JRE #1238 – Brian Redban

by

4-Feb-19






Joe Rogan Podcast #1238 – Brian Redban: Topic Breakdown

Joe Rogan Podcast #1238 – Brian Redban: Topic Breakdown

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features comedian and podcasting mogul, Brian Redban. It takes a winding path through topics ranging from online gaming to the intricacies of social media censorship, exploring the complexities of free speech and the power of online platforms. The conversation ultimately delves into the controversial figure of Alex Jones, highlighting the challenges of navigating truth and deception in a digital age.

1. The Addiction of Online Gaming:

  • Joe Rogan and Brian Redban reminisce about their own experiences with Quake, a fast-paced online shooter that they haven’t played in years, highlighting the intense immersion and addictive nature of the game.
  • They discuss the evolving landscape of online gaming, with titles like Fortnite and PUBG, and how the accessibility and social aspect of online gaming contribute to its addictive quality.
  • The discussion touches upon the potential negative impact of excessive gaming, with Rogan acknowledging the decline in his eyesight, an issue shared by many older gamers.
  • The conversation highlights the skill and dedication required to excel in online gaming, suggesting that those who continue to play Quake at a high level are truly dedicated and talented individuals.

2. The Controversial Interview with Jack Dorsey:

  • Rogan acknowledges the public backlash to his podcast interview with Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, emphasizing Dorsey’s willingness to engage in a frank conversation about complex issues.
  • Rogan explains that he was primarily interested in understanding Dorsey’s perspective on Twitter’s role as a platform for communication, rather than focusing on specific cases of censorship.
  • Rogan addresses the criticism he received for not pressing Dorsey harder on specific instances of censorship, particularly regarding the banning of right-wing figures while seemingly allowing offensive content from other groups.
  • Dorsey’s perspective, as shared by Rogan, is that Twitter should be viewed as a basic human right, a utility akin to a public service, rather than a private company with absolute control over content.

3. The Complexities of Social Media Censorship:

  • The conversation dives into the difficult issue of social media censorship, with Rogan acknowledging the challenges and inconsistencies in Twitter’s banning practices.
  • Rogan’s perspective is that many of the banned individuals may have violated Twitter’s terms of service, even if the application of those rules seems arbitrary.
  • Rogan raises the contentious topic of racism against white people, questioning the validity of the argument that racism only exists when wielded by those in positions of power.
  • The conversation explores the potential for double standards in social media moderation, highlighting concerns about selective enforcement of rules and the potential for hypocrisy.

4. The Importance of Individuality and Conversation:

  • Rogan emphasizes the importance of viewing individuals as individuals, arguing against generalizations based on race or any other group affiliation.
  • He stresses that racism against any group is harmful and counterproductive, regardless of historical context or perceived power dynamics.
  • Rogan advocates for open and honest conversation about these sensitive topics, arguing that social justice warriors should not be exempt from critical examination.
  • He expresses optimism that a more equitable and just system of social media moderation is possible with open dialogue and a willingness to compromise.

5. The Influence of Social Media Platforms:

  • The podcast touches upon the growing influence of social media platforms, with Rogan expressing concern about the power they wield over public discourse and the potential for manipulation.
  • Rogan discusses the use of algorithms and “shadow banning” to control the visibility of content and shape the information people see.
  • He questions the ethics of platforms like Twitter and YouTube actively curating content, raising concerns about the potential for censorship and the suppression of dissenting voices.
  • The conversation explores the impact of these platforms on the dissemination of information, especially in sensitive situations like political campaigns and protests.

6. The Rise of Meme Culture and Content Piracy:

  • The discussion turns to the phenomenon of meme culture and the rise of accounts like Fuck Jerry and The Fat Jew, who repurpose and often profit from other people’s content.
  • Rogan questions the ethics of these accounts, highlighting the potential for plagiarism and the lack of compensation for original creators.
  • The conversation examines the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding content sharing on social media, questioning whether platforms like Instagram are complicit in piracy.
  • Rogan acknowledges the potential value of curating and sharing content, but raises concerns about the lack of accountability and fairness in this emerging business model.

7. The Evolution of Comedy and Intellectual Property:

  • The conversation delves into the history of intellectual property theft in the entertainment industry, with Rogan sharing a personal anecdote about Kevin James’ stand-up material being stolen for a popular sitcom.
  • He argues that the rise of social media and the ease of sharing content has made plagiarism more prevalent and potentially more damaging to creators.
  • The discussion touches upon the role of social media accounts in amplifying and disseminating content, potentially harming original creators and affecting the value of their work.
  • Rogan acknowledges the challenges of protecting intellectual property in the digital age, emphasizing the need for accountability and fair compensation for creators.

8. The Weaponization of Social Media:

  • Rogan discusses the weaponization of social media platforms for personal attacks and the manipulation of online audiences.
  • He highlights the use of “dislike” buttons and other metrics to target and harass individuals, potentially deranking their content and suppressing their voices.
  • The conversation explores the impact of these tactics on online discourse and the potential for social media to become a tool for bullying and intimidation.
  • Rogan expresses concern about the potential for algorithms and social media platforms to amplify negativity and sow division, potentially exacerbating real-world conflicts.

9. The Controversial Figure of Alex Jones:

  • The conversation shifts to the controversial figure of Alex Jones, with Rogan acknowledging Jones’ problematic behavior and his spread of misinformation about the Sandy Hook shooting.
  • Rogan expresses a complex relationship with Jones, having known him for years and considering him a friend, but ultimately distancing himself due to Jones’ actions.
  • He details Jones’ false accusations against Rogan, including claims that Rogan was pressured into avoiding certain topics and that he was working for the CIA.
  • Rogan emphasizes the importance of holding Jones accountable for his actions and the harm he has caused, while also acknowledging the potential for redemption and personal growth.

10. The Challenge of Truth and Deception:

  • The podcast delves into the challenges of discerning truth from misinformation in a digital age, particularly in the context of conspiracy theories and sensationalized news.
  • Rogan highlights the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking, while acknowledging the difficulty of separating truth from falsehood in a world where information is readily available.
  • He discusses the dangers of relying solely on social media for information, particularly when it comes to sensitive issues.
  • The conversation explores the potential for social media to be manipulated for political purposes and the role of influencers in shaping public opinion.

11. The Ethics of Social Media Moderation:

  • Rogan delves into the ethics of social media moderation, questioning the criteria used to determine which content is acceptable and which is not.
  • He expresses concern about the lack of transparency and accountability in the decision-making process, particularly when it comes to banning individuals or suppressing content.
  • The conversation touches upon the potential for bias and the need for more diverse perspectives in social media moderation.
  • Rogan advocates for a more open and democratic system of social media governance, where users have a greater say in the content they see and the rules that govern the platform.

12. The Potential for Redemption:

  • The discussion touches upon the importance of redemption and the possibility of individuals changing their behavior and beliefs.
  • Rogan cites the example of Christian Picolini, a former white supremacist who underwent a radical transformation, highlighting the potential for growth and change even in individuals who have committed serious wrongs.
  • He questions whether individuals who have been banned from social media platforms should have a path to redemption, particularly if they have demonstrably changed their behavior.
  • The conversation explores the complexities of forgiveness and the need for a more nuanced understanding of human behavior and the potential for growth.

13. The Future of Technology and Transportation:

  • The conversation shifts to the future of technology, with Rogan expressing excitement about advancements in virtual reality and electric vehicles.
  • He describes his own experiences with VR games and how they have become increasingly immersive and realistic, potentially offering new ways to experience entertainment and even training.
  • Rogan discusses the potential for VR to transform various industries, including gaming, sports, and even education.
  • He expresses enthusiasm for electric vehicles, highlighting the performance and environmental benefits of Tesla vehicles and other emerging electric car manufacturers.

14. The Impact of Elon Musk and SpaceX:

  • The podcast features a discussion of Elon Musk’s visionary work with SpaceX, with Rogan emphasizing Musk’s genius and his impact on the space exploration industry.
  • Rogan highlights the ambitious goals of SpaceX, particularly the development of reusable rockets and the potential for human colonization of Mars.
  • He acknowledges the challenges of Musk’s endeavors, particularly the failures and setbacks that are inevitable in pioneering new technologies.
  • The conversation underscores Musk’s influence on popular culture and the broader societal impact of his innovative ventures.

15. The Ever-Changing World of Social Media:

  • The episode concludes with a reflection on the ever-evolving nature of social media, with Rogan acknowledging its both positive and negative impacts on society.
  • He acknowledges the potential for social media to connect people, share ideas, and facilitate social movements, but also recognizes its capacity for division, misinformation, and manipulation.
  • Rogan expresses a sense of hope for the future of social media, believing that through open dialogue and critical thinking, users can navigate the complexities of the platform and use it for good.
  • The conversation leaves listeners with a sense of uncertainty about the future of social media, but also a sense of optimism that through collective effort, users can build a more equitable and just online environment.

5 Memorable Quotes:

  • “People that still play that game must be insane. Oh my god. I don’t wanna be anyone near us.” – Rogan’s humorous expression of awe at the dedication of those who continue to play Quake at a high level.
  • “I just think he’s in a crazy unmanageable situation to be running something like Twitter.” – Rogan’s assessment of the challenges facing Jack Dorsey as CEO of Twitter.
  • “It’s not beneficial to anybody to generalize. This is what we gotta get in our head.” – Rogan’s passionate plea for treating individuals as individuals, rejecting generalizations based on race or any other group affiliation.
  • “You’re not allowed to do that, but we let people do that if they’re a part of a marginalized class.” – Rogan’s pointed observation about the double standards that can exist in social media discourse.
  • “It’s just not on our wheelhouse. We would never make a fucking electric car. We never make one of those things.” – Rogan’s humorous acknowledgment of Elon Musk’s genius and the sheer audacity of his ventures.