3 chapters across the catalog
Adam Gopnik argues that while Darwin toyed with the idea of separate human subspecies in The Descent of Man, he ultimately rejected it in favor of a single human race united by the evolved trait of sympathy. The hosts challenge this interpretation, citing Darwin's own words regarding the extermination of "savage races." They further critique the modern political left, suggesting that "sympathy" is often used as a mask for low expectations and inherent bias.
The hosts discuss how Hollywood uses "character archetypes" to progress social narratives over decades. They trace Queen Latifah's career from a positive rapper to a feminist in "House Party 2," a magazine owner in "Living Single," and finally "The Equalizer." They also mention Elizabeth Berkley's transition from the "smart girl" on "Saved by the Bell" to a stripper in "Showgirls" as a planned cultural shift.
A clip of a Black Vietnam veteran expresses frustration with "tokenism" and the government's failure to keep its word regarding justice and equality. The hosts conclude the 50th episode by emphasizing that the "revolution" begins with restoring the family unit and rejecting government charity. The show fades out with a celebratory discussion of the "big heel comeback" and a musical montage featuring a cover of The Carpenters' "We've Only Just Begun."
