JRE #1882 – Iliza Shlesinger

by

13-Oct-22







This podcast features comedian Iliza Shlesinger discussing her new book and Netflix special, as well as a variety of other topics. Provocative topics include the dangers of fentanyl, cancel culture, social credit scores, and the downsides of social media. Underlying themes explore the importance of critical thinking, freedom of speech, and the complexities of navigating the modern world.

Topics

Iliza Shlesinger’s New Book and Netflix Special

  • Iliza Shlesinger’s new book “All Things Aside: Absolutely Correct Opinions” and Netflix special “Hot Forever” both premiere on October 11th.
  • The book is a collection of personal essays, while the special features Shlesinger’s stand-up comedy.
  • Shlesinger expresses excitement for the release of both projects.
  • The podcast provides insights into the creative process behind these projects.

The Dangers of Fentanyl

  • Fentanyl is currently the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 18 and 49.
  • The dangers of fentanyl being mixed into drinks without the victim’s knowledge are discussed.
  • The conversation explores the motives of people who drug others with fentanyl, debating whether it is done for malicious intent or for a thrill.
  • The discussion highlights the vulnerability of people who may be unknowingly drugged, emphasizing the importance of being cautious and aware of surroundings.

Cancel Culture

  • Cancel culture is explored as a modern phenomenon where individuals or entities are ostracized online for past actions or statements, often amplified by social media.
  • The podcast discusses the potential dangers of cancel culture, questioning whether the punishment always matches the crime and expressing concern over the erosion of forgiveness and second chances.
  • The conversation acknowledges the existence of individuals who deserve to be held accountable for egregious actions, but also highlights the potential for online mobs to become overly zealous and seek to ruin lives based on minor mistakes or misjudgments.
  • The podcast emphasizes the need for nuance and critical thinking when engaging in online discourse, highlighting the dangers of mob mentality and the importance of contextualizing actions and statements.

Social Credit Scores

  • The podcast explores the concept of social credit scores, a system where individuals are assigned a numerical rating based on their behavior and actions.
  • The discussion examines the potential dangers of a social credit score system, highlighting the possibility of being penalized for expressing dissenting opinions or engaging in behaviors deemed undesirable by those in power.
  • The conversation draws parallels to the current system in China, where social credit scores are used to regulate citizen behavior and restrict access to services and opportunities.
  • The podcast emphasizes the importance of protecting individual freedoms and privacy in the digital age, underscoring the need to be wary of potential government overreach and the erosion of personal autonomy.

The Downsides of Social Media

  • The podcast delves into the negative aspects of social media, discussing its impact on mental health, fostering a culture of outrage, and promoting unrealistic expectations.
  • The conversation highlights the potential for social media to create a distorted view of reality, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between curated online personas and authentic human experiences.
  • The podcast addresses the commodification of nostalgia on platforms like TikTok, where users are bombarded with images and memories that evoke a sense of longing for a simpler past, often curated by individuals who never lived through those experiences.
  • The discussion underscores the need for critical thinking and discernment when consuming content online, highlighting the dangers of succumbing to social media’s addictive nature and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between online and offline experiences.

The Importance of Critical Thinking

  • The podcast emphasizes the value of critical thinking in navigating the complex and rapidly evolving landscape of the modern world.
  • The conversation encourages listeners to be skeptical of information presented online, particularly from biased sources and those seeking to manipulate public opinion.
  • The podcast highlights the importance of seeking out multiple perspectives and diverse sources of information when forming opinions on important issues.
  • The discussion encourages listeners to be aware of their own biases and to engage in thoughtful and respectful discourse with others who hold different viewpoints.

Freedom of Speech

  • The podcast celebrates the freedom of speech as a cornerstone of American democracy, acknowledging the importance of being able to express dissenting opinions and challenge authority.
  • The conversation underscores the responsibility that comes with freedom of speech, emphasizing the need to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue even when disagreeing with others.
  • The podcast discusses the dangers of censorship and the suppression of dissenting voices, highlighting the potential for government overreach and the erosion of individual liberties.
  • The conversation emphasizes the importance of being able to hold those in power accountable and to speak truth to power, even when it is unpopular or inconvenient.

Navigating the Modern World

  • The podcast explores the challenges of navigating the complexities of the modern world, marked by rapid technological advancements, political polarization, and social unrest.
  • The conversation acknowledges the importance of fostering a sense of community and connection in a world increasingly dominated by social media and digital platforms.
  • The podcast highlights the need to be aware of the potential dangers of information overload, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and creating a healthy balance between online and offline experiences.
  • The discussion encourages listeners to remain hopeful and engaged in the world, reminding them that they have the power to make a positive impact on their communities and on the world at large.

Memorable Quotes

  • “I don’t love doing this, but other people like that I do it, and that’s why you’re fucking depressed.” – Iliza Shlesinger humorously acknowledges the potential for social media to negatively impact mental health.
  • “If you truly did, like, nothing really wrong, they’ll move on. But if you’ve ever argued with someone in a comment section, you know that that attracts more of them.” – Shlesinger highlights the addictive nature of online discourse and the tendency for online mobs to escalate conflicts.
  • “The most important thing is that we all try to do better, then everybody tries to do better in their lives.” – Shlesinger emphasizes the importance of striving for personal growth and improvement, even in the face of imperfection.
  • “We don’t allow for context. We don’t allow for conversation. And that’s on the left and the right, and it’s just in general.” – Shlesinger critiques the tendency for online discourse to become polarized and devoid of nuance.
  • “The fact that I’m allowed to sit here and say whatever the fuck I want and there’s not secret police outside, Yeah. Is a beautiful thing.” – Shlesinger expresses gratitude for the freedom of speech in the United States.


 

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