The core problem is with TED itself, at least that's the problem the article talks about. TEDx is a sideshow to the real issue, just like the show itself. Entit

The core problem is with TED itself, at least that's the problem the article talks about. TEDx is a sideshow to the real issue, just like the show itself. Entities like Malcolm Gladwell and TED have done a great deal of cultural damage. IIRC Holmes appeared on TED, not TEDx. There's been plenty of hucksterism associated with the main TED. The concept itself is a bit grifty. It's sugar coated glittering generalities and idea peddling (what if xyz were true?) If it's truly for entertainment value, there's nothing wrong with TED, but it pretends to be something else. It pretends to be a beacon in society; a marketplace for the hottest new ideas. When you listen to speakers like Gladwell (who I've heard accurately described as the walking embodiment of a TED talk) they are very convincing with whatever idea they're selling. After you peel beneth the surface you find the evidence is really shaky for what he claims, but he makes it seem like such a sure thing; settled science. In some ways I think he acts as an information distortion/amplification device. He makes claims with certainty no self-respecting scientists would make. Also, this isn't talked about much, but TED has always been a gathering of the elites. You're literally not invited. I'm somewhat surprised it hasn't showed up in more conspiracies. They've been running these shows in a cult like atmosphere, too. This has never been an accessible program. It's where billionaires go to smooze and decide how to spend their money. You might as well be watching a Goldman Sac's retreat (but this is silicon valley, so it's supposed to be different for some reason)