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 It Time to Redistribute the Wealth?
Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Mandates
The State of Debate: An Intelligence Squared Roundtable
Ray Dalio on How To Change Your Mind
Is Bitcoin More Than a Bubble and Here to Stay?
Is Anti-Zionism the New Anti-Semitism?
#192 - Is Taiwan Indefensible?
Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Passports
#191 - Should We Legalize Psychedelics?
Agree to Disagree COVID Series: Vaccine Patents
#190 - Should We Forgive Student Debt?
Agree to Disagree: The Filibuster
Agree to Disagree: Slavery Reparations
#189 - Has the GOP Lost Its Way?
Agree to Disagree: Sex with Robots (Valentine's Day Special)
Agree to Disagree: Identity Politics
#188 - For the Last Four Years, America Got the Middle East Right
Is America Still A Model for the World?
Helen Fisher on How Genes Affect Your Politics
Intelligence Squared Year-Ender
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