JRE #839 – Tom Papa

8/29/2016

Joe Rogan Experience #839 – Tom Papa: Topics and Summary

This podcast features a lively conversation with comedian Tom Papa, exploring a wide range of topics from sourdough bread to the complexities of human nature. Provocative themes include the absurdity of news headlines, the power of alcohol vs. marijuana, the realities of corporate environments, and the dark side of human nature. The discussion delves into the complexities of faith, societal issues like sexism and racism, and the allure of escapism through travel.

1. The Absurdity of Modern News:
   • Tom Papa expresses frustration with the constant barrage of sensationalized news, particularly on platforms like The New York Times.
   • He criticizes the rush for breaking news, highlighting the lack of depth and the prevalence of lazy, opinionated journalism.
   • Papa advocates for a more thoughtful approach to news consumption, suggesting a limited daily intake to avoid becoming overwhelmed and cynical.
   • He argues that sensationalized headlines like “Sexism is Why Women Like to Drink” are designed to provoke and generate clicks, rather than promote thoughtful discourse.
2. Alcohol vs. Marijuana:
   • Tom Papa highlights the contrasting effects of alcohol and marijuana, suggesting alcohol promotes a “who gives a fuck” attitude, while marijuana prompts introspection and contemplation.
   • He argues that marijuana can expose undesirable aspects of life, leading to a desire for change, while alcohol merely numbs these issues.
   • Papa’s perspective emphasizes the potential for marijuana to be a catalyst for personal growth and awareness, contrasting with alcohol’s tendency to mask problems.
   • This discussion touches on broader societal implications of substance use, showcasing the potential benefits and drawbacks of different substances.
3. The Corporate World:
   • Tom Papa discusses the inherent pressures and artificiality of corporate environments, where individual opinions are often suppressed in favor of company loyalty and career advancement.
   • He highlights the “silent desperation” felt by many corporate employees, trapped in jobs they may not enjoy and engaging in a constant act of “playing the game” to succeed.
   • Papa’s observations suggest that corporate environments can stifle creativity and individual expression, leading to a sense of detachment from genuine personal fulfillment.
   • The discussion explores the psychological toll of corporate life, raising questions about the balance between career success and personal happiness.
4. The Dark Side of Human Nature:
   • Tom Papa delves into the disturbing aspects of human behavior, citing examples of lawsuits based on frivolous claims, the prevalence of scams, and the widespread exploitation of vulnerable populations.
   • He highlights the tendency towards selfishness and a willingness to take advantage of others for financial gain, even in seemingly harmless situations like schoolyard interactions.
   • Papa’s observations paint a bleak picture of human nature, suggesting that even in seemingly civilized societies, a deep-seated darkness can manifest in unexpected ways.
   • This discussion raises questions about the nature of morality, the limits of empathy, and the responsibility we have to protect those who are vulnerable.
5. The Allure of Escapism:
   • Tom Papa explores the desire for escape, finding solace in activities like fishing, travel, and even the indulgence of smoking cigars.
   • He acknowledges the inherent human need to seek adventure and experience different realities, even if it’s through fantasy or the pursuit of fleeting pleasures.
   • Papa’s perspective suggests that these escapes can provide temporary relief from the harsh realities of life, but ultimately, they can’t solve the deeper issues that contribute to our anxieties.
   • This discussion touches on the delicate balance between seeking fulfillment and finding meaning in a complex world.
6. The Importance of Charity and Helping Others:
   • Tom Papa discusses the motivation behind charitable acts, questioning whether they are purely altruistic or fueled by ego.
   • He acknowledges the complexities of human behavior, recognizing that even seemingly selfless acts can be driven by a desire for recognition or a sense of self-importance.
   • Papa argues that despite the motivations, the impact of charitable actions should be prioritized, recognizing the positive effect on those who are helped.
   • This discussion delves into the ethical dimensions of philanthropy, highlighting the importance of both genuine intention and tangible impact.
7. The Power of Belief Systems:
   • Tom Papa touches on the power of belief systems, from religious faith to political ideologies, highlighting the comforting nature of belonging to a group and subscribing to a shared set of values.
   • He acknowledges the tendency for individuals to “lock in” to certain beliefs, often forgoing critical thinking in favor of certainty and a sense of belonging.
   • Papa’s observations suggest that belief systems can provide a sense of security and purpose, but they can also limit individual growth and prevent open-mindedness.
   • This discussion raises questions about the balance between faith, reason, and the pursuit of truth.
8. The Impact of Social Justice Movements:
   • Tom Papa discusses the complexities of social justice movements, specifically addressing the debate surrounding the “Black Lives Matter” movement and the criticism of those who choose not to stand for the national anthem.
   • He acknowledges the importance of addressing systemic inequalities and providing equal opportunities for all, but also expresses concern about the divisive rhetoric and potential for censorship that can arise from these movements.
   • Papa’s perspective highlights the delicate balance between promoting social change and respecting individual rights, encouraging a nuanced approach to navigating these challenging issues.
   • This discussion touches on the evolving nature of social discourse, the potential for unintended consequences, and the importance of fostering empathy and understanding across diverse perspectives.
9. The Legacy of American History:
   • Tom Papa delves into the dark history of American colonization and the ongoing impact on Native American populations.
   • He criticizes the systemic racism and oppression that have plagued Native Americans throughout history, highlighting the neglect of their struggles in contemporary conversations about social justice.
   • Papa’s perspective advocates for increased awareness and accountability for the historical injustices inflicted upon Native Americans, urging for a more inclusive approach to understanding American history.
   • This discussion raises crucial questions about the role of historical understanding in shaping societal progress and the need for reconciliation with past transgressions.
10. The Power of Wealth and Influence:
    • Tom Papa examines the corrosive influence of wealth and power, using examples like the Clinton Foundation and the activities of wealthy individuals like Paul Allen.
    • He explores the potential for corruption and manipulation that can occur when individuals hold significant resources and influence, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power.
    • Papa’s observations suggest that wealth and influence can create a distorted reality, leading to a sense of entitlement and a disregard for ethical boundaries.
    • This discussion raises questions about the responsibility of those who hold power and the need for safeguards to prevent abuse and ensure transparency.
11. The Role of the Media:
    • Tom Papa examines the media’s influence in shaping public perception, citing examples of how sensationalized headlines and biased reporting can distort reality and fuel societal divisions.
    • He highlights the potential for the media to manipulate public opinion, particularly when it comes to sensitive topics like political scandals and allegations of abuse.
    • Papa’s perspective encourages a critical evaluation of media sources, urging for discernment and a balanced approach to consuming information.
    • This discussion touches on the complexities of media responsibility, the power of narratives, and the importance of seeking out diverse perspectives.
12. The Nature of Truth and Reality:
    • Tom Papa explores the subjective nature of truth and reality, highlighting the tendency for individuals to distort narratives based on their own biases and emotions.
    • He discusses the prevalence of “confirmation bias,” where people seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs, even if it’s not entirely accurate.
    • Papa’s observations suggest that achieving objective truth is a challenging endeavor, recognizing the role of personal experiences, cultural influences, and even unconscious biases in shaping our understanding of the world.
    • This discussion prompts reflection on the importance of critical thinking, open-mindedness, and a willingness to engage with perspectives that challenge our own.
13. The Perils of Generalizations:
    • Tom Papa cautions against generalizations, particularly those based on gender or other societal classifications, emphasizing the need for individual assessment rather than preconceived notions.
    • He criticizes the tendency to automatically accept accusations against men based on the assumption that women are always truthful, highlighting the potential for injustice and misjudgments.
    • Papa’s perspective advocates for a fair and balanced approach to evaluating claims, urging for individual assessment and a willingness to consider all sides of a story.
    • This discussion touches on the complexities of human interaction, the need for empathy and critical judgment, and the importance of avoiding harmful stereotypes.
14. The Importance of Personal Boundaries and Self-Preservation:
    • Tom Papa emphasizes the importance of establishing and maintaining personal boundaries, particularly in situations where wealth and power create a distorted reality.
    • He advocates for self-preservation, recognizing the potential for exploitation and the need to avoid being drawn into unhealthy relationships or situations that threaten one’s well-being.
    • Papa’s perspective suggests that while ambition and success are valuable, they should not come at the cost of personal integrity and a healthy balance in life.
    • This discussion touches on the themes of self-awareness, resilience, and the importance of choosing one’s own path, even in a world filled with temptations and pressures.
15. The Unpredictability of Nature:
    • Tom Papa discusses the unpredictable nature of the natural world, highlighting the potential for outbreaks of deadly diseases like Zika virus and the unforeseen consequences of human intervention in ecosystems.
    • He acknowledges the limitations of scientific understanding and the potential for nature to surprise us with new challenges, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and a respect for the natural world.
    • Papa’s perspective suggests that we should approach the natural world with humility, recognizing our limited control and the need for a balanced approach to managing our impact on the environment.
    • This discussion raises questions about the role of science in solving global challenges, the need for sustainable practices, and the importance of respecting the delicate balance of nature.
16. The Power of Observation:
    • Tom Papa demonstrates a keen eye for detail, observing the subtle nuances of human behavior, the quirks of everyday life, and the complexities of the world around him.
    • He uses humor and sharp wit to highlight the absurdity of situations, the contradictions in human nature, and the unexpected connections that exist between seemingly disparate things.
    • Papa’s observations showcase the value of paying attention to the details, recognizing the potential for insight and understanding that can emerge from careful observation.
    • This discussion highlights the importance of curiosity, a sense of wonder, and the ability to find humor in the everyday.
17. The Importance of Perspective:
    • Tom Papa encourages listeners to consider different perspectives, reminding us that our own biases and experiences shape our understanding of the world.
    • He highlights the importance of seeking out diverse viewpoints and engaging in respectful dialogue, even when we disagree with others.
    • Papa’s perspective suggests that understanding different perspectives is crucial for building empathy, fostering meaningful connections, and promoting a more just and equitable society.
    • This discussion touches on the core values of open-mindedness, tolerance, and the pursuit of truth in a world increasingly defined by polarization and echo chambers.

Memorable Quotes

• “Don’t you feel that way about the news sometimes, like, enough. I just I can’t do this anymore.” – Tom Papa expresses the overwhelming nature of constant news consumption, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach.
• “This is why you don’t read philosophy. You’re just opening up. Opening up and there’s no way to solve it.” – Tom Papa humorously addresses the existential anxieties that can arise from contemplating complex philosophical questions.
• “Most men live lives of silent desperation. I’m sure most women too. I think most humans. There’s a lot of a lot of doing shit you don’t wanna do.” – Tom Papa observes the commonality of unfulfilling work and the struggles faced by many individuals, highlighting the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life.
• “The more likely a man is to wear loafers with those tassels. The more likely he has to have these deep dark visions and fantasies. Absolutely. You you get out of him if you just get a couple cocktails in him.” – Tom Papa playfully stereotypes men who wear certain fashion items, emphasizing the comedic potential of human observation and the tendency to make judgments based on appearances.
• “The earth is flat. Stop it. There it’s not flat. Not anymore. It’s rounding itself out over the years, scan and wait like all of us.” – Tom Papa humorously addresses the absurdity of conspiracy theories, comparing the belief in a flat earth to the process of human evolution and the constant need for adaptability.