On Critic Proof, Alyssa talks to Marc about his article on the possible end of blogging. They compare their respective experiences with the medium, focusing on the unique relationship blogging creates with readers. Is blogging a sustainable profession, or does it inevitably produce burnout? And is it especially hazardous for women? Turning to the NBA, they discuss Jason Collins’s decision to come out of the closet. Why has it taken so long for professional sports to catch up to the rest of the culture?
On Adamize, Adam and Daveed explore whether it’s too early to decisively determine motive in the Boston bombings. They debate whether “religion” can be the motive for violent acts, or whether it’s really “religious identity politics.” Daveed acknowledges that discourse on religion and terrorism is often ugly, but argues that trying too hard to be politically correct stifles real conversation on the subject. They examine the roles of theology vs. structural factors in the behavior of believers. With reference to Malcolm X, Scientology, and Ayaan Hirsi Ali, they discuss whether there’s a double standard towards certain religions. Daveed and Adam agree that, for all its mistakes, the media has done a relatively responsible job covering the bombings—whereas much of the commentariat has gone off the rails.
On a special all-conservative edition of The DMZ, Matt talks to Justin about the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and his theory that the geeks have inherited the earth. They next turn to conservative attacks on Marco Rubio over his immigration reform bill. They delve into the weeds of the bill and debate whether the GOP should support amnesty for immigrants. Turning to the Boston Marathon bombings, were the Tsarnaevs motivated by radical Islam, or were they just angry young men? Plus: Ronald Reagan’s legacy.