WhoWhatWhy’s Post

"Even in the generic sense of political rights and universal suffrage and basic ‘one person, one vote’ rules, the US comes up short. The electoral college is a ridiculous system. There are barriers to getting on the ballot. There are barriers to appearing in presidential debates. There’s, of course, the absurd campaign finance system, which essentially makes it a contest of who can curry the most favor with the oligarchy. "Which is pretty much the exact opposite of democracy. So there are different voting systems in different localities. There are even places where there’s really no way to recount a ballot or know that a ballot will be counted accurately. We’ve had electronic voting, where there’s no paper and the vote tabulating software is a proprietary trade secret of a corporation that we are not a part of are able to exercise the authority over. And of course they suppress free speech, the right to assemble, and they infiltrate political groups and so on. There’s all sorts of ways that the US doesn’t even conform to the generic political science ‘good liberal American’ version of democracy, which is still something that has no problem accommodating enormous economic inequality."

According to a recent Gallup study, 38% of Americans have no trust at all in newspapers, TV, and radio. Notably, this is the first time in history that the percentage of Americans with no trust at all in the media is higher than the percentage of those who trust the media. So, how can we make sure our sources are reputable, and the information we’re getting is reliable? Dan Ariely, the James B. Duke Professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University has the advice we need to combat misinformation — because he’s experienced the damage it can do firsthand. Listen below for his take on "fake news."

In today's world, the intersection of personal liberties and political actions is more important than ever. As professionals, our political engagement can have a significant impact on our careers and communities. That's why I'm excited to announce my upcoming podcast series, "Process/Progress," which delves into the intricacies of American democracy and why so many individuals remain disengaged from the voting process. Through conversations with experts, academics, and everyday individuals, we'll explore the systemic barriers to voting, the consequences of apathy, and the potential for reform. This isn't just an academic exercise. Recent years have shown us the real-world implications of disengagement, from rising discrimination to pivotal legal decisions that shape our society. With an important election on the horizon, "Process/Progress" seeks to illuminate the path from passive observation to active participation. Whether you're motivated by concise insights, compelling narratives, detailed analysis, or the prospect of collective action, this series is designed for those who seek to understand not just the mechanics of voting, but its profound implications on our lives and futures. The trailer premieres on September 3, followed by the first episode on September 10. As we approach an election that could redefine our nation's course, join me in exploring how we, as a community of professionals and citizens, can redefine the meaning of "We The People." Let's embark on this crucial exploration together and shape the future with our voices, actions, and engagement.

According to a recent Gallup study, 38% of Americans have no trust at all in newspapers, TV, and radio. Notably, this is the first time in history that the percentage of Americans with no trust at all in the media is higher than the percentage of those who trust the media. So, how can we make sure our sources are reputable, and the information we’re getting is reliable? Dan Ariely, the James B. Duke Professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University has the advice we need to combat misinformation — because he’s experienced the damage it can do firsthand. Listen below for his take on "fake news."

If you’re finding it harder these days to discern exactly what to believe when you watch or read the news, you’re not alone. It’s gotten so bad that The Associated Press has an entire section of their website dedicated to “Not Real News” where they fact-check the news of the week. So, how can we make sure our sources are reputable, and the information we’re getting is reliable? Dan Ariely, the James B. Duke Professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University has all the advice we need to combat misinformation. His new book “MISBELIEF: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things,” delves into the growing phenomena of discarded truths, alternative facts, and full-blown conspiracy theories that have driven a wedge in public discourse and our personal relationships. In Mailbag, we take questions on IRAs and 529s. In our money tip of the week, what you should do when a DM hits your inbox promising “a sure way to beat the market.” Tune in and follow below.

What is Comparative Politics and how it helps us make sense of the world? In an episode of the Governance Talk podcast, I address these questions in a way that it is accessible to the general public (as the say in PR-"comparative politics en arroz y habichuelas").

If you’re finding it harder these days to discern exactly what to believe when you watch or read the news, you’re not alone. It’s gotten so bad that The Associated Press has an entire section of their website dedicated to “Not Real News” where they fact-check the news of the week. So, how can we make sure our sources are reputable, and the information we’re getting is reliable? Dan Ariely, the James B. Duke Professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University has all the advice we need to combat misinformation. His new book “MISBELIEF: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things,” delves into the growing phenomena of discarded truths, alternative facts, and full-blown conspiracy theories that have driven a wedge in public discourse and our personal relationships. In Mailbag, we take questions on IRAs and 529s. In our money tip of the week, what you should do when a DM hits your inbox promising “a sure way to beat the market.” Tune in and follow below.

What could reparations look like in Boston and beyond? A new podcast from @GBHNews, What Is Owed?, sets out to unpack the history, tensions, precedents, and current movement that surround reparations, and what that means for a city with such a complicated past. Host, GBH News political reporter Saraya Wintersmith, will be joined by journalists, scholars, community leaders, and politicians who bring their diverse perspectives to the conversation. The series, produced in partnership with @PRX, will be available wherever you get your favorite podcasts on Feb 15. Check out the trailer now ➡️gbhnews.org/whatisowed What Is Owed? is a cornerstone of “Reckoning + Repair” - @GBH ‘s ongoing, organization-wide initiative which will investigate the historical record and the discussion now underway in Boston and across the nation about reparations. The aim, across platforms and programs, is to help listeners, viewers and readers understand the nuance, debate, ambiguity and possible action resulting from the legacy of slavery in the United States. #WhatIsOwedPodcast #reparations #publicmedia #podcast #journalism #blackhistorymonth

Episode 2/2: Political consultant Lee Spieckerman has thoughts about a lot of subjects. He's especially passionate about politics, fiscal policy, and racial reconciliation. His opinions are strong and not always what you might expect. Tune in now: https://lnkd.in/gVkRnjEe

In the market for a smart new podcast about an important topic? Hit the subscribe button on "What Is Owed?" from GBH News & PRX and the first episode will drop right into your earbuds.