Making Sense with Sam Harris #279 — The Rules of the Stage
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Apr 18, 2022 Ricky Gervais, the comedic genius known for his roles in The Office and After Life, dives deep into the controversial Oscars incident involving Will Smith and Chris Rock. He shares humorous reflections on alcohol and aging, discussing how these impact personal experiences and health. The conversation navigates the complexities of public outbursts and societal norms, questioning the line between valor and recklessness. Gervais also tackles the cultural confusion surrounding public apologies and the evolving expectations of accountability in celebrity culture.
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Gervais' Initial Reaction
- Ricky Gervais woke up to messages about the Oscar slap, confused about the event.
- After watching the clip, his initial reaction was anger, believing no one should resort to violence for words.
The Joke's Nature
- Gervais didn't find Rock's joke offensive, considering it tame and applicable even in casual settings.
- He points out the joke targeted Jada Pinkett Smith's appearance, not her medical condition, which he believes Rock was unaware of.
Power Imbalance and Bullying
- Gervais highlights the power imbalance in the slap, with Will Smith, a larger man, hitting a much smaller Chris Rock.
- He emphasizes that physical violence, regardless of the joke, is never justified and constitutes bullying.