rights landscape. Continue reading for a summary of the episode—along with context, alternative perspectives, and recommendations for related reading.

A People’s History of Modern America: A Time of Consensus

An American flag flying over a field of flags, an obelisk, and the coastline illustrates the history of modern America

How did control by the elites and a unified political agenda shape America after the 1960s? In what ways were corporations and the security state favored over the disenfranchised? In A People’s History of the United States, Howard Zinn explores America’s post-’60s political climate. He emphasizes elite control, a unified political agenda, and impacts on domestic and international policies. Keep reading to get a “people’s” history of modern America, from 1974 to 2001.

Jordan Peterson: Free Speech Is Under Attack

Jordan Peterson speaks at the 2018 Student Action Summit in West Palm Beach, Florida

Do you really have freedom of speech? Do you feel like you can fully express your views privately or online? What has Jordan Peterson’s experience been? According to Jordan Peterson, free speech is at great risk. Peterson and podcast host Theo Von engaged in a stimulating conversation on This Past Weekend. They talked about compelled speech legislation in Canada, speech on the internet, and AI deepfakes. Read more for a summary of this conversation, along with some context and recommendations for related reading.

How AI Chatbots Are Changing the Future of Communication

A man talking to an AI chatbot in a depiction of the future of communication

What are the pros and cons of using AI chatbots? Are chatbots like ChatGPT the future of communication? How are chatbots changing how we connect with other humans? The growing prevalence and sophistication of chatbots is reshaping human language, communication, and relationships. As people interact with increasingly human-like chatbots, their conversations with humans could turn more transactional, diluting their ability to empathize and build rapport. Continue reading for a look at chatbots’ effects on communication and the potential risks.

Journalism Layoffs Threaten Truth and Democracy

A newspaper store in a city with a closing sign on the front door

Why are journalism layoffs at an all-time high? Why is this so dangerous for society? Which outlets are the most likely to survive? Traditional journalism faces a cataclysmic crisis due to the rise of tech giants, outdated business models, and consumer behavior shifts. The crisis has led to massive job losses in journalism and increased mistrust of the media. Experts warn it could fuel manipulation in democratic processes. Keep reading to learn what’s behind the layoffs and the detrimental effects they could have.

The Cause of the Severe Weather in California

A young man walking through a flooded city street wearing a backpack

What is an atmospheric river? How are they affecting California’s weather? Will California’s weather get more or less extreme in the coming years? A record-breaking storm hit California in early February 2024, causing widespread flooding in major cities. Researchers predict that as global temperatures continue to rise, California will experience more intense storms with increased dry spells between them. Continue reading to learn what’s behind the severe weather in California and the challenges it creates.

Satire and Society: How Comedians Address Serious Issues

A man holding a microphone in front of a large audience, giving a satire and society comedy routine.

How do comedians handle important issues in their routines? Do satire and society go hand-in-hand? On Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast, the hosts and Rich Vos talk about the serious issues they discuss in their comedic routines. They also focus on minority groups and the work they do to contribute to society, which is often overlooked. Take a look at how comedians approach serious issues.

Is Social Media Beneficial or Harmful? Why It Can Be Both

A tablet showing an Instagram photo of a woman taking a selfie on social media.

Is social media beneficial or harmful? What role do influencers play in people’s lives? Social media is more than just a platform to share photos with family and friends. It’s now become a place where people conduct business, including influencers who rely on viewership and followers for income. But it’s not always rainbows and butterflies. Here’s why Brittany Broski believes social media has its benefits and drawbacks, as stated on The Broski Report.

Biden’s Natural Gas Suspension: Environment vs. Economy

A cargo ship on the ocean carrying liquid natural gas.

What are the environmental consequences of natural gas exports? How is the Biden administration tackling the trade-off between increased natural gas exports and climate change goals? The Biden administration has temporarily suspended approval of natural gas exports to non-free trade agreement countries. As Democrats prepare for the 2024 presidential election, they must balance the economic benefits of increasing natural gas exports with fulfilling climate change pledges. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of Biden’s natural gas suspension.