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Who Would Win: Justice League vs Avengers – The Other Identity Podcast – wmmr.com

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

The dynamic duo of Robbie Landis and Ben Morse is back once again for another episode of the Other Identity. The Other Identity is a podcast about exploring the culture created by comic books. This week Robbie and Ben are joined by Kevin once more for a different kind of episode. This week we pit the Justice League Vs the Avengers.

Its a question as old as comic books themselves. Who would win a fight against the two greatest teams the world of nerds has ever known. The real answer is probably that they wouldnt fightbut both movies, comics and TV shows have given us interesting reasons why some caped crusaders might duke it out. In order to facilitate the discussion the Ben stepped back and served as the intermediary of the debate. Robbie would take the Avengers and Kevin the Justice League. Prior to the show both Robbie and Kevin submitted a 7 member roster of former Avenger and Justice League members. Ben was in charged matching up the two rosters to form interesting duels and it was then on Robbie and Kevin to debate who would win each.

The match-ups werent as straight forward as you might think, with the first bout against the son of the Magneto, Quicksilver, and the Justice Leagues tech-infused Cyborg. Ben didnt make any decisions on who the winners were based on the arguments. Thats up to you, the listeners. Listen to the episode and decide for yourself who you think won the most matches. In the Justice League v Avengers, who would come out on top? If you leave us your reasoning, based on the episode or your own reasoning, we might even read it on one of our shows. Below are the full match-ups you can expect in this episode of The Other Identity.

Robbies 7 Avengers: Quicksilver, Captain Marvel, Iron Man, The Hulk, Scarlet Witch, The Vision and Thor.

Kevins 7 Justice League Members: Cyborg, The Flash, The Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Superman, The Martian Manhunter, and Batman.

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Who Would Win: Justice League vs Avengers - The Other Identity Podcast - wmmr.com

The trick that allows you to send audios on WhatsApp with the voice of Darth Vader – InTallaght

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

This is how you can send the darkest audios to your best friends. Follow this trick to send audios on WhatsApp with the voice of Darth Vader.

If we already love to send voice messages via WhatsApp because of the way they facilitate communication, with thistrick to send audios with the voice of Darth Vaderyou will be doubly excited.

Star Wars is probably one of the sagas with the most followers in the world since from its origins they surprised the audience with their unusual space themes.Since it emerged, Darth Vader, that dark, long-cloaked and dark voice character, has become one of our favourite villains and hundreds of ideas have emerged from it. One of those many ideas is the audios that you can now send via WhatsApp, with their tone of voice, regardless of whether yours is sweet or not at all similar.

Activating this hidden method is actually very simple, all you need is to have a smartphone withan Android operating system.

Stay entertained and play with the other options that theVoice Changer with effects offers because if you are not convinced of wanting to send such dark messages using unlimited WhatsApp included with yourTelcel MaxUnlimitedPlan, you can choose to sound like a zombie, a squirrel, a submarine, a duck, low battery, alien and many more.

So far the application is only available on Google Play, but in your App Store you can find other similar ones that do practically the same thing, you can try Voice Modifier and continue exploring connected to#LaRedDeTusEmociones.

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The trick that allows you to send audios on WhatsApp with the voice of Darth Vader - InTallaght

Buying tech stocks is the most crowded trade in history. – The New York Times

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

For the past 25 years, Bank of America has surveyed fund managers about how they are positioning their portfolios. When a consensus emerges, the banks pollsters say, investors generally profit by betting against it, according to todays DealBook newsletter.

In its latest survey, which polled investors managing around $600 billion in assets, nearly three-quarters of fund managers agreed that holding big U.S. tech stocks was the most crowded trade in the market. It was the surveys strongest ever consensus, leading the bank to dub buying tech stocks the longest long of all-time. For contrarians, thats a sign that its time to sell.

Tech giants dominance is a risk to long-term returns, Goldman Sachs analysts wrote in a new research note. The five largest stocks in the S&P 500 index Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Microsoft now account for 23 percent of its market cap. We believe further equity upside would require participation from a broader subset of the index, the analysts said.

And for what its worth, the Goldman analysts concluded that the S&P 500 will generate a 6 percent annual return over the next decade, versus nearly 14 percent over the past decade and 10 percent since 1960.

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Buying tech stocks is the most crowded trade in history. - The New York Times

IBM Q2 earnings preview: can the tech giants cloud revenue keep growing? – IG Bank

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

When is IBM set to report their next set of results?

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) is set to report their second quarter FY20 results next Monday, 20 July.

Heading into IBM's second quarter results release, analysts remain mixed on the tech giant, with the stock commanding a Hold rating on average, according to MarketWatch.

That view looks well reflected in the average analyst price target on IBM which currently stands at US$129.00 per share implying some upside potential from current price levels, also according to MarketWatch.

This comes after IBM delivered a middling set of results in the first quarter, as overall revenue, net income and earnings per share (EPS) all declined. Specifically, the company saw its Q1 revenue fall by 3.4% to US$17.6 billion, while operating (non-GAAP) diluted earnings per share and net income both came in 18% lower at US$1.84 per share and US$1.6 billion, respectively.

Mind you, while the Groups sales and earnings fell overall during the last quarter, IBMs cloud division proved resilient, posting strong growth in spite of the challenging operating environment, with total cloud revenue rising 19% to US$5.4 billion.

Red Hat which IBM acquired for US$34 billion in 2019 also continued to grow at a solid rate in Q1, with revenue rising 18%.

Following this robust showing in the first quarter, IBMs Cloud & Cognitive Software business segment will likely be closely watched by investors during the upcoming earnings release.

Our first-quarter performance in cloud is a reflection of the trust clients place in IBM's technology and expertise today, and positions us to continue building an enduring hybrid cloud platform for the future, said IBM's Chief Executive, Arvind Krishna.

While IBM continues to struggle with growth, the company maintained strong margins during the prior quarter a trend investors will likely be keen to see remain in tact as we head into the Q2. Here, IBM's gross profit margins for its Cloud & Cognitive Software business hit 75.4%, while its Global Technology Services gross margins reached 34.0%. Overall, gross profit margins remained steady in the first quarter at 45.1%.

Unsurprisingly, as part of the Q1, IBMs management withdrew its full-year guidance as a result of elevated levels of uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Even so, it was flagged that the company would reassess this position based on the clarity of the macroeconomic recovery at the end of the second quarter.

Finally, while IBM has seen its share price trade well off the lows it recorded in March rising close to 30% in that period the stock's longer-term trend remains a negative one.

Indeed, in the last six months IBMs stock is down ~10% and in the last five years the tech stock is down close to 30%.

IBM last traded at US$123.00 per share.

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IBM Q2 earnings preview: can the tech giants cloud revenue keep growing? - IG Bank

The Air Jordan 1 Mid Tweaks UNION Color Blocking With Suede Panels And Purple Accents – Sneaker News

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

These past few months, the Air Jordan 1 Mid has opted for colorways far more reserved than usual. But while lacking in color, these offerings make up with inspiration as most highlight connections to UNION LA or even the brands large roster of OGs. This latest, though still quite unique in certain aspects, is certainly no exception its blocking reminiscent of the Black Toe before it. But where red would usually like, a sultry purple takes its place in a textural suede fabric, one thats used along the eye stay, vamp, and toe cap alongside. White leathers dress underneath as per normal, hitting the ankle flaps which run with complementary Wings insignia. Grab a detailed look at these here and expect to learn more about their Nike.com release soon.

In other news, the Off-White Air Jordan 4 releases July 25th.

Make sure to follow @kicksfinder for live tweets during the release date.

Where to Buy

Photos: @sneakerjamz

Jordan Brands Latest Lifestyle Shoe Will Come Packaged In a Hard Case – Footwear News

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Jordan Brand will soon introduce a new sneaker from its lifestyle division known as Jordan AJNT23.

Having already released overseas, the basketball-focused brand has once again tapped legendary designer Tinker Hatfield to design its latest model. According to its product description, the shoe features a high-tech one-pull system that fastens both the knobs and the strap seen across the breathable black nylon upper. Elevating the look are gold accents including the Jumpman embroidery and hardware found on the tip of the aforementioned strap. The look is completed with a white foam midsole and a speckled translucent outsole.

The Air Jordan AJNT23.

CREDIT: Nike

The lateral side of the Air Jordan AJNT23.

CREDIT: Nike

The medial side of the Air Jordan AJNT23.

CREDIT: Nike

Aside from the sneakers, the product images reveal that the shoe will come packaged with a Jordan-branded metal case. This isnt the first time that the brand released sneakers in protective cases. When the Air Jordan 17 debuted in 2002, the shoe was bundled with a metal carrying case and came with a $200 price tag, which was the most expensive Air Jordans to ever hit shelves at that time.

A top view of the Air Jordan AJNT23.

CREDIT: Nike

The heel of the Air Jordan AJNT23.

The outsole of the Air Jordan AJNT23.

CREDIT: Nike

The Jordan AJNT23 in its metal case.

CREDIT: Nike

The metal case of the Jordan AJNT23.

CREDIT: Nike

At the time of press, Jordan Brand has yet to announce the release information surrounding the Jordan AJNT23 but its expected to drop on Nike.com and at select Jordan Brand retailers.

In related Air Jordan news, readers will be able to buy the latest Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Smoke Grey starting tomorrow. It will launch on the SNKRS app and at select retailers for $170.

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Jordan Brands Latest Lifestyle Shoe Will Come Packaged In a Hard Case - Footwear News

What lies ahead as Jordan faces the fallout of COVID-19 – Atlantic Council

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Tue, Jul 14, 2020

MENASourcebyEmily Santucci

A teacher wearing a protective suit checks the temperature of a child at a nursery after the government eased the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions in Amman, Jordan June 8, 2020. REUTERS/Muhammad Hamed

On June 28, Jordans Health Minister, Dr. Saad Jaber, boldly declared that the coronavirus had dried up and died in Jordan. Dr. Jaber backtracked days later by renewing calls to adhere to necessary safety measures. Amid fears of a second wave, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan continues to stand out among its neighbors, as it exhibits an impressively low rate of infections. Jordanmade up of nearly 10 million peoplerecorded just over one thousand COVID-19 cases and nine deaths since reports surfaced back in early March.

What makes Ammans handling of the coronavirus pandemic unique lies less in the specific measures imposed, but more so in the swift and aggressive fashion by which they were carried out. Data compiled by Oxford Universitys Blavatnik School of Government rendered the level of severity in Jordans governmental response to the pandemic, or its stringency index, increased from 80 percent to 100 percent during mid-to-late March. In comparison, scores for bordering Iraq and Lebanon floated around 80 percent.

Jordans King Abdullah II spared no time in reacting to and preventing the rapid spread of the virus, a devastation that would have overwhelmed the countrys health services. On March 17, with slightly over thirty confirmed cases, King Abdullah issued a royal decree that activated the Kingdoms 1992 Defense Law. Article 2 of the law grants sweeping powers to the prime minister during exceptional circumstances that would threaten the national security or public safety in all parts of the Kingdom. To address concerns over abuse of power, Jordans Prime Minister Omar al-Razzaz assured the Jordanian public that the law would be implemented in the narrowest extent possible as he enforced a state of emergency.

On the ground, strict lockdown measures translated to daily street patrols, mandatory curfews, and the forced shuttering of businesses and restaurants across Jordan. By March 19, the Jordanian Armed Forces sealed the capital city of Ammancomprised of over four million residentsand prohibited movement between governorates. Soon after, international travel was suspended, returning Jordanians from abroad were quarantined, schools and universities were closed, and public worship at mosques was banned. The government went so far as to offer citizens doorstep delivery of essential goods and sent truckloads of subsidized bread to distribute throughout different Amman municipalities.

At the beginning of May, Iraq and Lebanon registered over two thousand and seven hundred confirmed cases, respectively, with over one hundred combined deaths, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In contrast, the Kingdom witnessed five hundred cases and eight deaths. Keeping early evening curfews in place, the government slowly eased restrictions in specific governorates across the country. By June 6, the majority of businesses reopened alongside restaurants and mosques, signaling a major step toward Jordans return to normalcy.

Public trust in the government is positive, for now

Despite the disruptions to Jordanian life, the pandemic has presented an unlikely opportunity for the government to prove itself in re-capturing public trust. In the eyes of Jordanians, the governments approach has generally been perceived positively. A survey conducted by the University of Jordans Strategic Studies Centre on June 24 showed that 92 percent of Jordanians considered the government to have been successful in controlling the pandemic. However, it remains to be seen how the response to the pandemic will improve or sour the relationship between the government and its citizens in the long run. For now, Jordan appears to have salvaged some of its image with the quality of its response, according to Abul-Wahab Kayyali, a research associate at Arab Barometer.

Jordans approach to flatten the curve is a short-term solution. Safeguarding public health has adversely affected its already fragile economy and has disproportionately impacted the livelihoods of the most vulnerable. Such challenges will likely turn public opinion negative and fuel new waves of discontent, as previously seen in the austerity protests of 2018 and recent teachers protests of 2019.

The economic outlook is dismal

The hard road to economic recovery is, perhaps, the principal hurdle to enabling the structural reforms necessary to counter subdued economic growth. In April, the World Bank forecasted the economy to shrink to negative 3.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 due to a significant downturn in both global and domestic demand. Jordans travel and tourism sectorconstituting 13.8 percent of GDPsaw a 56.5 percent drop in revenues in the month of March. As international travel remains constrained, the sector is projected to be the last to recover according to Tourism and Antiquities Minister, Majd Sweikeh. Labor force participation rates will also continue on a downward trajectory, coinciding with a sharp climb in unemployment, which stood at 19 percent before the pandemic. Furthermore, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries experiencing similar weak prospects for growth will cause lower foreign direct investment and reduced remittance flows. These combined factors will weigh substantially on Jordans economic outlook and further strain public debt at $42 billionabout ninety-seven percent of GDP.

Finance Minister Mohammad Al-Ississ announced that government revenue decreased by $849 million within the first four months of the year, increasing the likelihood of a higher-than-anticipated budget deficit for 2020. Al-Ississ also expects Jordans economy to contract by 3.4 percent, slightly below previous calculations. Our tough measures were painful but important admitted the minister, but Jordan must confront an economic war against the virus moving forward.

In a move that appeared to soften the blow of the pandemic for employers in the most affected sectors, PM Al-Razzaz amended Defense Order 6, permitting employers to cut workers salaries by up to 30 percent in the months of May and June. Khaled al-Zubaidi, a contributing writer for Ad-Dustour Daily, argued that the decision hurt hundreds of thousands of employees who were already struggling to meet their financial obligations. He also warned that slashing salaries would generate significant living and social pressures.

Jordan secured extra lending from international financial institutions to buffer against the unexpected shocks of the pandemic. The International Monetary Funds (IMF) $1.3 billion extended facility fund program with Amman, which was originally negotiated prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, was adjusted in March to support necessary emergency spending. Later in May, the IMF approved Jordans request for $396 million worth of emergency assistance under the funds Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI).

The added external financing measures are instrumental for Jordans medium-term stability. Nevertheless, to set up for long-term sustainability, Amman must strike a balance between public safety and reviving the economy in order to honor both internal and international obligations. If unsuccessful, the government may face a complete overhaul of its unraveling social contract, forced by the hands of those who face the brunt of the economic pain.

The livelihoods of the most vulnerable remain unprotected

Jordan holds the position as the second largest host of externally displaced peoples per capita in the world. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), there are approximately 657,287 registered Syrian refugees who reside in Jordan. Of these, over 13 percent make up the countrys population, with 84 percent living in urban areas. Recognizing its distinct demographic challenges, Jordan is figuring out the best ways to ensure an inclusive socio-economic framework with support from external donors.

On June 11, the World Bank approved a $100 million financial assistance package aimed at creating jobs and enhancing work conditions for both Jordanians and refugees. Saroj Kumar Jha, World Bank Mashreq Regional Director, deemed that the project will contribute to improving the living conditions, economic prospects, and resilience of Jordanian host communities and Syrian refugees.

The new commitment by the World Bank echoes past initiatives that targeted the incorporation of non-Jordanians and refugees, many of whom are stuck in the informal sector, into a more formalized labor market. Despite government promises to guarantee two hundred thousand work permits for refugees, as outlined in the London Initiatives Jordan Compact of 2016, only 138,000 have obtained work permits in 2019 based on recent UNHCR reports. Cindy Huang, a non-resident fellow at the Center for Global Development, prescribes that the next phase of the Compact should enable a more competitive business environment, while eliminating barriers to job accessibility and expanding womens workforce participation.

The World Bank predicts that the human capital gain from providing adequate social safety nets could add 0.4 percent to GDP growth in Jordan. Refocusing reforms to protect the Kingdoms refugee populations and corresponding host communities serve as a key to unlock greater potential that will stimulate the kind of economic growth Finance Minister Al-Ississ and others envisage.

Jordans resiliency will continue to be tested in 2020 and beyond

Looking ahead, the most immediate challengeapart from Jordans domestic strugglesinclude the impending Israeli annexation of the West Bank. King Abdullahs vocal and staunch opposition may drive a wedge between Jordans relationship with the United Statesone which the Kingdom benefits substantially from. Therefore, the current climate is of great political hazard for Jordan, who received $1.3 billion worth of aid from the United States in 2019. Bruce Reidel, a senior fellow at Brookings, reasons that Jordan cannot risk jeopardizing foreign aid in the midst of the pandemic and the associated economic crisis.

Facing a triple crisispublic health, economic, and socialthe primary question will be if the government can assuage the fallout of COVID-19. The muddled mix of uncertain regional geopolitical dynamics on top of mounting internal demands will force Jordan to re-calculate its policy orientation. Amman has proven its resiliency over the years, however, only time will determine if the country can live up to expectations and deliver on its promises.

Emily Santucci is an intern with the Atlantic Councils Rafik Hariri Center for the Middle East.

Fri, Mar 27, 2020

As the countries across the world attempt to grapple with the unfolding pandemic, there is a real risk of overlooking the situation of refugees, who due to their living conditions are among the most vulnerable to a serious outbreak. The pandemic comes at a particularly precarious time as the future of Idlib and the EU-Turkey migration deal are in doubt.

MENASourcebyPnar Dost

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What lies ahead as Jordan faces the fallout of COVID-19 - Atlantic Council

Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf thinks Michael Jordan would have made it to the MLB – Yardbarker

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Could Michael Jordan have made it to the majors if he had stuck with baseball? It's one of the great unanswerable questions of Jordan's career, as fans and experts have long debated whether or not the greatest basketball player ever had what it took to make it in the MLB. Jerry Reinsdorf, who owns the Bulls and the White Sox, believes that Jordan could have made it in baseball if he had not quit.

"Yes, I really do (think so),'' Reinsdorf said. "Maybe as an extra outfielder. Look at what he accomplished."

Jordan's time in the minor leagues is often seen as a low point in his otherwise prolific career, but many say that Jordan did pretty well considering he was 34 years old and hadn't really played baseball since high school.

Jordan played 127 games for the Birmingham Barons, the White Soxs Double-A affiliate, and batted .202 with 3 home runs and 51 RBI. Not exactly Hall of Fame numbers, but his old teammates have typically agreed with Reinsdorf, saying Jordan would probably have reached the MLB had he played long enough.

"Being with him on a daily basis for six months, and knowing how much work he was putting into it," reliever Barry Johnson said, "I don't think it's that big of a stretch to see him in a big-league uniform."

Instead, Jordan ended up quitting baseball and rejoining the Bulls, eventually leading the team to another three championships. It's tough to argue that he didn't make the right decision, but that does not mean we won't keep speculating about what Jordan's MLB career would have looked like.

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Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf thinks Michael Jordan would have made it to the MLB - Yardbarker

Michael B. Jordan wants you to view a drive-in movie, on him – The Detroit News

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Gary Gerard Hamilton, Associated Press Published 9:27 p.m. ET July 14, 2020 | Updated 9:27 p.m. ET July 14, 2020

New York For Michael B. Jordan, timing is everything. So when the SAG award winner marched in a Los Angeles Black Lives Matter protest last month demanding that Hollywood drastically increase its diversity in the executive ranks, it was a moment he felt prepared for.

I think its always been brewing in me, but I think timing is everything, you know? I mean, who knew that we was going to be in this pandemic? And on the heels of that, another senseless murder by law enforcement, said the 33-year-old Just Mercy star. Ive always chosen to be very strategic in wanting to speak when it really makes an impact and really mattersAnd I want to work and evolve and grow with people who feel that same sense of urgency.

Actor Michael B. Jordan has partnered with Amazon Studios for "A Night at the Drive-In" that will bring diverse films to drive-in theaters for free screenings.(Photo: Chris Pizzello, Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)

Jordan, whose breakout Fruitvale Station role followed the events of a young Black man killed by an Oakland transit police officer, channeled the urgency for change and healing into A Night at the Drive-In. The goal is to celebrate multi-cultural and diverse voices in cinema, in hopes of ultimately bringing together communities. Jordan and his Outlier Society production company who hand-picked the movies is partnering with Amazon Studios.

Films show every other Wednesday through Aug. 26 and include blockbusters such as Crazy Rich Asians and Jordans own Black Panther, along with classics like Do the Right Thing and Coming to America.

The screenings will show in 20 cities, including the Ford Drive-In in Dearborn.

Attendance is free, with most moviegoers chosen by local community organizations and nonprofits. The initiative is also raising voter registration awareness.

We wanted to find a way for us to (show) stories that fed our soul, that inspired us, that made us laugh, Jordan said. We wanted to give people an opportunity to find relatability through cinema, and we were able to put together a pretty eclectic list of some old favorites and some newer films that kind of checked off all those boxes.

Outlier Society and Amazon Studios also partnered with Path Water, Pipcorn Popcorn and Partake Cookies all owned by people of color to provide free refreshments during the double- feature programs.

Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon Studios, said the partnership falls into the companys efforts to support social justice initiatives.

Going through the conversations around supporting Black Lives Matter and changing the carousels on (Amazon Prime Video), all of that was never done as a, OK, We better do these things out of a reactive we want to keep up with the guys or gals down the street, Salke said. It really was a point of pride for the company to be able to say, We care deeply about this.

As the Black Lives Matter slogan has pirouetted in American from divisiveness just a few years ago to wide acceptance, theres been criticism that many major brands and corporations are only now supporting the movement for optics with no real plans to advocate for diversity, even within their own walls. But Salke says her group is planning beyond the present.

Once the protests are over, all that energy going into all of that has to go into holding ourselves accountable and holding our teams and everyone else accountable. And weve talked about that in terms of every aspect of our business, she said. The good intention period is over And we are going to make sure that those checks and balances exist.

Jordan, who says he cant remember ever staying home this long as Hollywood remains mostly dark because of the COVID-19 shutdown, remains committed to holding the film and TV industry to the fire on diversity. But his macro goal is to see change reflected in all aspects of society.

Jordan and Jamie Foxx starred in last years Just Mercy, the first major studio project made with the inclusion rider, the contractual provision mandating the consideration of people from underrepresented groups for cast and crew positions. The rider was initiated as a way to change long-term under-representation of people of color and women in Hollywood.

What were doing right now while we have the energy and the momentum, lets continue to keep the conversation pushing forward, Jordan said. Lets address the disease, not just the symptoms.

Read or Share this story: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/movies/2020/07/14/michael-jordan-wants-view-drive-movie/112241958/

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Michael B. Jordan wants you to view a drive-in movie, on him - The Detroit News

Terry Rozier: I didnt know Michael Jordans Bulls three-peated twice until watching The Last Dance – Yahoo Sports

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Michael Jordan led the Bulls to championships in 1991, 1992 and 1993. Terry Rozier who now plays for the Jordan-owned Hornets was born in 1994. Jordan led the Bulls to championships in 1996, 1997 and 1998.

Like many younger people, Rozier gained new perspective by watching The Last Dance.

Rozier, via Jonathan Abrams of Bleacher Report:

Just actually seeing this documentary, I learned so much, he said. I didnt even know that they won three straight [championships two times]. Im just being honest. To do things like that in this league, you have to be super special.

Rozier previously said Jordan was the reason he chose Charlotte in free agency. And to not know even this?

Whatever else you think about Rozier, I respect this admission. It takes guts to be this embarrassingly honest.

Terry Rozier: I didnt know Michael Jordans Bulls three-peated twice until watching The Last Dance originally appeared on NBCSports.com

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Terry Rozier: I didnt know Michael Jordans Bulls three-peated twice until watching The Last Dance - Yahoo Sports

GOAT of GOATs Elite 8: Who is the Greatest Athlete Of All Time? Vote now – Yahoo Sports

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Who is the GOAT of GOATs? The greatest of the greatests? An answer to the question: Who is the greatest athlete of all time?

Well, were asking you to vote.

When you do, keep this in mind: Its impossible to compare players of different sports. Babe Ruth vs. Michael Jordan is an unanswerable argument. What we can attempt to determine is this: Who dominated their competition the most?

We seeded 16 athletes from 16 different sports based on your votes of who is the GOAT of each individual sport. The vote is now down to the Elite 8. Remember, this isnt about popularity, but who dominated their sport the most. Vote now to determine who is The GOAT of GOATS.

(Amber Matsumoto/Yahoo Sports illustration)

The case for Wayne Gretzky

The Great One racked up 2,857 points in his 20-year career and would own the NHLs all-time scoring record even if you took away his career goals (894) and counted only his assists (1,963). A nine-time MVP, Gretzky was so brilliant he cast a shadow on three men who would otherwise have great NHL GOAT cases: Gordie Howe, Bobby Orr and Mario Lemieux.

Kevin Kaduk

The case for Babe Ruth

Why is Babe Ruth baseballs GOAT?Lets put it this way: For every other athlete in this series, you could say that he or she was the Babe Ruth of their sport and youd have a good case without writing another word.But since we have the space: More than eight decades after his last plate appearance, Ruth is still the career leader in two of the games most important stats: WAR (182.5 games) and OPS (1.1636). Hes third in home runs (714), second in RBI (2,214) and 10th in career batting average (.342).And if you want dominance, in 1927, Ruth hit 60 home runs more than the total posted by 12 of the 15 other teams. Also, heres what the all-time home run list looked at the end of 1935, Ruths final year: 1. Babe Ruth - 714; 2. Lou Gehrig - 378; 3. Jimmie Foxx - 302; 4. Rogers Hornsby - 300; 5. Al Simmons - 256. Oh, and he won 94 games and owned a career 2.28 ERA as a pitcher.

Kevin Kaduk

The case for Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan was so good his claim to the NBAs GOAT throne is still gaining momentum almost a quarter-century after his retirement from theChicago Bulls. The Last Dance documentary reminded us how thoroughly he eviscerated the league. Jordan went 6-for-6 when a title was on the line, winning Finals MVP each time. He added five regular-season MVPs, three more scoring titles than anyone else in history and a Defensive Player of the Year award. No amount of honors or statistics can properly calculate how much fear Jordans blend of skill, athleticism and confidence struck into opponents hearts when the game mattered most.

Ben Rohrbach

The case forTom Brady

As the MVPs, Pro Bowls, records and Super Bowl rings pile up, it becomes difficult to argue against anyone but Tom Brady as the greatest NFL player of all time. Perhaps there's some distinction to be made between "greatest player" and "greatest rsum," considering so much NFL success is based on being in the right situation (and Brady has been in an incredible one), but why belabor the point when Brady's rsum blows anyone else's away? He has more Super Bowl rings than any other player in NFL history. He won his first championship at age 24 and his latest at 41, and it's unlikely that will ever be matched. He is one of five players with at least three MVP awards, and tied for the all-time record with 14 Pro Bowls. And he's still adding to his legacy.

Frank Schwab

The case for Roger Federer

Roger Federers six-year run from 2004-09 remains unapproached in its dominance in the history of mens tennis: World No. 1 for 237 straight weeks (second best is Jimmy Connors at 160); winner of 14 of 24 Grand Slams; finalist in six others; completion of the career Grand Slam. In one stretch, he reached the finals in 10 straight Grand Slam events and in 17 of 18. That stretch alone cements him in the conversation of the greatest ever. That he accumulated a record 20 Grand Slam titles playing in the same era as Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, Nos. 2 and 3 on the Grand Slam list, only augments Federers rsum.

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Jay Hart

The case for Tiger Woods

If were talking dominance and we are then Tiger Woods stretch from 1999-2002 is without comparison. He won five of six majors, including four in a row, and seven of 11. His 82 PGA Tour wins put him in a tie for first.

Jay Busbee

The case for Muhammad Ali

No matter which version of Muhammad Ali you pick the fast, agile, almost-impossible-to-hit-boxer of his youth or the wily, gritty tough guy who returned after more than a three-year exile from his sport he has an argument as the greatest of all time in his sport. Ali won an Olympic gold medal, held the heavyweight title on three occasions, went 11-3 against opponents who wound up in the International Boxing Hall of Fame and became the biggest star the sport has ever known.

Kevin Iole

The case for Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps has deep breath won 28 Olympic medals, 10 more than anyone else; collected 23 golds, 14 more than anyone else; has the single most dominant Olympics in history, winning eight golds in 2008; has set 39 world records; set a world record at 15, won gold medals in his 30s. Oh, and he has won 20 more Olympic medals than Usain Bolt.

Pat Forde

Jordan’s Andrew Fogarty finds success on college mat – SW News Media

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

There have been a lot of Scott West wrestlers that have found success on the college mat.

For Jordans Andrew Fogarty, hes in the running to have one the best college wrestling careers of any Scott West wrestler after he wrapped up his college career this past spring.

The other Scott West wrestlers in that conversation are Pat McNamara and Micheal Kroells, who both finished their careers as three-time All-Americans.

Fogarty finished his four-year wrestling career at North Dakota State University with a career record of 96-35 (28 career pinfalls), a four-time NCAA Championships qualifier, three-time Big 12 runner-up, and with a 2020 National Wrestling Coaches Association All-America Team Honorable Mention honor.

My time at NDSU I would say was both very fast and very slow at the same time, Fogarty said. I say this because the wrestling season can be very long and grueling especially with it being about a six-month long season. The workouts were tough but you had a whole team that was doing everything with you which made it easier misery loves company.

His wrestling career didnt end on the mat as he had hoped as the COVID-19 pandemic forced the NCAA Wrestling Championships to be canceled.

It was supposed to be a crowning moment for Fogarty as the championship was scheduled to be held in front of family and Scott West fans at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

It was a disappointment at first knowing that this was supposed to be the biggest turnout for fans at a NCAA wrestling tournament and in my home state, Fogarty said. I quickly got over that since it was not my goal to wrestle in front of a lot of people. A few days later we learned that the tournament was completely canceled. For me, I did not know exactly what to think and was hard to put in words. For about the last 10 years of my life I had gotten the chance to end my wrestling season either on a high or low note. But that chance was no longer available. I couldnt really be mad at myself nor happy with myself so I simply took it for what it was worth and moved on. That was the end of my wrestling career but it wasnt the end of the school year. So I focused on finishing out the year as best I could in the classroom.

Fogarty graduated from NDSU with a bachelors degree in criminal justice and plans on enlisting in the Army this summer.

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As Fogarty looks back at his time in Fargo, North Dakota wrestling for the Bison its not the matches that hell remember but the team.

The best thing about college wrestling as with any sport I have ever played was the brotherhood you develop with your teammates, he said. There is something special and nothing I like more than being a part of a team, where I know every guy has my back and I have theirs. And when one of us falls the next guy is there to pick you and the team up.

Thats not to say he doesnt a favorite match that he looks back at fondly.

That match came in his redshirt freshman year and in the first match of the year against No. 14-ranked Iowa State and Cyclone senior Dane Pestano.

It was our first home match against Iowa State, who I believe we had never wrestled before, Fogarty said. During the third period I needed a takedown to win and ended up getting it and riding him out for my first varsity win.

Fogarty won that match 10-7 which helped the Bison upset Iowa St. 25-16.

That match would propel him to a 23-13 record that season which ended with a 1-2 record at the NCAA Wrestling Championship.

He would go on to qualify for the NCAA Championships the next three years to wrap up a great career at NDSU.

My senior season was by far my favorite season of college wrestling, Fogarty said. Mostly because I was a senior and had the experience which can be a huge advantage in wrestling. It was also a good year for our team whom I had become very close to.

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Jordan's Andrew Fogarty finds success on college mat - SW News Media

49ers free agency: Should the Niners sign Jordan Reed? – Niners Nation

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

The San Francisco 49ers are rightfully considered one of the Super Bowl favorites going into the 2020 season. The roster is loaded with talent and is among one of the deepest in the NFL.

One position that could be upgraded is the backup tight end spot behind superstar George Kittle. Ross Dwelley had 15 receptions for 91 yards and two scores last season. The Niners also picked Charlie Woerner in the 2020 NFL Draft, but neither Dwelley nor Woerner are known for their playmaking abilities.

There is an intriguing option still available as a free agent, former Washington tight end Jordan Reed. Kyle Madson of Niners Wire stated the case for why the 30-year-old could be a good fit with the 49ers:

Despite the injuries hes been an exceptional player from both a traditional stats standpoint and in advanced metrics. In 65 games, Reed has 329 catches for 3,371 yards and 24 touchdowns. He posted 17 of those touchdowns during the 2015 and 2016 seasons. Reed is averaging 11 games per season for his career, and hauls in an average of 55 balls for 562 yards and four touchdowns in those 11 contests. Those numbers far surpass anything a 49ers backup tight end was liable to do next season in 16 games.

Reed was familiar with head coach Kyle Shanahans system due to their one year together in Washington in 2013. The issue with Reed is the injuries. He missed all of last season after suffering a concussion and didnt suit up in 17 games between 2016 and 2018.

The NFL Networks Ian Rapoport reports that Reed wants to play again next season, and three teams have shown interest in signing him.

As Madson points out, the Niners ran 12 personnel, or two tight end sets, nearly 32% of the time in 2019, so Reed wouldnt be a huge part of the offense, but his playmaking abilities make him an interesting option.

If Reed is willing to sign a cheap, one-year incentive-laden deal, do you think general manager John Lynch should try and sign him?

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49ers free agency: Should the Niners sign Jordan Reed? - Niners Nation

Riverhounds’ Jordan Dover, Robbie Mertz named to USL Championship Team of the Week – TribLIVE

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

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Riverhounds' Jordan Dover, Robbie Mertz named to USL Championship Team of the Week - TribLIVE

Stanford expedites review of requests for Jordan Hall renaming and statue removal | Stanford News – Stanford University News

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Stanford has accelerated the timeline for considering requests to rename Jordan Hall and remove a statue above its entrance.

Jordan Hall is home to the Department of Psychology, whose faculty members voted unanimously to request the name change and removal of the statue. (Image credit: Kate Chesley)

President Marc Tessier-Lavigne has appointed a review committee and charged it with delivering recommendations before the beginning of fall quarter.

Stanford law Professor Bernadette Meyler will chair the committee, which will include faculty, staff, students and alumni.

In April, Stanford announced plans for a committee to consider requests from the faculty of the Department of Psychology, which is housed in Jordan Hall, and the student-led Stanford Eugenics History Project, to change the name. Jordan Hall is named for Stanfords founding president, David Starr Jordan (1851-1931). The Psychology faculty also requested removal of the statue of Agassiz (1807-1873), who was Jordans mentor.

The requests for the building changes cite Jordans engagement in the American eugenics movement and the promotion of polygenism by Agassiz, who had no direct connection to the university.

At the time of the April announcement, much of Stanfords activity had moved online due to the pandemic, and the university planned to convene the committee when we have returned to campus in person. But Tessier-Lavigne said he is moving up the timetable in recognition of Stanfords commitment to racial justice and the fact that plans for a phased return to campus will prevent full in-person engagement.

Since then, it has become clear that next academic year will include a mixture of in-person and online activity, he said in emails to Psychology chair Anthony Wagner and history project founder Ben Maldonado. The committee will, therefore, need to engage virtually whenever it convenes, removing the rationale for a delay. At the same time, the past month has seen a heightened sense of urgency to tackling issues of racial justice both in our country and on our campus.

The committee will apply principles adopted in 2018 to evaluate requests for renaming campus features and will develop an approach for applying the principles to the request for the removal of the statue.

In addition to Meyler, committee members are Peter Chen, 80, a partner with Covington & Burling LLP; Diane T. Chin, a Stanford Law School associate dean; Ari Y. Kelman, associate professor in the Graduate School of Education; Ato Quayson, professor of English; and Vaughn Williams, JD 69, a retired partner with Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.

The committee plans to include one undergraduate and one graduate student. The university has asked the ASSU Nominating Commission for student nominations, with the final appointments to be made by the committee chair.

The full committee charge and other information can be found at campusnames.stanford.edu. Those wishing to provide input to the committee can do so at [emailprotected]. An open forum town hall will be held at 10 a.m. on Aug. 10 for those who wish to provide input via a virtual meeting.

During this process, the university will place a sign in the buildings foyer indicating that the review is underway.

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Stanford expedites review of requests for Jordan Hall renaming and statue removal | Stanford News - Stanford University News

PhilLaak the other one wins 1st WSOP bracelet – Las Vegas Review-Journal

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

PhilLaak won a World Series of Poker bracelet early Friday, but it wasnt that Phil Laak.

Guy Dunlap, using a screen name that cites the well-known poker pro, won Event 15 of the WSOP Online, a $1,000 buy-in Pot-limit Omaha High Roller, earning $133,780.14. He prevailed in a field of 663 entries (386 players and 277 rebuys) that created a prize pool of $629,850.

Dunlap claimed his first WSOP bracelet. He had nine cashes for $25,860 in WSOP events before Fridays score.

Laak, a bracelet winner with more than $1.1 million in WSOP earnings, is a colorful longtime pro who has been a fixture in televised poker games for years.

Shane Daniels (screen name danish01) finished second for the second time in the WSOP Online, earning $82,069.45. These are his only two career cashes in WSOP events.

WSOP postponed

The flagship WSOP that is normally held every summer at the Rio Convention Center has been postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The U.S. leg of the WSOP Online includes one event every day through July 31. Players must be physically located in Nevada or New Jersey to play.

Event 16, a $500 No-limit Holdem turbo tournament, starts at 3 p.m. Thursday and is expected to end early Friday. Event 17 is a $777 No-limit Holdem tournament that starts at 3 p.m. Friday.

A series for players who live outside the U.S. or Americans who can travel out of the country starts Sunday and runs through Sept. 6 on GGPoker.

Contact Jim Barnes at jbarnes@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0277. Follow @JimBarnesLV on Twitter.

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PhilLaak the other one wins 1st WSOP bracelet - Las Vegas Review-Journal

Poker Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up To 2026 – 3rd Watch News

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

New Jersey, United States,- Latest update on Poker Market Analysis report published with extensive market research, Poker Market growth analysis, and forecast by 2026. this report is highly predictive as it holds the overall market analysis of topmost companies into the Poker industry. With the classified Poker market research based on various growing regions, this report provides leading players portfolio along with sales, growth, market share, and so on.

The research report of the Poker market is predicted to accrue a significant remuneration portfolio by the end of the predicted time period. It includes parameters with respect to the Poker market dynamics incorporating varied driving forces affecting the commercialization graph of this business vertical and risks prevailing in the sphere. In addition, it also speaks about the Poker Market growth opportunities in the industry.

Poker Market Report covers the manufacturers data, including shipment, price, revenue, gross profit, interview record, business distribution etc., these data help the consumer know about the competitors better. This report also covers all the regions and countries of the world, which shows a regional development status, including Poker market size, volume and value, as well as price data.

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Poker Market Size By Product Analysis, Application, End-Users, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecast Up To 2026 - 3rd Watch News

Idris Elba Voices Opinion On Censorship In Media – The Root

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

Photo: Emma McIntyre (Getty Images)

Actor Idris Elba spoke with Radio Times about his thoughts regarding media censorship. In the interview with the magazine (released Tuesday), he says he believes television programs and films that are censored or flagged for jokes deemed inappropriate or offensive should come with a warning label, not be removed from their distribution platforms.

Im very much a believer in freedom of speech, Elba notes, but the thing about freedom of speech is that its not suitable for everybody. Thats why we have a rating system. We tell you that this particular content is rated U, PG, 15, 18.

Elbas comments come after several shows pulled episodes involving characters wearing blackface from streaming platforms, including Scrubs, 30 Rock, and Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia. HBOMax also found itself in the censorship conversation by removing Gone With The Wind from its platform over the films racist depictions of Black characters. It was restored to the streaming service in late-June with a new disclaimer about the films complicated legacy.

While Elba says that its fair enough that those who are in charge of these programs are pulling offensive episodes from being viewed, the 5-time Emmy-nominated actor says that its important that people are aware that this content, however inappropriate, is freedom of speech.

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To mock the truth, you have to know the truth, he continues. But to censor racist themes within a show, to pull itwait a second, I think viewers should know that people made shows like this...I think, moving forward, people should know that freedom of speech is accepted, but the audience should know what theyre getting into. I dont believe in censorship. I believe that we should be allowed to say what we want to say. Because, after all, were storymakers.

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Idris Elba Voices Opinion On Censorship In Media - The Root

The spectre of censorship and intolerance stalks todays left – The Guardian

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

The task that appears most urgent today is the destruction of the authoritarian right. Not because the authoritarian right is more malicious than the authoritarian left, but because it holds power across the west. Liberal-minded people making an informed calculation must surely decide to avoid distractions and concentrate their fire on the enemy that matters. Or so a seductive argument goes.

If you are an American voter, your sole priority should be the removal of Donald Trump. If you are British, you must concentrate on building a viable opposition to a Conservative party whose neglect and stupidity have wrecked the economy and killed tens of thousands. The slogan no enemies to the left is never more appealing than when it can be dressed in language that appeals to those who pose as tough-minded.

But it wont wash, and not just because the motives of those who scour the web to find evidence of the sins of others are those of the inquisitor and stool pigeon. In the world of practical politics, refusing to confront leftish authoritarianism leaves you with two options. You will either lose and deserve to lose, for you should have known that every time the far left has taken on the authoritarian right in the west it has lost. Or, and this may be worse, you will win and repent your failure to check that your new bosses were worthy of your trust.

According to the supposedly tough-minded view, signing a letter to Harpers protesting at the stifling of debate can only weaken our side. A defence of the signatories should begin by noting that they were telling the truth when they complained that writers, artists, and journalists fear for their livelihoods if they depart from the consensus, or even lack sufficient zeal in agreement. Note the precision. The signatories were not saying it is wrong for people to lay into others: freedom of speech is the freedom to criticise or it is nothing. Their point was that many live in fear of campaigns to destroy them if they dont mouth the right opinions.

Im surprised such a statement of the obvious could be controversial. No honest observer can deny that the dominant factions in the modern progressive movement reject freedom of speech. They punish opinions they disagree with when they have power; and the more power they have, the more they will punish. You may think the censorship justified, but to deny its existence is absurd. Tellingly, few bother to deny it now. Occasionally, you can see them raise the exhausted excuse from the grave that only the state can censor. On this reading, Islamists killing cartoonists at Charlie Hebdo, or CEOs firing whistleblowers, are not censoring because they are not civil servants. More popular in the past week has been the claim that writers with the reach of Margaret Atwood, Noam Chomsky, JK Rowling and Salman Rushdie cannot take a moral stand because no one can suppress their thought even though their critics give every impression of wanting to do just that.

Panic at the fear of denunciation and bad faith posing as rectitude can be found across the west

Leave aside their belief that ad hominem and ad feminam attacks can refute an argument, and consider that the worst of the old elite directed its attention to silencing the marginalised because it knew that their voice was often the only weapon the latter possessed. Then look around. Now as then, people without access to lawyers and influential friends suffer the most.

To take an example of that encapsulates the cowardice of our times: the Washington Post, a newspaper I admire and have written for, went to enormous lengths to destroy the life of one Sue Schafer, a middle-aged woman who made a mistake. She turned up to a Halloween party at the home of one of its cartoonists in blackface. She did not mean to insult African Americans but had come dressed as a ghoul in the guise of a conservative morning show host who had defended whites blacking up. The joke didnt work, as several guests forcefully told her. Because the words Washington Post and blackface could be said in the same sentence, and because several guests looked as if they might go public two years later, the paper gave 3,000 words to the story the amount of space normally reserved for a terrorist attack or declaration of war. Her employer, a government contractor, fired her. Everyones back was covered except Schafers and, frankly, she was a woman of no importance.

Panic at the fear of denunciation and bad faith posing as rectitude can be found across the west. A comparison with the right shows how deep the decay has reached. Conservatives know there are thoughts they cannot whisper Brexit is a mistake comparable to Munich and Suez, anti-black and anti-Muslim racism are tangible evils, poverty makes a nonsense of equality of opportunity. Likewise on the liberal left, the canny careerist takes care to avoid being caught on the wrong side of arguments about trans and womens rights, leftwing antisemitism, and bigotry in ethnic minorities. The canniest decide the best course is to say nothing at all.

The British ought to know the dangers of thinking there are no enemies to the left. Because Labour members failed to confront the crankery and racism of the Corbyn movement, they drove millions into Boris Johnsons clammy embrace. I doubt the same will happen in the US. Joe Biden has his faults, but he is no ones idea of a commissar. That is not to say there wont be a heavy price to pay. The nationalist right is determined to police opinion. In Hungary and Poland, the media are becoming its propaganda organs. Trump incites hatred of reporters who tell the truth about his administration. Johnson threatens the independence of the BBC and Channel 4. Yet they can pose as the champions of free expression because the loudest strain in progressivism has embraced censorship. The practical danger in giving up on freedom of speech is that the day will come when you find you are lost for words just when you need them most.

Nick Cohen is an Observer columnist

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The spectre of censorship and intolerance stalks todays left - The Guardian

How literary censorship inspired creativity in Victorian writers – The Conversation UK

Posted on July 16, 2020 by Danzig

In an open letter published in Harpers Magazine, 152 writers, including JK Rowling and Margaret Atwood, claim that a climate of censoriousness is pervading liberal culture, the latest contribution to an ongoing debate about freedom of speech online.

As we grapple with this issue in a society where social media allows us all to share extreme views, the Victorian writers offer a precedent for thinking differently about language and how we use it to get our point across. How limits of acceptability and literary censorship, for the Victorians, inspired creative ways of writing that foregrounded sensitivity and demanded thoughtfulness.

There are very few cases of books being banned in the Victorian era. But books were censored or refused because of moral prudishness, and publishers often objected to attacks on the upper classes - their book-buying audience. Writer and poet Thomas Hardys first novel, The Poor Man and the Lady, was never published because the publisher Alexander Macmillan felt that his portrayal of the upper classes was wholly dark not a ray of light visible to relieve the darkness.

However, more common than publishers turning down books was the refusal of circulating libraries to distribute them. These institutions were an integral part of literary consumerism during the Victorian period as the main means of distributing books.

Most influential of these was Charles Mudies Select Library, established in 1842. Mudies library was select because he would only circulate books that were suitable for middle-class parents to read aloud to their daughters without causing embarrassment.

This shaped how publishers commissioned and what writers could get away with. Victorian literary censorship, while limiting, managed to inspire writers to develop more creative and progressive ways to get their points across.

George Eliots publisher, John Blackwood, criticised her work for showing people as they really were rather than giving an idealistic picture. He was particularly uncomfortable when Eliot focused on the difficulties of working-class life.

In Mr Gilfils Love Story(1857), Eliots description of the orphan girl, Caterina, being subjected to soap-and-water raised Blackwoods censorious hackles:

I do not recollect of any passage that moved my critical censorship unless it might be the allusion to dirt in common with your heroine.

As well as dirt, alcohol consumption was also seen as an unwanted reminder of working class problems. Again in Mr Gifils Love Story, Eliot describes how the eponymous clergyman enjoys an occasional sip of gin-and-water.

However, knowing Blackwoods views and anticipating she may cause offence galvanised Eliot to state her case directly to the reader within the text itself. She qualifies her unromantic depiction of Mr Gilfil with an address to her lady readers:

Here I am aware that I have run the risk of alienating all my refined lady readers, and utterly annihilating any curiosity they may have felt to know the details of Mr Gilfils love-story let me assure you that Mr Gilfils potations of gin-and-water were quite moderate. His nose was not rubicund; on the contrary, his white hair hung around a pale and venerable face. He drank it chiefly, I believe, because it was cheap; and here I find myself alighting on another of the Vicars weaknesses, which, if I cared to paint a flattering portrait rather than a faithful one, I might have chosen to suppress.

Here, literary censorship enriches Eliots writing. Eliots refusal to suppress her work becomes part of the story and reinforces her agenda to portray Mr Gilfil as he really is, a vicar who mixes gin with water because he is poor.

As well as inspiring narrative additions, censorship was also powerful because of what was left out of a text.

One of Hardys most loved books, Tess of the DUrbervilles, highlights the crimes of sexual harassment in the workplace and of rape. Because Hardy had to be careful about the way that he presented the sexual abuse of Tess, his descriptions were very subtle. This is how he portrays the scene where Tess is sexually assaulted by her employer, Alec DUrberville:

The obscurity was now so great that he could see absolutely nothing but a pale nebulousness at his feet, which represented the white muslin figure he had left upon the dead leaves. Everything else was blackness alike. DUrberville stooped; and heard a gentle regular breathing. He knelt, and bent lower, till her breath warmed his face, and in a moment his cheek was in contact with hers. She was sleeping soundly, and upon her eyelashes there lingered tears.

The influence of censorship meant that Hardy could not describe this scene in graphic detail. Instead, his depiction is more sensitive and thoughtful. Hardy does not dehumanise Tess by depicting her as a sexual object to entertain the reader.

By focusing on Tesss gentle regular breathing and the poignant image of her tear-stained eyelashes, Hardy avoids gratuitous depictions of violence while at the same time making us painfully aware of the injustice she has suffered. This makes his portrayal of Tess more powerful and poignant. It can be argued that this was achieved because of the limits placed on his writing, not in spite of them.

In these instances, we can see how literary censorship influenced writers to tread more carefully upon difficult territory. It made them think about whether including violence or socially controversial depictions were necessary or gratuitous to their narratives.

For Hardy and Eliot, censorship and its limits inspired creativity, sensitivity and thoughtfulness. These examples can provide food for thought in the debate today about free speech and censorship. As Hardy and Eliot wrestled with as they wrote, can things be said differently and, in some cases, do they need to be said at all?

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How literary censorship inspired creativity in Victorian writers - The Conversation UK

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