JRE #1135 - Ari Shaffir

25-Jun-18

Joe Rogan Experience #1135 – Ari Shaffir

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features comedian Ari Shaffir, known for his podcasts “Ari Shaffir’s Skeptic Tank” and “Punch Drunk Sports.” The conversation touches upon a wide range of topics, from personal experiences to societal observations, with a focus on comedy, drugs, and the nature of success. Shaffir’s candid and often provocative insights provide a unique perspective on various aspects of life, culture, and the world at large.

1. The Power of Travel and New Experiences:

Shaffir emphasizes the transformative power of travel, arguing that new experiences and perspectives broaden understanding and challenge preconceptions. He shares his experiences traveling in Australia and Asia, highlighting how these journeys impacted his comedic outlook.
Shaffir believes that exploring different cultures and environments fuels creative development, particularly in comedy, where it’s crucial to connect with audiences and share authentic perspectives.
He contrasts the comedic styles of LA and New York, emphasizing how his travels infused his own comedy with a more New York-style, insult-based approach.
Shaffir highlights the importance of pushing boundaries and confronting personal fears through new experiences, citing his own journey of self-discovery through travel.

2. The Dark Side of Success:

Shaffir discusses the potential pitfalls of success in comedy, noting how it can lead to complacency and a decline in artistic growth. He uses the example of Sam Kinison’s career trajectory, highlighting how he ultimately succumbed to the pressures of fame and lost his edge.
Shaffir argues that success can breed a fear of failure, making comedians hesitant to experiment with new material and challenge themselves. He encourages the constant pursuit of new ideas and perspectives, even at the risk of bombing on stage.
He stresses the importance of self-reflection and honesty, urging comedians to constantly evaluate their own work and strive for material that they would pay to see themselves.
Shaffir emphasizes the need for continuous learning and growth, both artistically and personally, arguing that complacency can lead to stagnation and a loss of creative drive.

3. Drug Legalization and Societal Responsibility:

Shaffir argues for the legalization of drugs, citing the ineffectiveness of prohibition and its contribution to dangerous black markets. He believes that legalization would reduce teen use by removing the allure of the forbidden.
Shaffir suggests that legalization would normalize drug use, similar to alcohol, and lead to a decrease in overall usage as the novelty fades. He suggests that current prohibition laws contribute to the allure and perceived danger of drugs, leading to higher usage rates.
He discusses the potential benefits of psilocybin mushrooms, highlighting their role in human evolution and their ability to enhance visual perception and cognitive function.
Shaffir argues for a societal responsibility to address the failures of the current drug prohibition system and to move towards a more informed and rational approach to drug policy.

4. The Gender Gap in Comedy:

Shaffir delves into the challenges faced by women in comedy, specifically the difficulty of navigating rejection and the prevalence of misogyny in the industry. He suggests that women may be more sensitive to rejection, making them less inclined to embrace the initial failures inherent in stand-up comedy.
He highlights the double standard that exists in how men and women are received on stage, suggesting that women face a greater hurdle when discussing politics or offering advice. He argues that men are more likely to be accepted as authority figures, while women often face skepticism and resistance.
Shaffir acknowledges that early success can be detrimental to comedic development, particularly for women, as it can lead to complacency and a reduced work ethic. He suggests that the demand for female performers often leads to their promotion before they are fully prepared, potentially hindering their long-term growth.
Shaffir recognizes the presence of creeps and harassment in open mic scenes, further contributing to the challenges women face in early stages of their comedic careers.

5. The Power of Trash Talking:

Shaffir explores the role of trash talking in combat sports, specifically in MMA, arguing that it adds an extra layer of entertainment and excitement to fights. He uses examples from Conor McGregor and Colby Covington, noting how their trash talking builds anticipation and intensifies the emotional stakes of their matches.
Shaffir discusses the psychological impact of trash talking on fighters, noting how it can fuel aggression and lead to a loss of composure. He suggests that this emotional element can sometimes backfire, leading to fighters making strategic mistakes.
Shaffir acknowledges the controversy surrounding trash talking, particularly the potential for offensive language and behavior. However, he argues that it is a crucial part of the sport, contributing to its entertainment value and its ability to generate hype and interest.
Shaffir analyzes the strategic use of trash talking, highlighting how it can be employed to gain a psychological advantage over opponents. He suggests that trash talking can be a powerful weapon in the fight game, influencing the mental and emotional states of fighters.

6. The Nature of Success and the Pursuit of Happiness:

Shaffir offers advice to young people, encouraging them to prioritize their passions and pursue their own unique paths, even at the risk of taking unconventional routes.
He argues against the societal pressures to conform and follow traditional career paths, urging individuals to seek out their true calling and pursue it with relentless dedication. He emphasizes the importance of embracing failure and the lessons it teaches.
Shaffir advocates for a shift in societal values, placing greater emphasis on personal fulfillment, relationships, and experiences over material wealth and status. He believes that true happiness comes from pursuing meaningful work and living a life of purpose.
Shaffir contrasts the traditional American dream, characterized by accumulating wealth and possessions, with a more authentic pursuit of happiness based on pursuing one’s passions and building meaningful relationships.

7. The Importance of Mental Health and Overcoming Depression:

Shaffir shares his personal experience with depression, providing insights into the challenges of navigating the condition and the role of medication in his own recovery. He discusses the importance of seeking professional help and finding the right medication.
He acknowledges the stigma surrounding mental health and the difficulty of admitting to struggling with depression. He encourages open communication about mental health issues and the importance of destigmatizing these conditions.
Shaffir stresses the importance of finding ways to combat depression, whether through medication, therapy, exercise, or other means. He emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and finding the right solution can be a process of trial and error.
Shaffir suggests that depression can be a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, and that recovery requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the biological and psychological dimensions.

8. The Role of Religion and the Origins of Belief Systems:

Shaffir explores the origins of religious beliefs, suggesting that many early religious teachings stemmed from attempts to explain natural phenomena or to create social order. He highlights the influence of cultural and historical factors in shaping religious beliefs.
He examines the role of religious institutions in shaping and maintaining beliefs, highlighting the power of tradition and indoctrination. Shaffir discusses the tendency for religions to adapt and change over time, often responding to societal pressures and evolving cultural norms.
Shaffir discusses the Baha’i faith, which draws similarities across various religions, suggesting that some core beliefs may be rooted in universal truths. He also examines the origins of specific religious practices, such as the prohibition against eating pork, attributing them to health concerns related to trichinosis.
Shaffir offers a skeptical perspective on religious beliefs, questioning the validity of certain teachings and practices. He encourages critical thinking and a questioning of traditional beliefs, even those that are deeply ingrained in culture and society.

9. The Rise of Social Media Outrage and the Culture of Attack:

Shaffir critiques the increasingly prevalent culture of online outrage and attack, noting the tendency for people to pile on and condemn individuals for perceived transgressions, even when they apologize and attempt to make amends. He highlights the lack of compassion and forgiveness in this environment.
He examines the motivations behind this online behavior, suggesting that it often stems from a combination of jealousy, insecurity, and a desire to see others suffer. He argues that this toxic behavior can have a detrimental impact on mental health and social cohesion.
Shaffir critiques the role of social media in amplifying and spreading outrage, highlighting the ease with which misinformation and biased narratives can go viral. He argues that social media can create echo chambers that reinforce extreme viewpoints and contribute to a culture of polarization.
Shaffir emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of compassion, understanding, and forgiveness, urging people to approach online interactions with empathy and a willingness to see the perspectives of others.

10. The Shifting Landscape of Free Speech and the ACLU:

Shaffir discusses the evolving debate surrounding free speech and the changing stance of the ACLU, which has been criticized for its perceived shift away from defending even controversial or hateful speech.
Shaffir examines the arguments for and against limiting free speech, highlighting the complexities of balancing individual rights with the potential for harm. He discusses the concept of “hate speech” and its potential impact on marginalized communities.
Shaffir questions the effectiveness of censoring speech, arguing that it can backfire by giving controversial ideas greater prominence and reinforcing the views of those who are already marginalized.
He highlights the potential for hypocrisy in how free speech is applied, suggesting that certain groups may be more likely to face restrictions or criticism than others. Shaffir emphasizes the importance of consistency and fairness in how free speech laws are enforced.

11. The Nature of Reality and the Existential Question:

Shaffir explores the concept of reality, drawing connections between psychedelic experiences and the philosophical questions surrounding the nature of existence. He suggests that psychedelics can provide insights into the interconnectedness of all things and the illusion of separation.
He discusses the challenges of articulating these insights to others, noting how they can be difficult to translate from the subjective experience of altered states into a comprehensible language. Shaffir emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder and curiosity, even in the face of uncertainty.
Shaffir acknowledges the limitations of human understanding, suggesting that our perceptions of reality are constantly evolving and that we are always in the process of learning and growing. He encourages a willingness to embrace the unknown and to question our own assumptions.
Shaffir’s exploration of reality underscores the human search for meaning and purpose, highlighting the ongoing quest to understand our place in the universe and the nature of consciousness.

12. The Power of Observation and the Importance of Staying Grounded:

Shaffir highlights the importance of observation and paying attention to the world around us, drawing connections between these skills and comedic development. He suggests that observing human behavior and the intricacies of everyday life can provide rich fodder for comedy.
Shaffir encourages a sense of curiosity and a willingness to question assumptions, noting how this critical thinking can lead to fresh insights and unique perspectives. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding complacency and maintaining an open mind.
Shaffir emphasizes the value of staying grounded in reality, avoiding the temptations of fame and fortune that can lead to a disconnect from the everyday experiences that fuel comedic creativity. He suggests that maintaining a connection to the real world is essential for maintaining a sharp and relevant perspective.
Shaffir’s discussion of observation highlights the importance of recognizing the human element in comedy, emphasizing the need to connect with audiences on a personal level and to share authentic and relatable experiences.

13. The World of Cults and the Allure of Belief Systems:

Shaffir explores the world of cults, discussing the Netflix documentary “Wild Wild Country,” which chronicles the rise and fall of the Rajneesh movement, a controversial cult that established a community in Oregon. He examines the factors that contribute to the allure of cults, including the promise of belonging and the appeal of charismatic leaders.
He discusses the similarities between cults and religions, highlighting the potential for both to create rigid belief systems and to control the lives of followers. Shaffir argues that the distinction between cult and religion is often blurred, and that both can be susceptible to manipulation and abuse.
Shaffir touches upon the concept of “groupthink” and how it can lead to conformity and the suppression of critical thinking. He examines the dynamics of power within groups and how they can influence individual behavior.
Shaffir’s exploration of cults provides insights into the human desire for connection and belonging, while also raising concerns about the dangers of blind faith and the potential for manipulation.

14. The Reality of Natural Disasters:

Shaffir discusses the destructive power of nature, citing the recent volcanic eruption in Hawaii and the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. He highlights the vulnerability of human communities to natural disasters and the challenges of rebuilding and recovery.
He examines the role of government and infrastructure in responding to these disasters, suggesting that a lack of preparedness and inadequate resources can exacerbate the impact of these events. Shaffir also raises questions about the distribution of aid and the inequities that can arise in the wake of disasters.
Shaffir reflects on the human resilience in the face of adversity, noting how communities often come together to support each other and rebuild in the wake of devastation. He highlights the importance of empathy and collaboration in times of crisis.
Shaffir’s discussion of natural disasters underscores the fragility of human existence and the interconnectedness of our world. He encourages a greater awareness of the impact of climate change and the need for responsible environmental stewardship.

15. The Importance of Community and Building Meaningful Connections:

Shaffir emphasizes the importance of building meaningful connections and fostering strong communities, suggesting that these connections provide support, purpose, and a sense of belonging. He highlights the role of friendship in providing a sense of security and stability in an uncertain world.
He contrasts the isolation and loneliness that can result from focusing solely on individual success with the joy and fulfillment found in strong relationships. Shaffir argues that prioritizing community and connection is essential for personal well-being.
Shaffir discusses the importance of mutual support and understanding, suggesting that we can all learn from each other and that we are stronger together. He encourages a culture of empathy and compassion, where we recognize our shared humanity and the importance of helping each other.
Shaffir’s reflections on community highlight the human need for connection and the potential for shared experiences to enrich our lives and create a sense of purpose. He encourages us to seek out meaningful relationships and to cultivate a sense of belonging within our communities.

Memorable Quotes:

“You have to have new challenges, new experiences. You have to be excited about some thoughts. New thoughts.”
“You gotta be up on yourself. It’s like it’s like college stuff from high school where they’re like, ‘look, they don’t care in college. They’re gonna let you fail.'”
“There’s a there’s a responsibility that I think society has to this fucked up prohibition that we’ve know is ridiculous.”
“People are stupid. Alright? We wired fucked up. And if you tell us we can’t do something, that’s the thing we wanna do. That’s just how it is.”
“I think we’re seeing that with people in the news, when people do, like, the thing about that lady and the little kid, the little 8 year old just calling drops on them. … The thing that bummed me out the most is that they didn’t accept her apology.”