In this episode of the UK Desk Arts Express, host Jack Clarke delves into the intriguing world of digital capitalism and cultural critique with author Mike Watson. Clarke engages Watson in a lively discussion about his provocative new book, Hungry Ghosts in the Machine. Watson explores the metaphor of the Tibetan Buddhist hungry ghost to shed light on modern anxieties and compulsions shaped by digital culture.

The conversation touches on the parallels between Theodor Adorno's critique of popular culture and today’s digital media landscape, and how the "Barbenheimer" phenomenon mirrors our collective existential fears. Clarke and Watson also dissect how capitalist commodification impacts our spiritual pursuits, and the potential for technology to both trap and liberate us. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of these pressing issues.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of the UK Desk for Arts Express, airing on September 4th, 2024, host Jack Clarke sits down with Dr. Matthew Alford, co-producer of the groundbreaking documentary Theatres of War (2022), to explore the controversial intersection of military recruitment and video games. As a continuation of their ongoing collaboration, Clarke and Alford investigate how the U.S. military and intelligence agencies have used video games to shape public perception and recruit young players. From early flight simulators to today’s hyper-realistic military-themed games, they discuss the ethical concerns, political impacts, and hidden agendas behind this digital strategy. With the recent release of the Black Ops 6trailer, which taps into themes of government manipulation, this conversation is as relevant as ever. Don’t miss this deep dive into the gamification of military influence.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.