Words & Numbers Episode 491: Redistrict This!
Jan 22, 2026
Explore the blurred lines of AI as it aids in troubleshooting while raising concerns about deepfakes and image ownership. Debate the Smithsonian's controversial removal of Trump’s impeachment mention and delve into the complexities of gerrymandering and political representation. Examine the urban-rural divide in politics, the ongoing challenges of census accuracy, and the implications of election denial. Finally, consider the rising political tensions and economic anxieties shaping American society.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Using AI To Fix A Failing Hard Drive
- Antony Davies used AI (ChatGPT) with photos to troubleshoot and replace a failing hard drive in his computer.
- The AI correctly identified parts after he uploaded pictures and guided him step-by-step to a successful repair.
Image Ownership Meets AI Guardrails
- AI image tools are forcing a rethinking of name, image, and likeness as a property right.
- Grok's guardrails (e.g., refusing to generate explicit edits) suggest platforms will shape norms before courts do.
Testing Grok's Image Limits
- James Harrigan tested Grok by asking for shirtless images of Antony Davies and Grok refused to produce realistic edits.
- The interlude showed platforms may already block some misuse even for simple requests.