CHAT THE PLANET: WHAT MONEY CAN'T BUY
A group of young New Yorkers link to their counterparts in Cape Town, South Africa to discuss politics, consumerism and activism:

Topics Explored:

Activism and Materialism: In the 60�s and 70�s, millions of young Americans took to the streets protesting the Vietnam war and the racism of an outdated society. By the 80�s, the youth activists were replaced by the Yuppies. In South Africa in the 70�s and 80�s, an entire generation of youth was definitude by their fight for freedom and victory over Apartheid. The 90�s was about crossing divides and opening doors. Ten years later, it seems as though it is all about owning the latest designer gear and finding your struggle. In the midst of this consumerist frenzy, images of anti-globalization and anti-war protest sweep across our television screens. Have young people found a new voice? Is it a rise in activism or apathy?

The link between New York and Cape Town, South Africa took place on Thursday, March 13, 2003.

CHAT THE PLANET is a groundbreaking weekly television series that links articulate young people around the world via digital conferencing technology, giving them the opportunity to speak about issues they care about. Prerecorded video inserts capture the visual essence of each topic and serve as instigators in the conversation. The participants share their perspectives and opinions on everything from music and pop culture to world issues and ethics.

To view a streamed version suitable for broadband connections, click here; and for dialup connections click here.

Viewers can access the CHAT THE PLANET website at any time to discuss issues in real time with other visitors, see clips of the show, meet participants from other episodes, and get information about everything from current events to pop cullture.         

CHAT THE PLANET is financed by the Shei�rah Foundation, founded by Sheryl Leach, creator of Barney, and Howard Rosenfeld.