Spotify recently announced it would be removing singer R. Kelly’s music from its playlists due to the artist’s history of sexual misconduct allegations. In addition to removing music that encourages violence against certain groups from its algorithms and playlists, Spotify’s new policy against hate speech will also stop promoting songs by artists who they determine behave poorly. While many agree with the decision to pull R. Kelly’s music specifically, some experts are concerned about the amount of power this policy gives to streaming services. Listen to learn more about Spotify’s new rule and then debate: Should streaming services punish artists accused of harassment?
Story Length: 3:24
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March 7, 2018
5:07
Voice-activated devices, such as Alexa and Google Home, always have their microphones on. They are passively listening until you say the “wake” word, but people are worried they are listening and recording every single thing that is said. The owners of the devices can go into the app to see a history of everything that is heard by the device. One concern is that this data could be used to look for evidence that could help to prosecute crimes, or be reviewed by the National Security Agency. Listen to this story to hear about the pros and cons of voice-activated devices and their impact on privacy.
Read MoreDecember 7, 2017
4:50
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) decided to remove laws that protect net neutrality. Net neutrality is the result of laws that have been in effect for 2 years that prohibit Internet service providers from speeding up or slowing down any websites you use. Without net neutrality, Internet service providers could go from being neutral gateways to gatekeepers. There are differences in opinion about whether this will be helpful for consumers or the economy. Listen to hear from the former FCC chairman about his thoughts on an open Internet.
Read MoreNovember 8, 2017
3:11
Many women recently have tagged their social media posts with the hash tag “Me Too.” These two words are meant to bring attention to sexual assault and highlight its prevalence, since it is not often spoken about. This movement began ten years ago when an African American woman wanted to bring attention to the problem of sexual harassment and assault. Now, in response to movie producer Harvey Weinstein's sexual assault scandal, it has become a movement. Listen to hear more about how social media and the #metoo campaign is helping people speak out about sexual harassment and assault.
Read MoreMarch 2, 2016
3:26
The popstar Kesha is in a legal battle regarding her recording contract with Sony Music. She has accused her producer of abusing her, and she does not want to continue producing music with him or with Sony. That’s why her last album was released in 2012. While her lawsuits are ongoing her legal contract with Sony prevents her from producing music under other labels. Fans and other stars, such as Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift and Lena Dunham have expressed their support. Listen to the story to learn more about Kesha’s legal battle and about the power the music industry has over the making of a star.
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