The online platform Second Life is nearly 15 years old but still has more than half a million regular users. We look into why virtual worlds remain so appealing. We talk to a writer about social media’s tendency to only tie us to the present and why he thinks a connection to the past is so important. And we get a criminal law expert’s take on Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ announcement to add two new federal prosecutors to Milwaukee to fight violent crime.
Featured in this Show
-
For More Than Half A Million Users, Second Life Still Remains A Home
Released in 2003, the platform Second Life has seemingly become a relic of Internet past. But it turns out that in 2017, more than half a million regular users still log-in every month…and their reasons for doing so are diverse, complex, and in some cases, bittersweet. A writer talks about the individuals who keep returning to this virtual world, long after many have moved on, as well as whether or not virtual experiences can be just as authentic as real life experiences.
-
Social Media Keeping Us Focused On The Present
Looking at our social media feeds, it’s rare to find a post from more than a few hours, or even minutes, ago. Our guest says that online platforms are designed to keep us stuck in the moment, and that could be a real danger. He talks with us about why he thinks such extreme present-mindedness impairs our ability to engage with some of the world’s complex issues.
Do you worry about social media being geared toward what’s happening at the given moment? Do you think you’re missing out on more important things? What changes would you like to see in your social media feed?
Let us know by emailing ideas@wpr.org
You can also contact us here:
Tweet: @centraltimewpr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theideasnetwork/
Call during showtime: 1-800-642-1234
-
DOJ Appoints Two New Federal Prosecutors To Milwaukee
In an effort to combat violent crime, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced that he will appoint two new federal prosecutors to Milwaukee yesterday. We ask a law expert what impact the move could have on violent crime and incarceration in Wisconsin.
Episode Credits
- Rob Ferrett Host
- Chris Malina Host
- Chris Malina Producer
- Dean Knetter Producer
- Haleema Shah Producer
- Leslie Jamison Guest
- Clive Thompson Guest
- Michael O'Hear Guest
Wisconsin Public Radio, © Copyright 2024, Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board.
