3 chapters across the catalog
Value for Value Giving and AI Re-creations of Deceased Figures
The hosts discuss the ethics of using AI to recreate deceased personalities, such as an AI Scott Adams or Roger Ebert. Adam Curry refuses to create an AI version of John C. Dvorak, calling such nostalgia a contributor to "epidemic sadness." They touch on the importance of tithing and spiritual grounding in a "terminally online" generation that lacks community and purpose.
Corporate Political Spending, Roger Ebert Disney Dispute
The Supreme Court decision allowing unlimited corporate spending in politics is dismissed as a formality for a system already dominated by corporate money. Separately, film critic Roger Ebert is facing copyright takedown notices from Disney for a tribute to Gene Siskel, despite Steve Jobs being Disney's largest shareholder.
The evolution of the "Siskel and Ebert" movie review show is discussed, specifically the transition to "Ebert and Roeper" and the abandonment of the iconic "Thumbs Up" trademark. The new rating system—"See it, Rent it, or Skip it"—is criticized as a branding failure that lacks the cultural impact of the original. The "Rent it" category is particularly viewed as a "sellout" designed to provide positive quotes for future DVD releases.
