TCWD Podcast: AI Losers
The New York Times terminated a freelance book reviewer after discovering he used AI to help write a review. The incident sparked a backlash that questioned whether the problem lies with underpaid writers turning to technology or with a formulaic editorial process that AI can easily replicate. The controversy echoes similar reactions to filmmaker Steven Soderbergh’s plan to incorporate AI into a future project. Hosts Jessa and Nico use the episode to explore how AI exposes a risk‑averse, gatekept cultural ecosystem.
TCWD Podcast: Taste Will Save Us From AI
The Culture We Deserve marks its 100th episode by tackling the fallout from the novel *Shy Girl*, which was pulled after author Mia Ballard was accused of using AI in its creation. The discussion highlights how major publisher Hachette struggles to...
Culture, Digested: Imaginative Solidarity
The blog critiques the recurring MFA debate, arguing it overlooks the program’s role in reinforcing class divisions within American higher education. It contends that MFA programs act as gatekeepers, privileging those with economic and cultural capital while marginalizing lower‑income writers....
TCWD Podcast: Who Killed the Media?
The TCWD Podcast "Who Killed the Media?" argues that journalism’s decline is engineered, not accidental, citing AI‑generated fake war footage, a war‑hawk press, and profit‑driven ownership. Hosts Jessa and Nico point to venture‑capital funding, Jeff Bezos’ controversial handling of the...