Emily Levine: A theory of everything

The speaker humorously explores the themes of comedy, contradiction, and societal norms, discussing how these elements shape our understanding of reality. They delve into the role of science and rationality, highlighting the contradictions within these fields. The talk also examines objectivity and political correctness, using humor to critique societal structures. The speaker introduces the trickster archetype as a change agent, emphasizing boundary crossing and interactivity as tools for transformation. The talk concludes with reflections on the balance between preparation and spontaneity in creating impactful change.

What is the speaker's preferred topic of discussion?

• Topics they know little about

• Topics about history

• Topics they are experts in

• Topics related to science

What societal tendency does the speaker highlight?

• Building on others' realities

• Contradicting others' realities

• Ignoring others' realities

• Accepting others' realities

What is Ayn Rand's philosophy known as?

• Subjectivism

• Empiricism

• Relativism

• Objectivism

How does the speaker view political correctness?

• As unnecessary

• As sometimes excessive

• As always beneficial

• As irrelevant

What does the speaker say about the role of the stand-up comedian?

• To entertain without dominating

• To dominate the audience

• To avoid interaction

• To follow the audience's lead

What contradiction does the speaker find in public opinion polls?

• Few people know the effect of global events

• Few people think Alaska is part of Canada

• Most people know the effect of global events

• Most people think Alaska is part of Canada

What does the speaker say about rationality in arguments?

• It is constructed by a mind-body split

• It is universally accepted

• It is based on emotional responses

• It is irrelevant in arguments

What is a key quality of the trickster according to the speaker?

• Staying within boundaries

• Crossing boundaries

• Maintaining status quo

• Avoiding change

What does the speaker hope to achieve by making connections?

• To reinforce existing beliefs

• To entertain without purpose

• To short circuit people's thinking

• To confuse the audience

What does the speaker say about the trickster's home?

• The trickster has a permanent home

• The trickster is always on the road

• The trickster avoids travel

• The trickster stays in one place