Ridiculous History CLASSIC: George Carlin Gets Quoted in the Supreme Court: Ridiculous Stand-up Stories with Wayne Federman
Aug 2, 2025
Wayne Federman, a comedy legend and educator, joins to explore how George Carlin's 'seven dirty words' sparked a Supreme Court case that changed the landscape of free speech. He delves into Carlin's innovative impact on stand-up and the nuances of censorship. The conversation touches on the legacies of icons like Lenny Bruce, the evolution of language in comedy, and the ongoing debate surrounding artistic expression versus societal norms. Tune in for insightful anecdotes and reflections on comedy's role in shaping public discourse.
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Carlin's Iconic Seven Words Bit
- George Carlin created a famous comedy bit listing "seven words you can never say on television."
- He rhythmically delivered them in a way inspired by Danny Kaye, his acting idol turned comedic influence.
Supreme Court and FCC Case
- The public radio station Pacifica aired Carlin's bit and was fined by the FCC for indecency.
- Pacifica challenged the fine, leading to a landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling on broadcast decency.
Neutrality of Words and Legal Legacy
- Carlin believed words themselves are neutral; only context makes them good or bad.
- The Supreme Court quoted Carlin alongside literary giants like Shakespeare and the Bible during the case.