I think it's worth noting that this is a Media Lab award, not one presented by the regular MIT administration. The Media Lab is given a lot of free reign and tends to do more out-there stuff. You should not construe them as speaking for the same people who betrayed Aaron (if that's how you see it happening).
Not to be pedantic, but I just learned a few minutes ago that "free rein" is the correct spelling, as in horseback riding. Thought I would share the knowledge.