PODCAST:Slate Technology
TITLE:ICYMI: Outward: PragerU’s Transphobic Twitter Takeover
DATE:2023-12-30 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
The Slate Technology podcast episode titled "ICYMI Outward PragerU’s Transphobic Twitter Takeover" discusses Prager University's (PragerU) advertising campaign for their documentary "Detrans: The Dangers of Gender Affirming Care" on Twitter, now referred to as "X" in the podcast. Hosted by Candice Limb, the episode features a discussion from Slate's Outward Podcast team, including Brian Lauter, Jules Gil-Peterson, and Christina Cauterucci, along with NBC reporter Joe Yercaba.
The episode delves into the specifics of PragerU's ad campaign on Twitter, focusing on the promotion of their documentary, which discusses the stories of individuals who have detransitioned. PragerU, a conservative advocacy group, spent a significant amount on the Twitter ad campaign as part of their broader marketing strategy. The documentary mainly features stories of detransitioners who began their transitions as adults, but this aspect is downplayed or omitted in the film, creating a misleading narrative about gender-affirming care for minors.
Joe Yercaba provides insight into the mechanics of the ad campaign, noting that despite YouTube's refusal to give the documentary a prominent placement, Twitter allowed it significant visibility. The episode critiques the documentary for being one-sided, lacking medical expert opinions, and misrepresenting the subjects' ages during their transition. The discussion also touches on the broader context of anti-trans sentiments and the spread of misinformation in the media.
The podcast further explores the changes in Twitter's policies and atmosphere under Elon Musk's ownership. Musk's stance as a "free speech absolutist" and his history of sharing anti-trans content have contributed to a platform increasingly hospitable to such narratives. The episode raises concerns about the ethical responsibilities of social media platforms and the potential influence of such content on public opinion and legislation.
Overall, the podcast episode critically examines PragerU's documentary and its promotion on Twitter, contextualizing it within the larger landscape of anti-trans advocacy and the evolving dynamics of social media platforms under new leadership.
