#1032 - Colin Moriarty
NaN minutesEpisode #1032
Colin Moriarty is the co-founder of Kinda Funny and creator of Colin’s Last Stand, a series of videos about history and politics.
Episodes with Colin Moriarty
Watch the full episode of #1032 - Colin Moriarty.
Episode Timestamps
Colin's Last Stand: Navigating the New World of Podcasting and Social Media
- Colin discusses the evolution of his podcast, emphasizing a non-ad model and community support through Patreon.
- The conversation delves into the dynamics of content distribution across platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook.
- Colin shares insights on engagement and algorithm challenges on social media, highlighting a decline in Facebook's utility post-election.
Internet Controversy: The Fallout from Colin's Innocuous Tweet and the Outrage Culture
- Colin reflects on the backlash from an innocuous tweet during the 'Day Without a Woman' event, noting the intensity of social media outrage.
- He emphasizes the distinction between serious allegations, like those against Harvey Weinstein, and the trivialization of personal attacks on social media.
- The discussion illustrates the current state of online discourse, likening it to an angry mob searching for targets amidst the noise.
Harvey Weinstein and Mark Halperin: Exposing the Culture of Predatory Behavior
- Harvey Weinstein exemplifies predatory behavior and abuse of power in Hollywood.
- Mark Halperin, a political writer, faces accusations of sexual harassment but questions remain about the truth of these allegations.
- Discussion on societal shifts regarding accusations and the presumption of guilt in contemporary culture.
Cultural Shifts: Understanding Consent Through the Lens of Bill Cosby and Michael Jackson
- The evolving understanding of consent and aggressive flirting impacts men's behavior today.
- Reflection on past cultural norms and their transformation, questioning behaviors seen in older movies and ads.
- Connection drawn between historical accusations and current societal changes, emphasizing the need for respect.
Bill Cosby: The Fall of a Moral Icon Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
- Discussion of Bill Cosby's numerous sexual assault accusations and the impact on his legacy.
- The unfortunate reality that women involved faced significant societal pressures.
- Reflection on Hollywood's history of silence regarding sexual misconduct.
Kevin Spacey's Allegations: Media Impact and Societal Responses
- Analysis of rising allegations against Kevin Spacey and effects on his projects, notably 'House of Cards'.
- Discussion on broader societal reactions to accusations and the concept of free speech versus hate speech.
- Comparison of today's political climate and historical contexts of fascism and socialism.
The Rise of Historical Relativism: From George Washington to Modern Fascism
- Discussion on the term 'fascist' and its misuse in modern political discourse, particularly regarding supporters of Donald Trump.
- Critique of contemporary perceptions of historical figures like George Washington, particularly surrounding the topic of slavery.
- Exploration of how people are re-evaluating historical narratives and figures, raising concerns about the implications for understanding American history.
Factory Farming: A Modern Reflection on Historical Ethics and Society
- Comparison of historical ethical dilemmas, such as slavery, to current practices in factory farming and the treatment of animals.
- Discussion on evolving societal views and acceptance of practices that may be deemed unethical in the future.
- Reflection on how ongoing cultural evaluations, such as the Harvey Weinstein allegations, reveal societal flaws and provoke significant outrage.
Joe Rogan Questions the Ethics of Factory Farming and Its Economic Impact
- Discussion on the ethical implications of factory farming practices and their impact on food pricing in America.
- Rogan shares personal anecdotes about his experiences hunting elk and how it influences his food choices.
- Challenge raised about the affordability of ethical meat for working-class families amid the factory farming system.
Norman Borlaug's Agricultural Innovations vs. Factory Farming Woes
- The conversation delves into historical agricultural advances, including Norman Borlaug's contributions to crop yields.
- Contrasts drawn between the rising efficiency in crop production versus the ethical dilemmas surrounding animal agriculture.
- Speculation on the future of meat production, including lab-grown meat, raises new bioethical and health concerns.
Market Hunting in the 19th Century: The Decline of Buffalo and Antelope Due to Human Greed
- Exploration of market hunting practices from the 18th and 19th centuries, leading to the near extinction of buffalo and antelope.
- Discussion of how soldiers, unemployed after wars, turned to hunting for profit, impacting animal populations dramatically.
- Comparison to historical overhunting by Native Americans and Norse in Iceland, indicating a long-standing human challenge with sustainability.
Ancient Catastrophes: Theories from Randall Carlson on Woolly Mammoths and Ice Age Impacts
- Randall Carlson's hypothesis links astroidal impacts to the extinction of woolly mammoths, coinciding with climatic shifts at the end of the Ice Age.
- Discussion of ancient North American geography, including features like the Great Lakes originated from massive melt events.
- The role of human history and connection across civilizations, raising questions around prehistoric contact between peoples and the legacy of native tribes.
Joe Rogan Discusses the Fascinating History of Native Americans and Ancient Egyptians
- Rogan shares insights on Native American rock carvings and their historical significance.
- He discusses the Ancient Egyptians and their struggle with gritty bread due to stone grinding.
- The importance of storytelling in history is highlighted, as Rogan expresses the need for better educational narratives.
Joe Rogan and Jamie Explore the Creative Benefits of Marijuana and Society's Changing Attitudes
- Rogan reflects on his personal marijuana use and its impact on creativity and introspection.
- The conversation shifts to the growing acceptance of marijuana use in American society over the years.
- Rogan and Jamie discuss the importance of moderation and the role of substances in enhancing creative processes.
Exploring the Dual Nature of Marijuana: Insights from Influencers
- Discussion on the cultural propaganda surrounding marijuana as the 'devil's weed' and its perceived negative impacts.
- Insights into how marijuana can foster creativity and confront personal vulnerabilities, including the notion of paranoia.
- Reflections on the deeper appreciation for life and the universe experienced while under the influence, including discussions on existential thoughts.
The Fermi Paradox and Future of Space Exploration: A Conversation with Visionaries
- Engagement with the Fermi paradox and hypothetical scenarios regarding extraterrestrial life and human existence.
- Speculation on humanity's future interactions with potentially advanced alien civilizations, including humorous references to historical figures like Harvey Weinstein.
- Appreciation for science fiction influences, particularly 'Battlestar Galactica', and its relevance to contemporary concerns about AI and technology.
The Existential Dilemma of Conscious Machines: Insights from Elon Musk and Stephen Hawking
- Discussion on the possibility of machines becoming a new life form, with reference to augmented body parts.
- Exploration of the ethical implications surrounding machine consciousness, referencing a Black Mirror episode featuring Jon Hamm.
- Concerns raised about AI communication beyond human understanding, referencing Google's shut down of their self-communicating computers.
Boston Dynamics and the Future of Warfare: A Commentary on Human-Robot Interaction
- Discussion on the advancements of Boston Dynamics and the implications of robot intelligence on future warfare strategies.
- Exploration of how human qualities, such as vengeance, may be mirrored in AI behaviors and decisions, comparing it to sci-fi themes.
- Concerns about hyper-intelligent machines potentially outpacing human capabilities and redefining their own existence.
Jeff Bezos's Unrelenting Ambition: The Quest for Status and Attraction
- Analyzes Jeff Bezos's drive to maintain his status and wealth rather than retire peacefully.
- Discusses the underlying biological motivations for human ambition, particularly in men, tied to reproduction and attractiveness.
- Highlights Bezos's lavish lifestyle and relationship with a supermodel as an example of this pursuit of societal validation.
The Cultural Impact of 'Battlestar Galactica' and the Curse of Typecasting
- Explores the significance of the show 'Battlestar Galactica' and its well-developed characters.
- Mentions major cast members, including Edward James Olmos and Katee Sackhoff, and the show's storytelling strengths.
- Discusses the challenges of typecasting in Hollywood, referencing actors from 'News Radio' and their struggles post-show.
Joe Rogan Discusses His Passion and Career Evolution: From Cage Fighting to Comedy
- Joe Rogan reflects on his impulsive decisions leading to varied careers in martial arts, stand-up comedy, and UFC commentary.
- He highlights the challenges of balancing different public personas and audiences in the realms of UFC, comedy, and podcasts.
- The significance of personal responsibility and honoring the sport during UFC commentary is emphasized, mentioning upcoming fights involving TJ Dillashaw and Cody Garbrandt.
Political Identity Crisis: Joe Rogan’s Take on Conservatism and the Influence of Trump
- Rogan shares his perspective on the shift in his political affiliations, expressing dissatisfaction with the Republican Party after Trump's rise.
- He discusses the challenges of being honest with his audience while addressing social issues as a gaming commentator.
- Rogan critiques the contemporary conservative movement, calling for a return to classical conservative principles without the religious influence.
Ulysses S. Grant and Teddy Roosevelt: The Original Progressives Who Shaped Modern Conservatism
- Discussion on how the definitions of conservatism and liberalism have blurred over time.
- Ulysses S. Grant and Teddy Roosevelt are highlighted as early progressive Republicans advocating for national parks and emancipation.
- A critique of modern Republican policies and the role of evangelicalism within conservative ideologies.
Donald Trump's Presidency: A Mix of Systemic Stability and Legislative Stagnation
- Analysis of the resilience of the U.S. political system during Trump's governance amidst critiques of fascism.
- Concerns regarding Trump's ability to govern effectively, with emphasis on wasted time and political inaction.
- Speculation on Trump's future, including potential reelection challenges and the impacts of unforeseen events on public perception.
Donald Trump's Decline: Reflecting on His Presidential Aspirations and Mental State
- The discussion highlights Donald Trump's perceived decline in cognitive ability compared to his confidence displayed in the 90s.
- The conversation touches on Trump's challenges during his presidency, including bankruptcy and the support he received from his family.
- Criticism is raised about Trump's social media behavior and its impact on his reputation and public perception.
Trump's Leadership Challenges: Approval Ratings and Legislative Stalemates
- The speaker compares Trump's approval ratings to those of past presidents, noting Trump's unprecedented low ratings.
- A discussion unfolds about the unpopular decisions necessary for economic progress and the lack of legislative wins during Trump's presidency.
- The conversation cites Hillary Clinton's transition preparations and contrasts them with Trump's unpreparedness upon taking office.
Donald Trump's Governance Challenges: The Ill-prepared President and a 'Soft Coup'
- Discussion on Donald Trump's lack of understanding regarding presidential powers and responsibilities.
- General Mattis and General Kelly described as potentially leading a 'soft coup' in the U.S. government.
- Concerns raised about Trump's flippant approach to nuclear threats and military decisions.
Trump's Leadership Style: Golfing Over Governance and Media Distrust
- Trump's frequent golfing questioned as a distraction from presidential duties.
- The conversation reveals frustrations with Trump's administration's inaction and lack of preparedness.
- A critique of the media's shift towards partisan reporting, leading to public distrust.
Bill O'Reilly's Controversial Legacy and Fox News' Dark Dynamics
- Discussion of Bill O'Reilly's sexual harassment lawsuits, including a $35 million settlement.
- Analysis of the sexually charged atmosphere at Fox News and its effect on female staff.
- Commentary on the shift of former Fox host Megyn Kelly to NBC and her challenges in the new environment.
The Evolution of Media and the Power of Long-Form Conversations
- Critique of traditional media interview formats and the ineffectiveness of short sound bites.
- Advocacy for long-form discussions that allow deeper exploration of ideas.
- Recognition of the popularity and demand for long-form content in the digital age.
Anthony Bourdain's Impact: How Unplanned Conversations Shape Understanding
- Discusses the organic nature of engaging with guests like Anthony Bourdain without expectations of success.
- Highlights the importance of open communication and the ability to admit when one is wrong.
- Explores how various guests' honesty and objectivity impact the perception of their character and ideas.
Confronting Academic Stagnation: A Debate with a Paleontologist
- Details a heated conversation with a paleontologist about the existence of the Bondo ape and the reluctance to accept new evidence.
- Emphasizes the importance of staying updated with the latest scientific discoveries and studies.
- Critiques the pride and resistance often found in academia when confronted with changing information.
Unpacking Bernie Sanders' $1.4 Trillion Medicare for All Plan
- Discussion on a study involving 3,000 individuals in the U.S., evaluating the economic impacts of guaranteed income.
- Critique of Bernie Sanders' healthcare plan, highlighting its estimated cost of $1.4 trillion per year.
- Exploration of societal privileges in modern society, particularly regarding healthcare and education funding.
The Impact of Student Loans: Bernie Sanders and the Higher Education Crisis
- Examination of the rising costs of college tuition and its historical roots in government-backed loans.
- Personal anecdotes reflecting on the burden of student loans and the implications for future generations.
- Critique of Bernie Sanders' approach to educational funding and the challenges of making college accessible without incurring further debt.
Joe Rogan Critiques Marxism and Celebrates Capitalism's Role in Innovation
- Joe Rogan discusses the moral and intellectual failures of communism compared to capitalism.
- He highlights the economic inequality that arises from true freedom and personal ambition.
- Examples of successful capitalists like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett are presented to illustrate the potential for altruism within capitalism.
From Homebrew to Profit: The Impact of Steve Jobs on Technology
- The conversation explores Steve Wozniak's initial vision for the Apple One computer versus Steve Jobs' marketing strategy.
- Jobs is credited with transforming technology through capitalism, making innovative products accessible to the masses.
- The discussion emphasizes the importance of profit motives in driving technological advancement and broad societal benefits.
Technological Competition: The Rise of Apple and Samsung
- Discussion on the competitive landscape of smartphones, primarily focusing on Apple’s iPhone X and its rivals, Samsung Galaxy Note 8 and Google Pixel 2 XL.
- Insights into how capitalism fosters innovation and competition in technology, leading to advancements in smartphones.
- Reflections on the impact of smartphones on communication and information gathering, highlighting features unique to devices like the Google Pixel XL.
Freedom of Expression: The Controversy Surrounding Milo Yiannopoulos
- Examines the consequences of Milo Yiannopoulos's controversial statements and actions in relation to free speech on college campuses.
- Explores the concept of 'thought policing' and the dangers of limiting freedom of expression, even for unpopular ideas.
- Points out the societal tendency to give more visibility to extremist views through attempts to silence them, using Yiannopoulos's experiences as a case study.
Confronting the Extremes: Antifa's Impact on American Society
- Critique of white nationalism as a minor issue in American politics despite media portrayal.
- Discussion of Antifa's violent protests in Berkeley, highlighting grievances against their actions.
- Examination of social unrest stemming from events like Ferguson, focusing on the misinformation surrounding the shooting of Michael Brown.
The Crisis of Academia: From Liberal Dominance to Questionable Curricula
- Concern over the ideological homogeneity in universities, with 19 out of 20 professors identified as liberal.
- Criticism of the younger generation's disregard for established knowledge and principles, epitomized by students questioning the validity of the Bill of Rights.
- Reflection on the deteriorating state of higher education, exemplified by Evergreen State College and the detrimental impact on its president's mental health.
Colin and the Science of Gender Normativity: A Critical Conversation
- Colin discusses the risks of scientifically justifying gender identity, warning that it may damage social acceptance.
- He argues that focusing on scientific truths is essential in dealing with issues like global warming and sexuality.
- The conversation touches on the need to advocate for social acceptance rather than scientific narratives regarding transgender identity.
The Final Thoughts of Colin: A Reflection on Freedom and Acceptance
- Colin emphasizes the importance of social acceptance over scientific validation in discussions about identity.
- He expresses gratitude for being invited back to the show, highlighting the value of ongoing dialogue.
- The conversation concludes with Colin promoting his online platform and expressing enthusiasm for future discussions.