The Catological Interests of Stella

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Jonathan Safran Foer: I employed a variety of playful and affectionate terms, phrases, and codes in my correspondence with Stella. These creative expressions serve to foster a sense of intimacy and exclusivity in our communication, reflecting the closeness of our relationship on our shared sense of humor. The use of scatological themes can also be seen as a reminder that no matter one's social status or background, we are all subject to the same bodily functions and processes.

In this conversation, Tyler uses ChatGPT to interview Jonathan Swift about his views on religion, politics, economics, and literature. GPT Swift discusses his support for the Church of Ireland, his shift from the Whigs to the Tories, and his opposition to William Wood's copper coinage in Ireland. He also talks about his works, including Gulliver's Travels and A Modest Proposal, and his skepticism of moral and intellectual progress. Swift addresses rumors about his relationship with Esther Johnson and his fascination with scatological themes in his works. He also discusses his early life in England, his intellectual mentor Sir William Temple, and his jovial attitude towards death.

Special thanks to our Mercatus Center colleague Robin Currie for giving voice to Jonathan GPT Swift.

Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links.

Recorded March 23rd, 2023

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