#402 – Michael Malice: Thanksgiving Pirate Special

Michael Malice finds beauty in what he calls God's mistakes, which are grotesque and unusual creatures in the natural world. He shares his fascination with a particular creature, the peacock mantis shrimp, which has multiple legs, arms, claws, antennae, and incredible eyesight. Despite its terrifying appearance and strength, it is colorful and beautiful. Malice even had one as a pet, observing its unique behavior. This shows that beauty can be found in unexpected places and challenges our conventional notions of what is beautiful. It reminds us to appreciate the diversity and wonder of the natural world, even in its strange and unusual forms.

Humor serves as a relief and a way to cope with dark and intense subjects. Michael Malice explains that the humor lies in the absurdity of making fun of something that is already dark, creating a sense of relief for the audience. He emphasizes that the ability to make people laugh in such circumstances takes skill and timing. Additionally, he shares his own perspective on humor, mentioning how he sees it as a way to give people a little vacation from their troubles. He even expresses his desire for a roast-style funeral, where people can continue finding joy and laughter even after his passing. Ultimately, humor serves as a powerful tool for offering respite and finding joy in unlikely places.

Humor can be a powerful tool for resilience and connection, even in the most challenging circumstances. Michael Malice's experiences in North Korea and his observations about Russian humor highlight the ability of individuals to find joy and laughter in the face of adversity. Whether it's the Soviet Union, African Americans, Jewish Americans, or gay Americans, marginalized communities often contribute disproportionately to comedy because they have a unique perspective from the outside looking in. When you have nothing to lose, laughter becomes a means of finding happiness and creating bonds with others. This highlights the universal nature of laughter and its ability to transcend oppressive regimes and bring people together.

Comedians like Norm MacDonald and Neil Hamburger have a unique ability to connect directly with their audience. Their delivery and comedic timing make you feel like they're talking to you personally, and their witty remarks can make you feel like you're part of the inside joke. Whether it's Norm MacDonald's clever wordplay or Neil Hamburger's intentionally unfunny jokes, these comedians have a knack for breaking down barriers between themselves and the audience. Additionally, the story shared about Roseanne Barr highlights the impact these performers can have on people. Making someone like Roseanne Barr laugh is a special moment, showcasing the power of comedy to bring joy and create connections.

Having a close and loving family brings great joy and laughter to our lives. Michael Malice shares his gratitude for his family, particularly his nephews Lucas and Zach. He finds immense delight in their sense of humor and fun-loving nature. Sharing funny moments and engaging in pranks together creates cherished memories. Moreover, Michael appreciates his family's ability to go along with jokes and not take things too seriously. Their lightheartedness and willingness to embrace humor is something he values greatly. This highlights the importance of fostering a sense of humor within families, as it brings happiness, connection, and a positive outlook on life.

Humor and wordplay play significant roles in Russian language and culture. The ability to make clever references to literature and poetry adds depth and richness to conversations. Russians often use witty banter and little jokes as icebreakers when meeting strangers, allowing for immediate connection and conversation. This is not a common practice in American culture, which tends to rely more on small talk. Additionally, the relationship between a person and their parents, particularly the father, has a profound impact on their identity and life journey. Whether positive or challenging, this relationship shapes who they become. Ultimately, it is important to recognize and appreciate the lessons and influences from our parents, even if the approval or validation may not always be present.

Cynicism is a harmful mindset that leads to giving up and believing that everything sucks. Michael Malice emphasizes the importance of focusing on the things that are good and have the power to change our lives, such as books, movies, comedians, shows, and music. Even in the midst of terrible things, there are often beautiful moments to be found. While it is true that not everything is good, it is crucial to recognize and appreciate the positive aspects. The conversation also highlights the significance of pursuing one's passions and being grateful for the ability to make a living doing what we love.

Building and maintaining meaningful friendships plays a crucial role in combating feelings of loneliness and isolation. Both Lex Fridman and Michael Malice express the importance of having people they admire and care about in their lives. They acknowledge the negative impact of loneliness and emphasize the value of true connections. Moving to a new place can enhance the feeling of isolation, but having a network of friends can alleviate those feelings. Additionally, Fridman highlights the significance of books and audiobooks as sources of comfort and learning during lonely moments. He mentions historians like Sir Hew Strachan and Arthur Herman, who provide valuable insights through their unbiased writings. Ultimately, fostering friendships and seeking intellectual stimulation can greatly improve one's emotional well-being.

Historical writing that effectively presents data in an entertaining and readable way is the pinnacle of writing. Michael Malice expresses admiration for historians like Victor Sebastian and David Petru who have the ability to turn data into a compelling narrative that reveals who we are as people. He refers to this style of writing as the "Acme" of writing, using the term Acme from Bugs Bunny cartoons to convey the idea of something being top-notch. Malice also highlights the importance of not cheapening or misusing historical events like the Holocaust for political purposes and emphasizes the lessons to be learned about the extreme behavior of humans when pushed to their limits.

Humans have both a tribal nature and a capacity for goodness. While there are instances of derangement and the formation of outgroups, there is also a communal desire for good that outweighs hatred and anger. Despite our tribal instincts, there is evidence of humans being civil and amiable towards each other. However, this does not mean that goodness is inherent in every person, as it may be more unusual than the norm. There are profound acts of goodness that can be extremely emotional, but they are not present in every individual. Nonetheless, the world seems to be filled with incredible creation and accomplishments, suggesting that the power of goodness is prevailing over the bad.

Contemporary art is not all ugly or abstract, as some may believe. There are many young artists out there trying to create beauty and bring joy into people's lives through their work. While there may be pieces that are not great, very rarely are they disgusting or gross. It's important to recognize and appreciate the effort these artists put into their creations. Many galleries showcase affordable artwork that is accessible to everyone, allowing individuals to support these talented artists. So, if you ever doubt the value of contemporary art, take a look at galleries or websites that feature these works and you may be pleasantly surprised by the beauty and joy they can bring.

The beauty of stand-up comedy lies not just in making people laugh, but in the act itself. It's about taking risks, going for it, and embracing the human spirit. Even in small comedy clubs or open mic nights with only a handful of people in the audience, comedians still give it their all. This reminds us of the importance of pursuing our passions and finding joy in what we love, regardless of external circumstances or the opinions of others. It also serves as a reminder to appreciate the efforts of individual artisans and creators who bring unique and beautiful things into the world, despite any cynicism or excuses that may exist. Ultimately, we can choose to focus on finding joy or making excuses, and comedy shows us the power of choosing joy.

Social media can have both positive and negative effects on society. On one hand, it allows people to make connections and stay in touch with others who share similar interests or hobbies, creating a sense of community. It also serves as a platform to expose corporate dishonesty and hold organizations accountable. However, social media can also be a breeding ground for hate and bigotry, as seen with the rise of antisemitism and other forms of discrimination. To combat this, the ambassador program is suggested, where individuals become ambassadors of their own communities, breaking down stereotypes and promoting understanding. Ultimately, it is up to individuals to use social media responsibly and promote positive change.

Religious faith can have a positive impact on individuals, leading them to become better human beings and live more consciously. While it is true that some religious individuals may use their faith to justify bad behavior, it is incorrect to claim that religion never helps anyone. It is important to avoid sneering at religious people and instead recognize the personal and moral growth that faith can bring. Similarly, the quote from Karl Marx about religion promising riches in heaven to oppress the masses may not hold true in today's context. Additionally, it is crucial to not engage in cheap activist atheism and instead approach religious beliefs with respect and understanding.

Exporting ideas and culture plays a significant role in shaping international relationships. It not only brings people closer but also fosters a sense of friendship and adoption of values. This process serves as a powerful tool for spreading propaganda and influence. The United States has excelled in both the viral spread of ideas and military power, making it a dominant force globally. The popularity of American culture in Europe, such as music, TV shows, and movies, is not solely due to military presence but primarily a result of exporting these forms of entertainment. In the modern age, the battle of ideas holds more sway than military might, demonstrated by the persuasive influence of social media and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our existence on Earth is truly remarkable when considering the vast history of life forms that came before us. Reflecting on the billions of people and trillions of life forms that have preceded us, it's clear that we have something incredibly special here. This notion should inspire us to live life to the fullest, appreciating the privilege we have and honoring those who didn't have the same opportunities. It also reminds us to find joy in the present moment and make the most of our time here, as we won't always have the privilege to experience it. Additionally, when we engage in conversations and interviews, it's important to make individuals feel seen and heard, as this connection can truly bring out the best in them.

Finding passion in the unusual and embracing unique interests can bring immense joy and fulfillment. Michael Malice shares an example of meeting someone who breeds Guinea pigs and how his approach is to sit down and learn everything about it, as opposed to dismissing it as weird. Both Malice and Lex Fridman express their admiration for people who are passionate about their unusual hobbies and interests. This highlights the importance of being open-minded and embracing diversity in passions and pursuits. It also showcases the idea that hierarchy exists in various aspects of life, even in the Guinea pig breeding world, challenging the notion of complete egalitarianism. Overall, the key takeaway is to appreciate and engage with the passions and interests of others, even if they may seem unconventional.

Exploring new hobbies can bring joy and happiness to our lives. Michael Malice encourages everyone, especially men, to try the hobby of wet shaving. He highlights the best companies, such as Ion Skincare, barrister and man, Chiseled Face, Phoenix Shaving, and Katie's Bubbles, that offer high-quality products with unique scents. He emphasizes the fun and diverse experiences that come with trying different soap scents, some of which smell like familiar things like Swedish fish or a cup of noodles. Through his own experience, he found happiness in this hobby, which was introduced to him by his friend Cole. So, sometimes, it's worth diving into new interests to discover unexpected happiness and fulfillment.

We have the power to improve ourselves in various aspects of life. We don't have to aim for greatness right away; instead, we can strive to be better versions of ourselves. By setting realistic goals and measuring our progress, we can feel a sense of accomplishment and motivate ourselves to keep going. It's important to remember that making mistakes and facing challenges is a natural part of growth. We shouldn't be afraid to try new things and learn from failures. Additionally, it's crucial to accept that life has its ups and downs, and it's okay to feel low at times. By embracing these ups and downs, we can develop resilience and inner strength. Ultimately, living a fulfilling life boils down to making meaningful contributions and being a positive presence in the world.

Loyalty and trust are highly valued by both Michael Malice and Lex Fridman. They agree that betrayal is a difficult pill to swallow, and it can deeply impact relationships and one's own sense of guilt. While Malice sympathizes with those who betray, he finds it hard to empathize with their actions. Fridman, on the other hand, sees the good in people but acknowledges that trust can be broken, and it breaks his heart when it happens. Despite this, they both find beauty in the world and appreciate the connections they have with each other. Overall, loyalty and trust play a significant role in their personal and professional lives.