The Modern Dispatch

Exploitation

2 articles

A symbolic representation of cultural appropriation, showing a convergence of diverse cultural elements at a crossroads, with one path illuminated and the other in shadow.
Culture

Cultural appropriation: Redefining debates beyond exploitation.

A song widely celebrated for its artistic merit is simultaneously described by The New York Times as a 'magnificent example of cultural appropriation,' challenging common perceptions of the term.

Theo Ashford·April 28, 2026
A young student working for free in a luxurious office, symbolizing the exploitation of talent by a high-profile Vogue editor.

Vogue Editor's Free Labor Scheme Exploits Young Talent for Profit

Plum Sykes, a Vogue editor whose Substack boasts over 20,000 followers and charges subscribers up to £65, is currently employing students for free to help run her platform.

Elise Marrow·April 13, 2026