What Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, or Eddie Murphy jokes would be deemed offensive by today’s standards? From comedy specials to TV shows and movies, what makes us laugh has come under scrutiny. Some old jokes and racy skits are considered off-limits in today's context, leading to public apologies, cancellations, and backlash. While society wants more inclusivity and awareness, comedy has now become a cultural battleground. Some argue that political correctness will stifle comedic creativity and worry it will affect comedy’s ability to tackle tough subjects, leading to self-censorship and lack of depth or free speech. Those who disagree say comedy, like all art forms, has always evolved with changing societal norms and it can still flourish without relying on harmful stereotypes or tropes. Instead, acting more sensitive or woke will refine and elevate comedy.
Against this background, we debate the question: Is Wokeness Killing Comedy?
This debate will take place in front of a live audience, on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at The Comedy Cellar’s Village Underground in New York City.
Arguing Yes: Lou Perez, Comedian, Producer, Author of "That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore"
Arguing No: Michael Ian Black, Actor and Comedian
Nick Gillespie, Editor-at-Large of Reason, guest moderates
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Is Amazon Good for Small Business?
Long Live The British Monarchy?
Should We Search for Extraterrestrial Life?
Will AI Do More Harm Than Good?
Should The SAT Be Erased?
Is Cancel Culture Toxic?
Should Trump Be Indicted?
Should We Eat More Processed Foods?
Should We Forgive Student Debt?
Should We Isolate Russia?
Agree to Disagree: Can the Fed Manage a Soft Landing?
We Should Expand the Supreme Court
Humans Can Adapt to Climate Change
Debate Like a World Champion: A Conversation with Bo Seo, Harvard Debate Coach & Global Debate Champion
Should Society Legalize Psychedelics?
Agree to Disagree: Does Your Electric Vehicle Help The Planet?
Agree to Disagree: Can Small Investors Beat The Street?
Agree to Disagree: Is It Right to End Roe?
It's Time to Expand Nuclear Power
Thinking Again with Adam Grant: The Power of Debate, and Knowing What You Don’t Know
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Regenerative Skills
The Meaningful Life with Andrew G. Marshall
The No-Frills Teacher Podcast
The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
The Mel Robbins Podcast