# Turned on by Esther Dyson > A diplomatic push for Chinese investment meets a terrifying mechanical failure at Heathrow and a chilling CIA warning about the vulnerability of global power grids. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 13 - **Published:** 2008-01-19 - **Length:** 53m - **Topics:** Sovereign Wealth, Heathrow Crash, Power Grid Hacking, [Esther Dyson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/esther-dyson.md), [Boeing 777](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing-777.md), Double Taxation - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson ## About this episode Prime Minister Gordon Brown traveled to China this week to court sovereign wealth funds, proposing a trade deal that could see Chinese investment in Northern Rock and UK bonds. The Financial Times reports that Britain intends to trade luxury goods and financial services for increased market access, while a new UK tax proposal threatens to impose a 30,000-pound fee on residents with overseas income. This policy shift creates a double taxation crisis for American citizens living in Britain, who face capital gains taxes from the United States regardless of their residency. Investigators from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau are scrutinizing the Boeing 777 crash at Heathrow Airport after a flight from Beijing lost engine response at 600 feet. While the Fully Authorized Digital Engine Controller failed to respond to manual throttle commands, the crew managed a short landing that sheared off the gear but saved the passengers. Meanwhile, a CIA analyst revealed at a security conference that hackers have successfully extorted multiple countries after infiltrating national power grids. These security concerns mirror anxieties regarding the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, where experts question if onboard Wi-Fi could allow passengers to hijack flight control systems. Tech investor Esther Dyson joins the program to discuss her investments in light jet companies and her father, physicist Freeman Dyson. The conversation turns to the utility of Twitter with mentions of Dave Winer and Ev Williams, while Natalie Del Conte reflects on her transition from print to video media following a notable Valleywag departure. John C. Dvorak and Adam Curry debate the merits of professional blogging and the accuracy of Wikipedia entries. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/transcript.md. ### 1. Gordon Brown, Chinese Sovereign Wealth Funds, UK Trade Relations (0:01–2:23) Prime Minister Gordon Brown traveled to China to encourage sovereign wealth funds to invest in the United Kingdom. The proposed deal involves opening trade routes and potentially purchasing bonds for Northern Rock in exchange for Chinese access to UK markets. The Financial Times reports that Britain intends to reciprocate with luxury goods, financial services, and the English language. Keywords: [gordon brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-brown.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), sovereign wealth funds, [northern rock](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northern-rock.md), [rolls royce](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rolls-royce.md), [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/1.md) ### 2. UK Tax Law, US Citizenship, Capital Gains Double Taxation (2:23–4:05) A new UK tax law proposal requires residents with overseas income to pay an annual fee of 30,000 pounds to avoid worldwide taxation. American citizens living in the UK face unique challenges because the United States taxes capital gains regardless of where the transaction occurs. This policy shift effectively creates a double taxation scenario for Americans selling assets abroad while residing in Britain. Keywords: [tax law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-law.md), [capital gains](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/capital-gains.md), [internal revenue service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internal-revenue-service.md), uk treasury, [citizenship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/citizenship.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Irish Artist Tax Exemption, Australian Outback Train Travel (4:06–6:27) Ireland offers specific tax benefits and potential citizenship paths for artists and writers, providing an alternative to high-tax jurisdictions. In a separate travel anecdote, a journey across Australia via the South Pacific line is described, featuring the longest straight railroad stretch in the world. The 24-hour train ride to Perth is characterized as an exhausting experience despite its old-fashioned atmosphere. Keywords: [ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ireland.md), [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [perth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/perth.md), [tax exemption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-exemption.md), [artists](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/artists.md), orient express [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Penmanship Struggles, Google Notebook, DirectTV Vacation Policy (6:28–10:28) Difficulties with illegible handwriting and disorganized note-taking lead to a discussion on digital alternatives like Google Notebook for mobile devices. A tip regarding satellite television providers reveals that DirectTV and Dish Network allow customers to suspend service for up to 90 days during vacations. The conversation highlights the frustration of finding old notes with phone numbers or quotes that lack proper context or attribution. Keywords: [penmanship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/penmanship.md), google notebook, directtv, [dish network](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dish-network.md), organization [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Malicious Code Trends, PC Magazine, Neanderthal Redheads (10:29–13:12) A review of old notes mentions Michael Upslow and the future of malicious code, referencing Dutch publisher Elsevier and PC Magazine editor Neil Rubenking. The topic shifts to a scientific claim that Neanderthals were redheads. This leads to an observation about social discrimination against "gingers" in the United Kingdom, potentially linked to historical tensions with the Irish and Scots. Keywords: [malware](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/malware.md), [elsevier](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elsevier.md), [neil rubenking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neil-rubenking.md), neanderthals, gingers [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/5.md) ### 6. French Economy, Silicon Valley Frogs Podcast, Audacity Software (13:12–14:53) A listener named Arnaud from the Silicon Valley Frogs podcast calls in to defend the French economy and work ethic. He argues that the French economy is currently performing at a level comparable to that of the United States. The segment concludes with a brief recommendation for using Audacity software to edit audio submissions for better timing. Keywords: [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), arnaud, silicon valley frogs, [audacity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/audacity.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Book Titles, Digital Media Profits, Blog Infrastructure (14:56–17:08) The process of writing books is discussed, with a focus on whether the effort is financially rewarding compared to other media. One participant admits to writing down book titles as a way to clear mental space without necessarily completing the manuscripts. Concepts regarding the "self-communication" of blogs and the use of blog content as legal evidence are also explored. Keywords: [book publishing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/book-publishing.md), textra, [yahoo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yahoo.md), [blogging](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blogging.md), [digital age](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/digital-age.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Wi-Fi Hacking Risks, Gaming Notes (17:09–18:47) Concerns were raised regarding the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and whether passengers using onboard Wi-Fi could potentially hack into the aircraft's flight control systems. An old quote from a naval admiral expresses a refusal to allow computerized networks on ships under his command. The segment transitions into a confusing list of gaming-related notes involving "Team SK" and 1976. Keywords: [boeing 787](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing-787.md), [dreamliner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dreamliner.md), [wi-fi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wi-fi.md), [hacking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hacking.md), [cybersecurity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cybersecurity.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Information Retrieval, Note-Taking Psychology, Counseling for Disorganization (18:48–22:33) The struggle to manage high volumes of information leads to a discussion on the need for better digital interfaces to retrieve personal notes. One speaker suggests that failing to record names next to phone numbers is a psychological block rooted in a sense of self-importance. The segment explores the idea of seeking counseling to overcome these organizational failures. Keywords: [productivity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/productivity.md), [psychology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/psychology.md), note-taking, information management, [counseling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/counseling.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/9.md) ### 10. British Airways Flight 38, Heathrow Crash Investigation, Fly-By-Wire Systems (22:36–25:45) The investigation into the Boeing 777 crash at Heathrow Airport focuses on the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) preliminary findings. The aircraft utilizes a fly-by-wire system where pilot inputs are processed by the Fully Authorized Digital Engine Controller (FADEC). While the media has praised the crew, technical questions remain regarding why the massive engines failed to respond to manual throttle commands during the final approach. Keywords: [heathrow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/heathrow.md), [boeing 777](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing-777.md), aaib, [fly-by-wire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fly-by-wire.md), fadec [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Boeing 777 Landing Mechanics, Engine Failure, Fleet Grounding (25:45–28:29) During a landing from Beijing, a Boeing 777 experienced a lack of engine response while on autopilot at 600 feet. Despite the crew's attempts to manually advance the throttles, the plane landed short of the runway, causing the landing gear to shear off. There are calls to ground the 777 fleet until the specific cause of the engine non-responsiveness is identified and rectified. Keywords: [boeing 777](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing-777.md), [autopilot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/autopilot.md), landing gear, [aviation safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation-safety.md), [beijing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/beijing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Natalie Del Conte, Valleywag Post, Twitter Adoption (28:30–33:54) A Valleywag post titled "So long and thanks for all the fashion advice" features Natalie Del Conte discussing her departure and her experiences with viewer feedback. The post mentions John Dvorak's advice regarding her age and the transition from print to video media. This sparks a broader conversation about the utility of Twitter and whether it is merely a platform for "nervous energy" or a legitimate communication tool. Keywords: [natalie del conte](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/natalie-del-conte.md), valleywag, [becky worley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/becky-worley.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), textra [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Violet Blue, Twitter Functionality, Dave Winer (33:55–37:26) A story involving sex columnist Violet Blue and public recordings is briefly dismissed as "stupid." The discussion returns to Twitter, highlighting its technical infrastructure which allows access via SMS and IM. Industry figures like Ev Williams and Dave Winer are cited as early adopters who see the platform as a cutting-edge communication method rather than just a chat room. Keywords: violet blue, [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [ev williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ev-williams.md), [dave winer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dave-winer.md), [sms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sms.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Professional Blogging, Public Schedules, Escort Marketing Tactics (37:27–39:56) The practice of high-profile bloggers like Jason Calacanis posting their travel schedules is criticized as a display of self-importance. A comparison is drawn to how professional escorts use blogs to list tour dates and locations for client coordination. The utility of such public scheduling is questioned for anyone not operating in a specific service industry. Keywords: [blogging](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blogging.md), [jason calacanis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jason-calacanis.md), [esther dyson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/esther-dyson.md), [escorts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/escorts.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Esther Dyson, PC Forum, Freeman Dyson (39:56–44:05) Esther Dyson's online presence, including her Flickr feed of swimming pools and investments in light jet companies, is discussed. An anecdote from the mid-1990s describes a meeting at the PC Forum in Arizona during the dot-com boom. The conversation also touches on her father, the famous physicist Freeman Dyson, and her sister who works as a nurse. Keywords: [esther dyson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/esther-dyson.md), freeman dyson, pc forum, vcs, [physics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/physics.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Wikipedia Inaccuracy, History Channel, Media Skepticism (44:06–45:43) Personal expertise often reveals inaccuracies in Wikipedia entries and History Channel programming, leading to a general skepticism of mainstream media. Examples include flawed representations of Amsterdam and historical events. The conclusion is that if the "magic box" of television is wrong about familiar subjects, it is likely unreliable regarding unknown topics as well. Keywords: [wikipedia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikipedia.md), [history channel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/history-channel.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [media bias](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-bias.md), [skepticism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skepticism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Washington Post, The Economist, Financial Times Slogans (45:44–48:49) The Washington Post is praised for its hardline reporting and credibility compared to the New York Times, which is perceived as shifting toward "soft stories." The Economist is also recommended as an outstanding publication. The Financial Times is highlighted for its editorial slogan, "Without fear and without favor," which reflects its direct reporting style. Keywords: [washington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-post.md), [the economist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-economist.md), [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [op-ed](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/op-ed.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Power Grid Hacking, CIA Security Reports, Corporate Conspiracies (48:50–52:04) A CIA analyst reported at a security conference that hackers have successfully extorted money from several countries after gaining access to their power grids. There is speculation that security companies might be sensationalizing these threats to sell encryption software. This mirrors theories about pharmaceutical companies and the intentional spread of viruses to drive medicine sales. Keywords: [cyber warfare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cyber-warfare.md), [power grid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/power-grid.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [extortion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/extortion.md), security companies [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Show Wrap-up, Skype Connection Issues, Sign-off (52:06–53:31) The hosts conclude the episode, noting some technical "crunchiness" in the Skype connection. They summarize the week's discussion and confirm plans to record again the following week. Adam Curry signs off from the United Kingdom, and John C. Dvorak signs off from Northern California. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson/chapter/19.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/12-lawsuit-crazy.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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