The discussion centers on whether the interval [-1,∞) contains any open sets and whether it is itself an open set. It is clarified that [-1,∞) is a half-open interval and thus not an open set because it includes the endpoint -1. However, it does contain open sets, such as the interval (4, 7). Participants also note that any non-zero interval on the real line can contain various combinations of open and closed sets. Ultimately, the distinction between the interval being open versus containing open sets is emphasized.