LessWrong (30+ Karma) “The Joke” by Ape in the coat
Nov 30, 2025
Explore the fascinating dynamic of the philosopher vs. engineer joke format, revealing how different perspectives create humor in misunderstanding. The discussion dives into the rarity of this humor amid societal polarization and reflects on the author's intellectual journey shifting sympathy from philosophers to engineers. Additionally, it critiques the limitations of philosophical reasoning and emphasizes the importance of seeking answers grounded in empirical evidence, showcasing the rich interplay between philosophy and science.
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Joke Captures Persistent Misunderstanding
- The "Philosopher vs Engineer" joke reveals persistent miscommunication between deep questioning and practical answers.
- The joke remains funny regardless of which side you prefer because both miss essential aspects of the other's perspective.
Personal Intellectual Shift
- Ape in the Coat recounts his shift from siding with philosophers to siding with engineers.
- He describes initially seeing scientists as missing the real philosophical point when he was about 12.
Limits Of Pure Philosophical Questioning
- Philosophy often raises foundational problems but frequently stops at roadblocks instead of delivering answers.
- Asking questions without building on empirical knowledge leaves philosophy stuck at childlike curiosities.
