# Microbeads

> A historic blunder at the Academy Awards and new socialist film mandates in China signal a shifting landscape for global media and political influence.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 908
- **Published:** 2017-03-02
- **Length:** 2h 51m
- **Topics:** Oscar Blunder, China Censorship, Microbead Ban, Penelope Gate, [Article 50](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/article-50.md), Army Worms
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads

## About this episode

The 2017 Academy Awards ended in historic chaos as Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway mistakenly announced La La Land as the Best Picture winner due to a PricewaterhouseCoopers envelope error. While Jimmy Kimmel and Emma Stone offered conflicting accounts of the backstage blunder, the Chinese government moved to tighten its grip on Hollywood by implementing new socialist value regulations. These laws require Western films to prioritize patriotism and integrity, forcing major studios to choose between narrative independence and access to the lucrative Chinese market.

President Donald Trump delivered his first address to a joint session of Congress, drawing polarized reactions from media figures like Van Jones and Chris Matthews. While Republican Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham pushed for higher defense spending, CBS News fact-checked the President's claims regarding the 94 million Americans currently outside the labor force. In Europe, the European Parliament voted to strip Marine Le Pen of her immunity over ISIS-related tweets, and François Fillon resisted calls to resign following the Penelope Gate financial scandal. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed the UK will trigger Article 50 by late March while simultaneously proposing a nationwide ban on plastic microbeads in cosmetics.

Former Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear provided a viral moment during the Democratic response by accidentally identifying himself as a Republican while sitting in a Lexington diner. The episode also features a formal knighting ceremony for Dame Jennifer of Northern Mexico and Sir Bob of the Dude's Name Ben. Observations of Edward Snowden reveal a persistent mystery regarding his missing glasses nose pad, while a Yelp review of Berkeley Bowl West highlights the emotional fragility of the modern millennial shopper.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/transcript.md.

### 1. Academy Awards Best Picture Announcement Error (0:00–8:24)

The 2017 Academy Awards featured a significant error where the wrong film was announced as Best Picture. Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway mistakenly named La La Land as the winner after being handed the wrong envelope by PricewaterhouseCoopers accountants. Jimmy Kimmel and Emma Stone provided conflicting accounts of how many duplicate winner cards existed backstage during the confusion.

Keywords: [academy awards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/academy-awards.md), [oscars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oscars.md), [pricewaterhousecoopers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pricewaterhousecoopers.md), warren beatty, [jimmy kimmel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jimmy-kimmel.md), la la land, moonlight

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/1.md)

### 2. China Film Industry Socialist Value Regulations (8:26–13:58)

The Chinese government implemented new laws requiring Hollywood films to align with socialist core values, including patriotism and integrity. These regulations target the "American Dream" narratives common in Western cinema, which officials view as ideologically different from the collective interest of socialism. Hollywood studios face significant budget risks as they may be forced to re-edit content to maintain access to the Chinese market.

Keywords: [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [hollywood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hollywood.md), socialist values, [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md), [patriotism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriotism.md), [american dream](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/american-dream.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Donald Trump Joint Session Speech and Media Reaction (13:58–20:20)

Media outlets offered polarized interpretations of President Donald Trump's first speech to a joint session of Congress. MSNBC's Chris Matthews criticized Trump for allegedly blaming military generals for the death of Chief Ryan Owens during a raid in Yemen. Conversely, CNN's Van Jones described the speech as a unifying moment where Trump "became President of the United States."

Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [chris matthews](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-matthews.md), [ryan owens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ryan-owens.md), yemen raid, joint session of congress

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Media Coverage of Trump Teleprompter Usage (20:23–28:55)

Commentators like Don Lemon analyzed President Trump's use of a teleprompter, suggesting the formal tone did not match his natural extemporaneous speaking style. MSNBC broadcast footage of Trump practicing his speech inside the presidential limousine, which Brian Williams and other anchors treated as a novel media event.

Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [don lemon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/don-lemon.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [brian williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brian-williams.md), [teleprompter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/teleprompter.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Congressional Speech Statistics and Fact-Checking (28:58–36:37)

President Trump's hour-long speech was compared to historical addresses by Reagan and Clinton regarding duration and audience reception. CBS News fact-checked Trump's claim that 94 million Americans are out of the labor force, noting that the figure includes students, retirees, and the disabled. Democratic leaders, including Nancy Pelosi, were observed remaining seated during segments of the speech focused on job creation.

Keywords: [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md), [cbs news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbs-news.md), [shadowstats](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shadowstats.md), [unemployment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unemployment.md), [labor force](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/labor-force.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Military Budget and Presidential Approval Polling (36:37–41:02)

Republican Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham expressed support for increased defense spending, though McCain argued the proposed hikes were insufficient. Recent polling data highlighted a sharp partisan divide, with 82% of Republicans approving of Trump's performance compared to only 6% of Democrats.

Keywords: [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [lindsey graham](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lindsey-graham.md), [defense spending](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/defense-spending.md), [approval ratings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/approval-ratings.md), [polling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/polling.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Love Trumps Hate Musical Parody (41:03–44:15)

A musical production titled "Love Trumps Hate" was created by a show producer, featuring a YouTube video of protest imagery. The track utilizes voices from the "No Agenda cast of thousands" and parodies the style of charitable anthem songs like "We Are the World."

Keywords: [secret agent paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secret-agent-paul.md), [john fletcher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-fletcher.md), love trumps hate, [parody song](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/parody-song.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Rosie O'Donnell Protest Speech and Career Anecdote (44:16–52:58)

Rosie O'Donnell delivered a speech at a Washington D.C. protest where she criticized Donald Trump and his administration. An anecdote from the 1980s describes O'Donnell's early career at VH1, where she allegedly secured a role after an audition involving one of the podcast hosts.

Keywords: [rosie o'donnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rosie-o-donnell.md), [vh1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vh1.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md), [george soros](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-soros.md), [aclu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aclu.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Impeachment Speculation and Media Hostility (52:58–58:06)

Hollywood figures Kathy Griffin and Rob Reiner discussed the potential for Donald Trump's impeachment or resignation, speculating on a Mike Pence presidency. Ben Stein commented on CNN's consistent negative coverage of the administration, noting the President's frequent labeling of the media as the "enemy of the people."

Keywords: [kathy griffin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kathy-griffin.md), [rob reiner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rob-reiner.md), [mike pence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-pence.md), [ben stein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ben-stein.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Steve Beshear Democratic Response Flub (58:07–1:01:26)

Former Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear delivered the Democratic response to Trump's address from a diner in Lexington. During the broadcast, Beshear mistakenly identified himself as a "proud Republican" before correcting himself to "Democrat," leading to online mockery regarding the production's "Mannequin Challenge" aesthetic.

Keywords: steve beshear, [kentucky](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kentucky.md), democratic response, [mannequin challenge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mannequin-challenge.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Producer Contributions and Knighting Ceremony (1:01:26–1:11:28)

The show acknowledged various financial contributions from the "No Agenda" community, including the "Bias Response Team" merchandise from the show's web store. Several listeners were recognized for their donations, with some receiving "karma" and others qualifying for the formal knighting ceremony held later in the episode.

Keywords: [no agenda shop](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-shop.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [executive producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producers.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Guardian Thesis on Internet Porn and Trump (1:11:29–1:12:59)

The Guardian published a long-form thesis suggesting a link between the consumption of internet pornography and the political rise of Donald Trump. The article argues that pornographic tropes make audiences more gullible by presenting unrealistic social interactions as reality.

Keywords: [the guardian](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-guardian.md), internet porn, gullibility, [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Brexit Article 50 and House of Lords Dispute (1:13:03–1:18:20)

Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed plans to trigger Article 50 by the end of March 2017 to begin the UK's formal exit from the European Union. The House of Lords challenged the government's Brexit bill by passing an amendment to guarantee the rights of EU nationals currently living in Britain.

Keywords: [theresa may](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/theresa-may.md), [brexit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brexit.md), [article 50](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/article-50.md), [house of lords](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/house-of-lords.md), eu nationals

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/13.md)

### 14. UK Microbead Environmental Ban (1:18:21–1:22:28)

The British government announced a consultation on banning plastic microbeads in cosmetics and personal care products to protect marine environments. Prime Minister Theresa May stated that the legislation aims to be in place by October 2017 to prevent thousands of plastic particles from entering the water system.

Keywords: microbeads, [environment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/environment.md), marine life, [cosmetics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cosmetics.md), [theresa may](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/theresa-may.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Marine Le Pen Parliamentary Immunity Revocation (1:22:29–1:27:17)

The European Parliament voted to lift the parliamentary immunity of French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen. The decision allows French prosecutors to investigate Le Pen for tweeting graphic images of ISIS executions in 2015, an act that carries a potential three-year prison sentence under French law.

Keywords: [marine le pen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marine-le-pen.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [immunity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immunity.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/15.md)

### 16. François Fillon Penelope Gate Scandal (1:27:19–1:29:52)

French presidential candidate François Fillon faced calls to resign following the "Penelope Gate" financial scandal involving payments to his wife. Despite losing support from centrist allies, Fillon characterized the investigation as a "political assassination" and vowed to continue his campaign against Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen.

Keywords: françois fillon, penelope gate, [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), [presidential election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/presidential-election.md), [emmanuel macron](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emmanuel-macron.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Nigel Farage on Globalism and Nation States (1:29:53–1:31:40)

Nigel Farage discussed the historical motivations behind the formation of the European Union, arguing it was a prototype for global government. Farage claimed that the move toward globalism ignores the democratic nature of nation-states and that the election of Donald Trump halted this trend.

Keywords: [nigel farage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigel-farage.md), [globalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/globalism.md), nation state, [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [trilateral commission](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trilateral-commission.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Yelp Review of Berkeley Bowl West (1:31:42–1:35:58)

A viral one-star Yelp review for the Berkeley Bowl West grocery store in California described a millennial shopper's emotional distress. The reviewer claimed she was mocked by cashiers for purchasing a five-dollar ice cream sandwich, leading to a "bout of sobbing" on her way home.

Keywords: [yelp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yelp.md), berkeley bowl, [millennials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millennials.md), [ice cream](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ice-cream.md), [customer service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/customer-service.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Large Hadron Collider Parallel Universe Theories (1:35:59–1:37:45)

Scientific reports from 2015 suggested that researchers at the Large Hadron Collider hoped to detect parallel universes by observing gravity leaks. These theories are often linked to the "Mandela Effect," where large groups of people remember history differently than recorded facts.

Keywords: [cern](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cern.md), [large hadron collider](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/large-hadron-collider.md), [parallel universes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/parallel-universes.md), [mandela effect](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mandela-effect.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Ivanka Trump Popularity in China (1:37:45–1:40:26)

Ivanka Trump has become a popular figure in China, with dozens of businesses attempting to trademark her name for various products. Experts suggest she serves as an unofficial ambassador, helping to soften the diplomatic relationship between Washington and Beijing through cultural gestures like visiting the Chinese Embassy.

Keywords: [ivanka trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ivanka-trump.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [trademark](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trademark.md), [lunar new year](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lunar-new-year.md), [diplomacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diplomacy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Kellyanne Conway Oval Office Photo Controversy (1:40:27–1:45:14)

A photograph of Kellyanne Conway sitting with her feet tucked under her on an Oval Office couch during a meeting with HBCU leaders sparked social media outrage. Critics, including radio host DL Hughley, argued the posture was disrespectful, while defenders suggested she was simply trying to get a better angle for a group photo.

Keywords: [kellyanne conway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kellyanne-conway.md), [oval office](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oval-office.md), [hbcu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hbcu.md), dl hueley, [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Tulsi Gabbard Syria Policy Criticism (1:45:14–1:48:33)

Representative Tulsi Gabbard introduced legislation to end U.S. support for armed militant groups in Syria that are allegedly allied with al-Qaeda and ISIS. Gabbard criticized the "counterproductive regime change war" and called for an end to funneling taxpayer dollars through intermediaries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Keywords: [tulsi gabbard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tulsi-gabbard.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [saudi arabia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saudi-arabia.md), [regime change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/regime-change.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Pablo Escobar CIA Allegations (1:48:35–1:51:48)

The son of Pablo Escobar, Juan Sebastian Marroquin, claimed in a new book that his father worked for the CIA to help finance anti-communist efforts in Central America. The allegations suggest the Medellin cartel's cocaine trafficking was facilitated by U.S. intelligence, echoing themes from the Iran-Contra scandal.

Keywords: pablo escobar, [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [cocaine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cocaine.md), [iran-contra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran-contra.md), juan sebastian marroquin

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Obama Book Deal and Publishing Industry Economics (1:51:48–1:59:31)

Barack and Michelle Obama secured a joint book deal worth an estimated $65 million with Penguin Random House. Industry analysts questioned the profitability of the deal, suggesting the high figure might serve as a "payoff" rather than a standard commercial advance based on projected sales.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [michelle obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelle-obama.md), penguin random house, [pearson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pearson.md), book auction

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Valerie Jarrett and The Out-of-Towners (1:59:31–2:04:02)

Reports indicate that former White House advisor Valerie Jarrett is moving into the Obamas' new Washington D.C. residence. The discussion transitioned into a critique of the TBS show "The Detour," comparing its "cringe comedy" unfavorably to the 1970 Jack Lemmon film "The Out-of-Towners."

Keywords: [valerie jarrett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/valerie-jarrett.md), jack lemmon, the out-of-towners, [tbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tbs.md), the detour

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/25.md)

### 26. No Agenda Knighthood and Damning Ceremony (2:04:03–2:09:06)

The hosts conducted a formal ceremony to grant the titles of Dame and Knight to high-tier donors Jennifer Lovebird and Robert Gusek. The ritual included the reading of the "No Agenda" menu and the assignment of the titles Dame Jennifer of Northern Mexico and Sir Bob of the Dude's Name Ben.

Keywords: [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [dame](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dame.md), northern mexico, [roundtable](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roundtable.md), [producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/producers.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Edward Snowden Glasses and Nose Pad Mystery (2:09:06–2:12:17)

A detailed observation of Edward Snowden's public appearances revealed that he is consistently missing the left nose pad on his glasses. The hosts noted that while the mainstream media ignores this detail, it suggests the glasses may be a specific prop or part of a curated image.

Keywords: [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), reading glasses, nose pad, [media reporting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-reporting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Child Sex Sting and Vatican Resignation (2:12:17–2:16:12)

"Operation Cupid's Arrow" in Florida resulted in the arrest of 12 men involved in a child sex sting. Simultaneously, Marie Collins resigned from the Vatican's commission on sex abuse, citing resistance from the Roman Curia in addressing clerical abuse within the Catholic Church.

Keywords: operation cupid's arrow, [florida](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/florida.md), [vatican](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vatican.md), marie collins, [pope francis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pope-francis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Estonia Defense League and Russian Invasion Fears (2:16:13–2:21:41)

CBS News reported on the Estonian Defense League, a volunteer militia preparing for a potential Russian invasion following the conflict in Ukraine. While some volunteers admitted an attack is unlikely, the presence of U.S. tanks in Tallinn serves as a deterrent signal to the Kremlin.

Keywords: [estonia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/estonia.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), tallinn, defense league

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/29.md)

### 30. UFO Disclosure and the All-American Eclipse (2:21:42–2:24:26)

Speculation regarding UFO disclosure by the Trump administration was discussed alongside news of the upcoming August 21, 2017, solar eclipse. The "All-American Eclipse" will be visible exclusively within a 60-mile path crossing the United States from Oregon to South Carolina.

Keywords: [ufo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ufo.md), [solar eclipse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/solar-eclipse.md), [oregon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oregon.md), [south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-carolina.md), [trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trump.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Scientific Reproducibility Crisis in Cancer Research (2:24:27–2:26:43)

The Reproducibility Project at the University of Virginia attempted to replicate five landmark cancer biology studies, successfully confirming only two. This crisis in the scientific community calls into question the validity of peer-reviewed literature and the reliability of the scientific process.

Keywords: reproducibility project, [university of virginia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/university-of-virginia.md), cancer biology, [peer review](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peer-review.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Moral Self-Licensing and Social Media Outrage (2:26:43–2:29:53)

New research suggests that "moral outrage" on social media is often a form of self-interest used to reinforce one's status as a good person. The hosts discussed their personal strategies for "preemptive blocking" on Twitter to manage interactions with obnoxious or self-righteous users.

Keywords: [moral self-licensing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moral-self-licensing.md), [tucker carlson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tucker-carlson.md), [bill nye](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-nye.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [blocking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blocking.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/32.md)

### 33. South Africa Land Expropriation and Human Rights Watch (2:30:03–2:33:07)

President Jacob Zuma referred a bill back to Parliament that would allow for the state expropriation of land in South Africa, a move critics label as racially motivated. Additionally, Human Rights Watch faced criticism for its reports on Israel, with some labeling the organization a propaganda outfit.

Keywords: [south africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-africa.md), [jacob zuma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jacob-zuma.md), [land reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/land-reform.md), [human rights watch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/human-rights-watch.md), [israel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/israel.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Steve Bannon and the Administrative State (2:33:08–2:39:12)

Steve Bannon outlined the Trump administration's goal to achieve the "deconstruction of the administrative state." This philosophy targets the influence of technocrats and regulatory agencies like the EPA and FDA, which Bannon argues create laws without sufficient congressional oversight.

Keywords: [steve bannon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/steve-bannon.md), [administrative state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/administrative-state.md), [epa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/epa.md), [jacques ellul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jacques-ellul.md), [technocracy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/technocracy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/34.md)

### 35. School Vouchers and Education Reform (2:39:13–2:41:45)

The debate over school vouchers and charter schools was examined in the context of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos's appointment. Proponents argue vouchers allow parents to opt out of failing public systems, while critics maintain the policy undermines traditional public education.

Keywords: [betsy devos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/betsy-devos.md), [school vouchers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/school-vouchers.md), [nixon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nixon.md), [charter schools](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charter-schools.md), [homeschooling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeschooling.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/35.md)

### 36. Congo Army Worm Outbreak and Outro (2:41:46–2:50:46)

An outbreak of crop-destroying army worms in the Democratic Republic of Congo has devastated 63,000 hectares of corn, causing prices to triple. The episode concluded with a George Carlin song, "I'm an Alpha Male on Beta Blockers," and a final sign-off from the hosts.

Keywords: [congo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congo.md), army worm, corn prices, [george carlin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-carlin.md), alpha male

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/908-microbeads/chapter/36.md)

- [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/907-bias-response-team.md)
- [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/909-virtue-signalling.md)

---

This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. Every public page on this site has one: add `.md` to its URL, or request it with `Accept: text/markdown`.

- [Site index for agents (llms.txt)](https://search.noagendashow.net/llms.txt)
- [Home](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- [Search transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/search.md)
- [All episodes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episodes.md)
- [Topics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topics.md)
- [People](https://search.noagendashow.net/people.md)