When news broke that thirty-three wealthy and influential parents were busted for bribing their children’s way into some of the most elite American universities, the media instantly fixated on the story. The scandal had all the elements of great clickbait: it brought together discussions of Hollywood families, privilege in contemporary America, education reform, and influencer […]
Julia Salazar and the American Fib
At just 27 years old, Julia Salazar is now the first-time state senator of New York’s 18th district. Salazar – a woman of color, a democratic socialist, and a rookie politician – defeated the incumbent (eight-term!) state senator Martin Dilan at the primaries in September, and then ran uncontested. News outlets loved her story of […]
We Need a New System for Hosting the Olympics
In 1908, London hosted the fourth modern Olympic Games. The Olympics took place over the course of more than six months, and although the Games went smoothly, the buildup was more than a little chaotic. Four cities had placed bids to host, and Rome, the selected winner, was making preparations. On April 7, 1906, however, […]
What Taylor Swift Got Wrong This Time
To say that Taylor Swift’s image has changed over the course of her career would be an understatement. Since her first album came out in 2006 she has grown up, and her brand has documented her growth. Along the way, she’s dealt with a series of public criticisms and feuds, most recently with Kanye West, […]
The Weinstein Scandal Is A Turning Point for Hollywood
Movie mogul Harvey Weinstein has produced films that appeal to every audience. From Pulp Fiction to Shakespeare in Love, Good Will Hunting to The Artist, Weinstein has helped create some of the most emotional, interesting, and powerful movies of this generation. Indeed, Weinstein has reportedly been thanked in Oscars acceptance speeches as many times as […]