Scientology – is it a religion, spiritual group, business organization? The group was created in the 1950’s and is headquartered in Los Angeles. There’s been much mixed media coverage about Scientology, but, still, most people know little about the claimed religion. We speak with a former member about her involvement and the people who commit their faith, time and money to Scientology.
20-30 Segment 1: A Shift Towards Sustainable Construction & Design
Glass, wood, stone. These are some of the natural materials that are on the forefront of construction. Today, a greater number of architects and developers are not only thinking about profit and supply, but the additional - sometimes invisible - factors at play when it comes to new buildouts. These include the true benefits to humans, the environmental toll and the most practical designs that are symbiotic with nature. We uncover the modern perspective of ‘conscious construction’ this week on Viewpoints.
Culture Crash: Film Highlights So Far In 2020
This year has forced the film industry – like many other industries – to adapt and do things a little differently. This means a new resurgence of drive-in theatres or the option to buy new releases straight from your home TV. We go through some of our favorite films and upcoming releases set for fall.
20-29 Segment 1: The Many Faces Of Homelessness
On a single night in the U.S. there are more than 550,000 people homeless – and this number is only set to rise as COVID-19 has put millions out of work and shattered the stability of the U.S. economy. As a child or teen who has to deal with homelessness at a young age, it can be a tough road of shifting from temporary housing to another shelter. Giselle Burgess and her five kids were in this position in New York City, so Burgess decided to start a Girl Scout Troop named Troop 6000 to help her girls and others in this situation. We cover the inspiring story of Troop 6000 this week on Viewpoints.
Culture Crash: The Latest Blockbuster From Christopher Nolan
Tenet, the newest movie from acclaimed director Christopher Nolan, is set to release next month. We take a look back at some of Nolan’s biggest film triumphs including the star-filled thriller, Inception.
20-29 Segment 2: The World Of Cults
When you think of a cult, what image pops into your head? Is it one of violence or extremism? Is it people in all white praying and worshipping a guru? What exactly defines a cult? We answer these questions and more this week on Viewpoints.
20-28 Segment 1: Poker: A Game Of Skill & Luck
Texas Hold ‘Em is the most popular poker game in the U.S. today. It’s a game of strategy, psychology and quick decision-making. Writer and professional poker player Maria Konnikova joins Viewpoints’ to share how she was able to use her background to master the game and amass more than $300,000 in winnings in just three years.
20-28 Segment 2: The Business Of Lab-Grown Meat
Millions of Americans have embraced plant-based meat like the Impossible Burger, but how do you feel about real meat that’s grown in a petri dish in a lab? If the taste, texture and smell exactly resembled meat that was traditionally farmed outside, would you eat it? Lab-grown, cell-cultured chicken, beef and pork is set to hit the mass market in just a few years. What’s the science and process behind this new technology?
Culture Crash: The Passing of Director Joel Schumacher
Prominent Hollywood director Joel Schumacher died on June 22, 2020 at the age of 80. We discuss his legacy and some of the films he’s best remembered for.
20-27 Segment 1: The Good And The Bad: A Brief History Of The Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers (no, not the baseball team) but the western law enforcement agency dating back to 1823 is known for patrolling the rugged Texas terrain. For almost 200 years, its members have protected tiny towns along the border and have helped solve numerous crimes and corruption throughout the state. However, the valiant group also has a darker history filled with corruption, murder and violence against minorities. Author and journalist Doug Swanson joins Viewpoints this week to share the full picture of the famed Texas Rangers.
20-27 Segment 2: Is Instagram The New Online Diary For Generation Z?
While some of us still prefer pen and paper, many younger people are shifting to everything digital. And it’s not just for to-do lists or communication, but also using platforms like Instagram, Twitter or Facebook as a daily, reflective ‘online diary’. However, sometimes this vulnerability in such a public setting can lead down a slippery slope. We discuss the pros and cons of candidly sharing your life on social media.
Culture Crash: Rewinding Back To Our Highschool Selves
There’s a certain amount of nostalgia when we revisit our favorite music, show and movies from those young, teenage years. This week on Viewpoints we discuss how many Americans cling to the hot pop culture of their generation.
