AMWDW: Past and Perspectives on Inability vs Ability

Support DRWolf on Patreon:
/ drwolf
Past Analysis's Channel:
/ thepastanalysis
Artwork provided by MrTomFox:
mrtomfox.devian...
My Little Pony Characters and Images belong to Hasbro.

[@sparkypchu]

By the way that each of the episodes ends, with the calming deep breath and "It's good to be helping", I'm expecting that there will be an episode when Dr. Wolf snaps and Fluttershy needs to be brought in to give him therapy.

[@mjrod316]

Okay, this is the best series I've seen so far. All others focus on action or jokes, but you Dr. Wolf, it actually looks like you're helping these people. You truly do seem like an amazing psychiatrist, and seeing you help these ponies gives me hope for the future. Keep being awesome.

[@cannedcream]

Loved the artwork for this one. My compliments to the artist. As for the video itself, it really impacted me more than any other thus far. I admit, I struggle with the same problems of trying not to care too much of what others think of me, and not putting my self worth on a scale set for others to judge. It's something I've been working on for years now, and it's just good to know that such a change as this DOES require a lot of time to improve. Makes me feel like the act isn't as hopeless as it sometimes feels.

[@mrtomfox]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked the art :)

[@ThadeasTheQuiet]

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” ―Albert Einstein

[@equestriaforever9595]

I'd prefer to see Dr Wolf looking like this.... In my opinion Dr Wolf looking like this, he looks.....professional. And he should continue this look. It suits him in my mind's eye.

[@ThePastAnalysis]

Just so you guys know, we didn't actually have me resolve a conflict. Similar to Voice of Reason's Moment with Dr.Wolf, we just brought up a conflict that more or less is there, and had a conversation on it. His was a comedy video, mine is a little more serious. Voice still hates/heavily dislikes Friendship is Witchcraft. I still think that earth ponies are seen as inferior by many bronies, and that we shouldn't create the arbitrary "gifted" labels. The whole stuff on caring about feeling insignificantly about others feedback was mostly exaggerated. Some of that stuff is true, but even still its changed a lot since the recording. I got this recording done over 2 months ago, so it has changed a bit.

[@blackfoundation2]

Unicorn master race pasta.

[@grunboy6172]

Pegasi a best race

[@zemorph42]

I don't see earth ponies as inferior, especially since they do have magic of their own, more subtle than that of the other types, but no less important or powerful. They often have to work harder than the others, but their contributions are at least as essential to Equestria as those of the pegasi and unicorns.

[@benjaminRhodesLEGO]

+Past Analysis WHAT ABOUT US DONKEYS! No one wants to be a Donkey. :((I would probably have my OC as my profile but in the middle of designing him I kinda broke my computer and curly hair is harder than it looks)

[@FillyFarm]

I forgot to mention on the previous video illustrated by this same artist: I love his art style! x3 And I felt SO identified with this, sheeesh, these video series are great! My pony-self it's also an earth pony, but not because I think they're the "weak" race, but because everything SEEMS to be more challenging to them, and that's how I feel most of the time, specially when it comes on doing and sharing what I love to do the most: drawing. I cannot help myself but to compare to those who I admire and secretly hoping for them to notice me or something... (and of course: hoping for people to love what I do too...). Anyhow! Another great video Dr.Wolf! :3 Kudos to the artist too ;)

[@mrtomfox]

Thank you very much, I'm glad you liked the art :)

[@FillyFarm]

mrtomfox I loved it!Ç So glad to know you've a YT account! :D **waves**

[@jshadowhunter]

Alas, for all their flaws, mortal beings are all prone to Pride, simply because it's so insidious. It is good, until it becomes bad; and when it does it is the most dangerous tool in the world. So at times, one needs to remind somebody about Humility. And its one of the reasons why I don't dislike Mysterious Maredowell, as other people do; drastic maybe, but it takes drastic measures to pull somebody from the top of their pedestal, regardless of how high or low it is, if that person is blinded by their own Pride to a point where it would hurt others.

[@TheBlueSunil]

I really love these little segments, they have such great morals.

[@BlessedCobra]

One of the best AMWDW so far, and it really struck home. I can relate extremely well with this one. I was a huge ***hole in middle school. I was extremely selfish and conceded, but never noticed it (one of my friends even called me out on it in elementary, but I denied it). I was bullied, which didn't help. I thought that most of the people around me were stupid. Even after I found mlp and its inspiring morals, I continued to be selfish and mean spirited. Then I started high school.I met a bunch of new people, all of which were kind and generous and all of that good stuff. It was nothing like my middle school. The atmosphere was so loving and friendly that it affected me too. I finally realized how cruel I was and started to change myself. It was a gradual process. Whenever I would look at how nice I was becoming, I would realize just how far I was from being kind. I still am, but I think I've come a long way, and have an even longer way to go. One of the best feelings in the world is the feeling you get when you've made a positive impact on someone's life. Second to that is the feeling you get when you know you did the right thing, even if no one else knows it. There will always be people that are better than you, but that shouldn't deter you from trying to better yourself, even if no one praises you for it. Maybe one day, you will be the person that inspired someone else to better themselves. Who knows? Maybe you already have.

[@DRWolf001]

Well Spoken Sir.

[@matthewpalumbo3934]

This is one I would love a lot of those in the special needs community to have a listen to. There is a lot to gleam from how you and Past and Perspective discuss feelings and positively acting upon them. In particular those that go with the anger I see regarding "Ableism" and "Entitlement". Therapy has taught me a lot in understanding how our society is filled with ignorance towards a lot of things. It also helped me to learn that cursing out or acting violently towards those who do not truly know otherwise accomplishes nothing. Hate begets hate. Actions also speak louder than words. I've learned from a lot of people with special needs how Tumblr seems a haven for misunderstanding. An endless dance between the ignorant and the frustrated. This ultimately results in nothing. It's a pity folks can't see the value in "If you don't have anything nice to say don't say it at all." I've been wronged through ignorance personally and professionally all my life. I used to get angry but it never resulted in anything positive. It was only when I began journaling my experiences openly for others to read and learn from that I honestly felt better about those struggles I endure as a blind person. I try my best to be as objective as possible while leaving names out as there is no good in demonizing anything publicly. Besides it takes away from the message of "This is what happened to me. This is what I learned from it. Be mindful this could happen to you and know I can offer some support or advice if you find yourself in a similar spot". "Hearth's Warming Eve" taught us the value of diversity. We all play our part whether it is big or small. Kindness and understanding will always win out in the end.

[@DRWolf001]

Well spoken sir.

[@danielcross4146]

I like the Fallout: Equestria perspective where technology progresses much faster amongst earth ponies because of their 'normalness'.

[@travish.4282]

Though I cannot say which race of the three is the best, or if there in fact is a best race, I believe that each race has their own set of attributes that make them special. Pegasi: they have wings and can tend to place themselves higher than those around them, but they do have the skill to back up their position. Unicorns: most are either stuck up or tend to keep to themselves, but they have more aptitude than others and that makes them only collaborate with their own race (except Twilight and Rarity of course). Earth Ponies: they cannot fly or use magic, but that is their greatest strength in itself! The tend to be more hardworking and friendly than the other two races! They do not need to feel less than the other two BECAUSE of their accomplishments! Thank you for that Doctor!

[@darcybriannatyler]

This video makes a lot of sense. Even though Earth ponies can't fly or do any magic, they are still important to the show.

[@ytsejam58]

I love that "*deep breath* it's good to be helping"

[@MadMunchkin]

My OC is an earth pony and I'm proud of that, but have every reason to be a unicorn because the unicorn is the national animal of Scotland. But in the show I related to the earth ponies more because of their down to earth life style. I made a few videos on the subject over on my channel and have lots of other videos on the subject of OCs.

[@DRWolf001]

I've actually watched a lot of the videos you've put together Mad Munchkin. Even some of the non-MLP related ones. And you do have quite the talent for getting your audience to think about media a little differently. Not to mention your impressive artwork that helps your videos to stand out. Have you ever considered doing a collab project? I've kind of made a habit out of including a lot of the other brony reviewers/analysts in my work. Let me know if you have any interest.

[@MadMunchkin]

DRWolf001 Why thank you, DRWolf. It's always great to get feed back. :) I've attempted a few collab projects but have had a few technical difficulties with them. However now I have a better understanding of editing (though still learning through trial and error admittedly) a collab project is definitely something I'd like to do. I like watching your videos with other reviewers/analysts and would be interested in a collab. Let me know what you'd like to discuss ect.

[@captainkate2258]

Mad Munchkin Indeed. I however have OC's in ALL races, though my one is a pegasus. I find it quite disgusting that ANYONE would put down the earth ponies, considering. I actually would have been an earth pony, if not for my like of equality, perfectionism and whatnot. I actually relate to earth ponies a bit, but pegasus was my choice not for coolness or athletic ability, but their free spirit. In that manner, practically anyone in the United States of America could be pegasus as they all value their freedom quite highly. And the people in places like, I dunno, china - could be earth ponies because of their practically stereotypical oneness with the land and things that grow. And someone like Benjamin Franklin could be a unicorn because of his scientific intuition. It's all down to preference really.

[@NO-ez6bv]

Mad Munchkin I dought I'll get a reply because this was 2 years ago but earth ponies do have magic

[@Spiritstar0]

to take a line from a favourite short of mine, "The clouds look angry because they are jealous. they're jealous of the stars. you see, stars can climb a thousand thousand times higher than those clouds could ever imagine . so, like all small-spirited and stupid beings, they believe that they can deny beauty by obscuring it"

[@Equus21]

I LOVE earth ponies....I think they're the best characters. :)

[@ThePastAnalysis]

^^ Bravo /)

[@SleepingSilentBelle]

What can I say, other than I do agree with you 100% Dr.Wolf. I've always taken a lead-by-example approach to heart, and I've done my utmost to live life that way. I can attest to finding happiness in the simple actions that comprise this sort of mentality, it's fulfilling in its own way. However, I have found that the results are sometimes very hard to see, because it is such a subtle approach where the changes it brings about happen quietly and slowly. Though, it does work. You will influence others through the respect you've earned with them. Not everyone will change, of course, and not everyone who changes will change solely because of you. But some will agree with you, and do their best to try and live up to those same qualities in their own way. You will have a small part in helping them understand each other as equals. That's not to say that there's no merit in calling people out when you think they are wrong, however if you can do it in a manner that is respectful and isn't just an attempt to belittle them and "put them in their place", then I think even when they ignore your voice and opinions, you will still feel a sense of accomplishment for what you have done. Anyway, great video Doc. You really are one of the only youtubers that makes me feel that writing these comments down is important. Thanks for always giving us viewers some insightful and thought-provoking topics.

[@DRWolf001]

Thank you for adding so much to the conversation. :)

[@MR-dc4od]

"Wanting what's easy instead of what's worthwhile." Wow. I mean, wow. That's... Wow.

[@DoodleDabble]

Great words of wisdom and a great argument. I've dealt with this, too.

[@EnigmaPrince101]

A bit complex and interesting for my taste, but I like it, and I can somewhat get behind on this. Good video

[@hyenaedits3460]

I'm considered "gifted" because of my IQ, but that just puts a lot of pressure on me. School is difficult for me for multiple reasons and even though my grades are generally in the 80s and above, I start to panic when I get a grade in the low 80s. My mom gets worried when I get a 79, even though a lot of kids at my school would kill for that grade. I slacked off a bit because of "senioritis" and had a bunch of overdue assignments, and Mom freaked out as if I had told her I was dropping out of school and joining a gang.

[@kendallonian9753]

To praise one person is not to tear down everyone else. Don't down a quart of pickle juice every time you see someone else have something good happen to them. However, once the receiver of the good thing actively tries to tear others down for not having it, that crosses a line and you can call them out for that.

[@deviantartdaylover1313]

love this... maid my day thanks

[@TheIndigoEclipse]

Where do I begin... Let's start with the idea of others getting more recognition/respect/rewards because of their traits, ie. sports/guitarist/money. No matter how we try to deny it, humans are animals. We have evolved to like certain traits that a person exhibits because they represent an alpha-male should have. Power, Popularity, Resources. A male with any of these traits, at it's primal core, is a leader type or offers the best benefit to a mate, his followers, and offspring. It's hard-coded into our culture. Now, I'm not saying it's right, but you cannot deny our species survived because we learned to seek out others with strong characteristics that helped a tribe live. The best advice is to understand that jocks, the skilled or the rich will gain more popularity and recognition, but don't let that prevent you from enjoying life. Live how you want to live, find your own circle of friends and supporters. Stressing over how popular or respected or skilled someone else is, will only make you miserable. You have to find a center to ground yourself around. A foundation to build a stronger self-image and it helps against feeling shaken when others try to bring you down. As for earth-ponies. I could do a whole article on why they have magic of their own. The show does give subtle nods to their gift, it's just not in your face like wings or horns.

[@TS2dethmonkey]

That feeling you don't do enough and you don't get enough attention or praise for your own gifts or ability to overcome disability (in essence, dependency on the opinions on others for self worth) . . . boy that issue rings true for me, but I better not say anything in detail, lest I say something I regret. Still, good video and I have found a lot of the comments on it so far to be interesting.

[@Doughboy123x]

I think the trouble is that the special capabilities are not demonstrated or explained enough.

[@Zodia195]

Wow, Pasta is normally so positive you wouldn't think he get angry. I guess that proves my point that 'still waters run deep'. Oh yeah I totally agree what you've said Dr. Wolf. It's become 2nd nature to me to see all perspectives in the matter and I never voice my opinion unless I feel the need to. Still, I do have those opinions (and at times, judgements), I just am very good at keeping them to myself because I know words can have a huge effect on someone.

[@MsFluffyninja7]

I always found earth ponies to be the most interesting ponies because I always figure that earth ponies have some form of magic to the earth and being super strong but I keep thinking about pinkie pie and all the stuff she can do she is like faster than rainbow dash and have can break the laws of physics which makes me think did pinkie tap into some weird magic that earth ponies could do or is pinkie the only one who can do this? Then cheese sandwich came and pretty much did what pinkie pie did so I wonder if earth ponies try hard enough could they tap into pinkies weird magic and literally break the laws of physics and become faster than any Pegasus on hooves

[@rhymebeat1142]

I think Pinkie and Cheese are the exceptions to the general rule and might not be considered earth ponies at all if we used a positive rather than a negative version of what earth ponies are. A standard earth pony is like Applejack, super strong, and able to control plants at an accelerated rate, my head canon is that all plant based potions must be brewed by earth ponies. Pinkie and Cheese seem to have some weird kind of magic completely different from normal earth pony magic. Notably Pinkie is clearly not as strong as AJ, and had real difficulty working on a farm. But we don't notice the ways earth ponies are special because we assuming they're regular ponies that can talk, in other words "not pegasi or unicorns."

[@MsFluffyninja7]

Kaitlyn McCaffrey Maybe Idk I always knew that earth ponies have magic tied to the earth but with pinkie I always wonder if she tap into some kind of physical magic and I always thought it's pinkie she has her magic then cheese sandwich appeared and I thought maybe every earth pony has the potential to tap into that magic but I know cheese is a male pinkie pie but it's just a random headcannon

[@Lori_P89]

To say that Earth Ponies don't use any magic is somewhat incorrect. Earth Pony hooves are magical, or rather, the magic from within comes out through their hooves if Word of Faust is to be taken into consideration. (also Alicorns have Earth Pony hooves, even if they can walk on clouds) Still I agree with Doctor Wolf on this one :)

[@ChaosServant-ll7pr]

Huh, A few tidbits about me, for the hell of it. -I actually have a gift of school not being hard for me and things have come naturally for me, but I don't go around and rub it in peoples faces. Heck, I'm actually the class clown and I joke around a lot and try to make people smile.

[@pippo17173]

I found that Earth ponies are equal to every pony here.

[@TheBeachCityCritic2250]

I don't care what bigger names think of what I make, they're just people after all so they're not on any higher level than I am. But the idea of feeling diminished because I have to put more effort into my work to yield the same results as someone who has a knack for it is an ever-present and relatable struggle for me. But anyway, Earth Ponies Rule ;)

[@Edgewalker001]

I wrote a wall of text, but youtube eated it. Anyhow, the bullet points was that earth ponies are stronger and tougher than the rest, and that they have the magical ability to promote plant growth.

[@DragoSonicMile]

I have an earth pony OC. This avatar is just his "Dragon Commander" form. ... Yes, I made that up on the spot. That doesn't make it any less true. ;)

[@dexterthoma867]

Dude I see where you're coming from I see myself as an alicorn I disable that lakorn because I was born paralyzed but I will not allow that to define me I live my life happiest I could be and that is my advice to you

[@alexanderszivy4153]

You gave good advice.

[@aguy17]

This resonates with me.

[@Dark_Tale_2077]

6:52 Prince Digi?

[@Oban2006]

this is your stuff :) Dr. seems like Past Analysis can learn from For Whom the Sweetie Belle Toils episode, i think thats what his lesson needs to be?

[@ThePastAnalysis]

Hehe, yeah. Though, you know we didn't actually have me resolve a conflict right? Similar to Voice of Reason's Moment with Dr.Wolf, we just brought up a conflict that more or less is there, and had a conversation on it. His was a comedy video, mine is a little more serious. Voice still hates/heavily dislikes Friendship is Witchcraft. I still think that earth ponies are seen as inferior by many bronies, and that we shouldn't create the arbitrary "gifted" labels. The whole stuff on caring about feeling insignificantly about others feedback was mostly exaggerated. Some of that stuff is true, but even still its changed a lot since the recording. I got this recording done over 2 months ago, so it has changed a bit.

[@Oban2006]

ok, I guess everyone ignored hearths warming eve stating that basically all races were equal. But ok i see what you mean. I never had a problem with it.

[@ThePastAnalysis]

Shadowtechnik I think this about the brony community, not the show. I believe racism or inferiority is largely nonexistent in Equestria.

[@Oban2006]

WHY ARE YOU TALIKNG TO ME IM NOT WORTHY

[@ThePastAnalysis]

Shadowtechnik I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to offend. :(

[@joshuamonson9973]

Wow....this kinda reminds me of a lot of things I said a couple years ago.

[@eddog6666]

Earth ponies do have special abilities that unicorns don't. The most common for earth ponies is the ability to grow any type of food. Now look at the two earth ponies in the mane 6. Applejack is stronger then Rainbow dash. She most likely had extra strength which she devoloped over time. Now look at pinkie. Her pinkie sense is an alarm. So she gets heads up if their may be a danger soon. Now look at maud pie. She was able to completely shatter a blouder with her front hooves. Applejack strengthen her back hooves, while maud strengthen her front hooves, Earth ponies do have magic, but it's more blended in. You just have to look harder to find it. And yes there may be some earth ponies with the same gift but it is unlikely.

[@mimszanadunstedt441]

Earth ponies prolly are stronger and have more energy. But crystal bat alicorn merponies ftw.

[@AussieGriffin]

I would love to get Past Analysis' take on griffons. A.G.

[@ThePastAnalysis]

Hey AussieGriffin, I'd love to give you my take on griffins. In general, I think they're pretty cool. I certainly want to see more griffons in the show and in Equestrian history. As you can see my opinions on them are kinda basic. Most of my opinions on most of the races are actually pretty basic. My supreme interest is in earth ponies, but besides that I don't have many strong opinions about the races. More of what I was talking here, had to do with my issues with the brony communities view of earth ponies. For example, some think "unicorns are the 'intelligent' type and earth ponies aren't." Since that isn't supported in the show for me, I find that statement pretty racist.

[@AussieGriffin]

Hey, there's prejudice against mules in the show too, like when Rainbow Dash is distributing flyers in Hurricane Fluttershy. Still, I dig what you're saying. Broad Biceps showed us that Pegasi aren't always slight of build, though we'd already seen that in Sonic Rainboom. Luna shows us that Alicorns are prone to bad tempers, earning hugs and fans for her faults. Me? I look forward to seeing the neighboring lands and peoples... perhaps I should start a petition to Hasbro? A.G.

[@TheRoyalHarmony]

DR.Wolf had you ever thoght of doing more "bettering yourshelf" videos

[@DRWolf001]

What do you have in mind?

[@TheRoyalHarmony]

DRWolf001 Looking at the episode Pinkie Pride, Pinkie at wanted to give untrl she reminder, why she's a party pony to begin with, after watching it, I reminder there i lost of thing i give up on for simitar reasons, so is there a way that after many years, should someone try to get back into something

[@FoxofMaysville]

Earth Ponies are not weak. If you look, most of them are into growing food or cooking food. I mean, even A.J.is a farmer and Pinky is a bakery. Then there are the engineer and construction ponies who are mostly earth ponies. All the jobs take long, hard hours of work. Also have you ever seen all the old ponies are earth ponies. Do the other two races die off faster?

[@Blazah99]

so DRWolf001, just looking at this vid's possible foreshadowing, will Tommy or Digi be on the show?

[@DRWolf001]

I haven't asked either of them about making an appearance. But perhaps I'll get the chance to chat with them during BronyCon.

[@mushroomocean5177]

Dear Dr. Wolf, I have a question that, in a way, has to do with with the topic at hoof. Ever since I joined the brony fandom I've been trying to figure out what race of pony I would most likely be. I've always seen each race having very specific attributes physically and mentally. So with this I'm at a loss. I've been told I'm a Pegasus but I feel like I'm more of an earth pony. So I guest what I'm asking is should I depend my decision on my personality or just what I want to be?

[@DRWolf001]

You're asking that question to someone who decided against having any kind of Pony OC? When I was first offered the option of having a Pony designed for me by an artist, I was intrigued by the idea. But given that there are already soooo very many other Pony OCs in the fandom, I had a hard time trying to figure out how to make my character unique. I ended up going with a Wolf character, because I wanted to stand out. And it has worked very well for me. For you though, I would recommend that you put together something that you feel fits with who you are. Regardless of what others tell you. Naturally, I'm sure that a lot of us would like to design a character of who we would like to be. Someone awe-inspiring in some way. I ended up creating a character with no magic. No wings. No physical attributes of note. But I still stand out. Because I am being myself. People will always want to exaggerate a character in what they would like to be. I would suggest that you create a character who you are now. Something that reminds you of how much you have grown, but also of how much you can still grow. Let me know what you think.

[@mushroomocean5177]

Yeah, I understand what you're saying. Like you I want a character that stands out which is why I don't want a Pegasus OC. I love earth ponies and there connection with the earth. They seem so strong and powerful and I look up to them in a way. Thank you for helping me doctor! :)

[@dreammirrorbrony1240]

I think the Maud Pie episode goes a long way to showing the "magic" of earth ponies--their special connection to earth and the amazing things that earth ponies can do if they strive hard enough and have the natural talent to achieve. Don't forgot, Applejack by hard work alone, is one of the best athletes in Ponyville, giving even Rainbow Dash a run for her money when the wings are taken out of the equation. Life isn't about fairness--not everyone is born with the same abilities, circumstances or resources, but how we deal with the hand we are dealt is sometimes more important than the end result. Rainbow dash is fast--there is no doubt about it. But she isn't unique; there are many, many pegasuses in Equestria, but her burning desire is to be the BEST, and she works for that end every day of her life. Hard work & ethics is what defines Rainbow dash to me, not her natural abilites. If pure speed was all the Wonderbolts wanted, then Rainbow Dash would be a wonderbolt. They clearly want more from their candidates however, and she knows this & wants more too. Its one reason I respect Rainbow Dash so much.

[@TheIndigoEclipse]

I had a big, thought out post about special treatment and society, and now it's missing? Seriously?

[@KRPeart]

Earth ponies aren't useless and/or not special... There are not only one of the first breed of ponies to walk on their planet but there also the can also be the most strongest (In body like.) Just look at Big Mac and how buff of a pony he is! If he had wings he'll never get off the ground!(Un lease he had bigger wings but that would get to tiring to fly with...) Earth ponies are born with bigger bones so just imagine what they can do tho help in society!They could use their strengths to help make buildings!Ever pony is amazing and beautiful in their own way... (P.S. My HC is that ponies with wings are born with hollow bones just like owls to help them fly faster and higher.)

[@akmalsy159]

Personally, I don't think the labels of 'gifted' or any other special treatment inherently bad or should be changed. If any of these 'gifted' people act badly due to these labels, it was actually the fault of the person People may use various excuses to justify bad actions, not just with 'gifted' label, 'failure' or 'loser' label may also cause such actions, but ultimately it falls upon the person to use them in a positive or negative direction.

[@MoonlitNovel]

Whilst my ponified self is a Unicorn, it is more the fact that I do not see myself as STRONG as an Earth pony, nor as AGILE as a Pegasus, but I do have smarts, and as my name suggests I am a writer. However I don't see an Earth pony writing a lot or as often as I do, hence another reason why I am an unicorn. I don't see ay of the races as BETTER than one or the other, but I do see them as having their own strengths and weaknesses, no Unicorn or Pegasus is going to be as strong as an Earth pony, and no Earth pony or Unicorn is going to be as agile as a pegasus. I also think that Unicorn are sort of a middle ground between those two skills whilst emplifying(sp?) intelligence

[@Abyssal86]

I'd always thought that earth ponys are physically stronger, faster (on land), and tougher than the others. AJ can keep her own with RD on foot, Pinkie Pie can out run RD, Big Mac can pull houses, and Maud can punch through solid stone.

[@KenichiShimerugi]

I think that the problem is that we recognize that they are stronger, but in a world where the only people going on expeditions seem to be the Earth ponies, they don't seem to have a place in developed populations. Exceptions like Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, and the Oranges show up from time to time, but outside of strength and growing/harvesting (almost exclusively from farmers: Applejack, Big Mac, Maud, and Pinkie all grew up on farms), there seems to be no other traits that we could definitively say "Yeah, that's something that Earth ponies have." that said, there is the "sense" that both Pinkie and Cheese Sandwich share, but Pinkie's own is a warning system for immediate danger and Cheese's helps his vagrant journey to provide the best parties across Equestria. I don't know about Earth Pony Magic, since it hasn't been brought up in show and I am just catching up on the comic, but I cannot see Earth ponies using magic, since they made such a big fuss about it in Winter Wrap-up. TL;DR version, Strength has been hammered into these ponies' traits and I'd like to see why these ponies are considered equals amongst fliers and magic-users outside of 'they can move boulders'. PS: I love earth ponies

[@Abyssal86]

As far as I know earth pony "magic" can be boiled down to simply knowing more about plants and potions, but then you have Zecora who wipes the floor with them when it comes to potions/mysticism/knowledge of the natural world, I can't say that that is a zebra specific thing though seeing as Zecora is the only zebra to display that so far.

[@mikelewis7709]

Earth ponies are more muscular, and big boned, which makes them better at (most) physical activities. Take Applejack, and Rainbow Dash for example. If Rainbow tried to do Applejacks job an the farm, she would not accomplish as much, because she is not as muscular, and she is better at flying than she would be bucking apples.

[@TheCoffeeBird]

I have to disagree on that earth ponies have been viewed as inferior in the fandom, I have read plenty of fanfictions regarding earth ponies, that had difficulty doing things that perhaps a unicorn or a pegasus could easily do, but they did them nonetheless. And I believe it's because of their inherent trait of stubbornness. Because of this, they are willing that is a bit more difficult for them, without much fuss, yes they don't like it, some things can be difficult or a pain to do, but they try, and figure out new ways to help themselves just enough so whatever they are doing, is a bit easier.

[@SolarBlyze]

pff xD i have to laugh at the last part with mentioning ripping tex's horn off, considering the horn is a fake one. he's mentioned before that his oc is actually an earth pony and the horn is fake, it's just there as a joke i suppose

[@TheStadtpark]

I thought the fandom generally thinks Earth Ponies are equal because they are stronger and stuff...

[@nightshadow9937]

while listening to the red pony dude I forgot his name already sorry :P I feel so much like him I don't like how others can get that feeling of theyre above everyone mainly I agree mostly with the they need to wake up factor some just deside to let them be in dream and and let them be above others yet it realy dose nothing in the long run or it it takes so long for them to realize this and by time they do they have usualy alreddy corrupted someone else that's ware people like me try to come in yet we are suppressed... idk just my thoughts here

[@brentramsten249]

reminds me of nejji and naruto debate.... but i guess that debate was inherently flawed.

[@tebbzy]

It sound like Past Analysis was bullied in high school by the jocks. Everyone have things they excel at but some know how to get attention for it. And I think a lot of them deserve the attention. They work for years to get to that level of ability. I am a jack of all trades and people pay attention to me because of it. But I was trained my whole life to be able to be this way. So it is right that someone that haven’t taken the time to learn how to do something to get jealous of me for doing it, and took proud in what I did? Different people have different abilities; some work hard to improve their abilities, and some spend their time being jealous of those that have abilities they don’t. My view is let people be proud of their abilities, and work to improve your abilities. Being jealous of others is a waste of your time.

[@ThePastAnalysis]

Haha, I can see how my presentation alluded to that. In high school though, I was in the marching band and my school gave a lot of, in my opinion, unequal praise to the football team simply for being the football team. That's where a lot of my frustration here, came from.

[@Dairo512]

Regarding the complaint that people see individuals who are "gifted", "talented", or otherwise more naturally able to do the things they're trying to do as being better than those who are not... I'm sorry, but *that is what being 'better' is*. Olympians aren't the people who try the hardest at their respective sports. They're the ones who have the greatest possible combination of effort and talent for what they do. That's just how life works. Complaining about it and trying to devalue natural advantages, or the efforts of people who have them, is just sour grapes. And really, trying to shame those individuals for feeling proud of themselves or enjoying the fruits of their labors is reprehensible. Regarding the pony races, well, remember the Hearth's Warming Eve episode to understand their value. They *were* at one point all equal in that they would all starve unless they worked together to produce food, with Earth Ponies being the only ones actually capable of doing so directly. That is, until Celestia and Luna took over the Sun and Moon, respectively, thus robbing all the unicorns of their inherent racial value. How they maintained an upper class society and demeanor is a mystery. Especially since wealth as we understand it has very little value in Equestrian society, as indicated by Rarity's continued workaholism and desperation to fit in with the "1st class" citizens despite technically being the wealthiest pony alive. If the value of gems illustrated in the Manehattan episode is any indication, she has nearly infinite monetary worth. Honestly, I think the pony race/class system is completely arbitrary and that is the point that is mocked in the parody shows. With the exceptions of the incredibly talented individuals such as Twilight and Rarity, unicorns are in fact all but worthless to Equestrian society as long as the Sisters are in power. Yet they still act to the extreme contrary and convince the other two races of the same. I picked one because a: telekinesis is terribly convenient if you're otherwise limited to working with your mouth and hooves, and b: they're supposed to be more intellectual and mellow, which is closer to my own disposition. Pegasi, being the "warrior race" are a bunch of obnoxious assholes but still fun to watch in action (Flutters being the exception to the former). And Earth Ponies are, with the exception of Pinkie, generally quiet, modest, and hard-working. TL;DR: There is no 'master race', and that's something all of the ponies had to learn at the advent of the HWE event. In any case, it is nothing less than shameful to devalue the efforts of those with talent just because those without it produce lesser results.

[@TheEverFreeKing]

No one is born better, we are all born equal for we all are just humans living in this strange world of our's, Sure some have talents in some area's that gives them an advantage but so what? A genius, huh? What does that mean? "Genius"? So some are not born with a whole lot of natural talent, some people aren't gifted like other's …but they work hard and never give up! That is their gift that is their Genius. If you never give up on your dreams you can over come any wall. You should focus on your own happiness and value your own worth but always aim ever higher. And in turn you can make a differences and maybe overcome the wall that stands before you. If you truly have enough will to achieve something you will have just as much chance. And hopefully other's will be inspired by your actions.

[@Venquine_R]

Dear DRWolf001, First of let me just say that I love your AMWDW videos as well as your other content and that it was you, SIlver-Quill and Firebrand that brought be back into MLP - though I am more a fan of you analysts than the actual show, sorry. Second of, let me give you a bit of a warning; my reaction will be a long one, because I see how serious you take all of this and because I take the topic of this reaction very seriously. Allow me to introduce myself before I get onto the topic. I am Venquine1990. I am the kind of KZbinr that has an account solely for the purpose of watching other people's videos. I know myself and I know I do not have the skills for graphic arts or drawing or even coming up with a cameo that represents me. My talent lies in putting my imagination down to words, not graphics. Because of that have I become a fanfiction writer - though I will admit, I have never done a MLP fanfic, sorry. Now onto the topic I wish to discuss. I am very much a fan of your AMWDW series - as previously mentioned - and while I did see the preview that states you will be returning to the Mane 6 starting next week, do I still feel the need to ask you if you do requests. If you don't, then that is fine, I will just accept this. If you do, then I would like to ask you to discuss the following topic. FANFICTION! As I said, I am a writer of this myself and while I love everything I write and have fifteen stories that I update on a monthly basis, do I feel kind of sad when I hear this topic being addressed by you and fellow analysts. Especially in the one with Ink Rose and Celestia's Portrayal in the fandom. I get her point that Celestia was portrayed completely OC, but I haven't really heard anything really positive about fanfiction lately either. My question is, could you do a discussion with someone where you speak of the benefits and problems of fanfiction in regards to MLP and the fandom? Sorry if this took way longer than righteous or necessary, but like I said, I take this topic very seriously, just like you have done with all of the topics you discussed. Hope to hear an answer soon and like I said, if this request can't be answered, it's fine. At the least, could you give me your opinion on this topic? Thanks in advance, Venquine1990 PS. again, sorry for the rant.

[@SobiTheRobot]

For the record, I've never thought of Earth Ponies as being "inferior" in any way. Based on their biology (and their history), the three pony types seem to represent a sort of harmony, so it made sense to me that the Earth Ponies had their own brand of bonus ability, in the way that Unicorns can manipulate physical magic and Pegasi can fly and manipulate clouds to control weather. Earth Ponies are naturally stronger and tougher than their cousins, and possibly more inclined to finding creative, "mundane" solutions to problems faced. So are you (Past Analysis) saying that the "non-gifted" should be treated differently for not having gifts? Or are you saying that the "gifted" should stop bragging about it? I can agree with the second one more than the first; people like Trixie ought to be given a reality check. But what about people like Rainbow Dash, who have the talent to back up their boasting? What about when they ARE awesome?

[@ThePastAnalysis]

I'm more so saying the second. I think our society defines on its own who is "gifted" and who is "not-gifted," and then precedes to make those "gifted" people feel incredibly better. It makes the "gifted" brag about something that in many instances isn't even there and the "not-gifted" feel like inferior. I think that needs to stop.

[@alexandrapearce5260]

I don't think that earth ponies are inferior my favorite pony is and earth pony!

[@ericadick1029]

i know this is off topic but pls help

[@dragdid]

pony racism its better than human versions think about this

[@Karbonic]

Is this actually a commentary on race relations?

[@Emancipationer]

Hey Dr Wolf. I wanted you to know that I really like the idea of these "A Moment With" segments, but I feel there might be something inherently wrong with the execution. It has something to do with the fact that you are actually interviewing real people, about real emotional issues, depicting yourself as a doctor, in a doctor's office. It gives the whole set-up of this video a very intrusive vibe. As a viewer it makes me feel like I am watching a very personal exchange between two people, the kind of exchange that would normally be protected under doctor/patient confidentiality. It makes me feel uncomfortable. I feel the need to stress that I really like most of your content, and this is by no means a reason for me to unsubscribe or stop watching. I just wanted to point out a possible moral issue with the current structure of your "A Moment With" videos. Thanks for all the stuff you do.

[@DRWolf001]

I appreciate your encouragement. And you present a very fair point with your uncomfortable worry here. When I began this series, I stressed to everyone involved that I wanted it to feel very personal. That those who come to talk should be willing and able to express themselves in a meaningful way. I knew that this would be essential if I was going to give my watchers a more relateable video to watch. Each of the scripts I come up with have been written by my guest and myself in the space of an hour. I will specifically ask them questions, and they will give their honest answers, and we continue to say whatever comes to mind, back and forth. Thus, the script sounds and feels far more natural, since these are the real thoughts and feelings for all those involved. And from most everything I've seen thus far, the majority of my watchers really appreciate the subjects we talk about. They are able to better relate to the feelings of my guests, since many of them have gone through similar circumstances. And thus, we are encouraging more discussion through the comments, which in turn, creates an environment where people feel safe to talk about whatever comes to mind. It has been quite successful thus far. And the fact that you feel like you are watching a very personal exchange between two people is exactly what I was going for. I understand why that would make you feel worried, but I make sure that every one of my guests knows what they are getting into before writing a script. And if any of them felt unsure about what they've said afterwards, then I have no qualms about putting that script aside for their sake. I hope this helps to lessen your worries. And I hope that you will add to the conversation in your own way too.

[@Emancipationer]

DRWolf001 Thanks for responding. I can say, without a doubt, that the subject matter presented in these videos really does feel personal. And if your guests have already given their consent towards the scripts, then I suppose it shouldn't be an issue to me either. Perhaps I just have some deep seated short-coming about presenting one's personal issues or feelings of inadequacy in a public forum...oh god...now I'm telling Dr Wolf about MY problems. Curse you being so good at what you do!!!

[@MsFluffyninja7]

I always found earth ponies to be the most interesting ponies because I always figure that earth ponies have some form of magic to the earth and being super strong but I keep thinking about pinkie pie and all the stuff she can do she is like faster than rainbow dash and have can break the laws of physics which makes me think did pinkie tap into some weird magic that earth ponies could do or is pinkie the only one who can do this? Then cheese sandwich came and pretty much did what pinkie pie did so I wonder if earth ponies try hard enough could they tap into pinkies weird magic and literally break the laws of physics and become faster than any Pegasus on hooves

[@IndiBrony]

Breaking the 4th wall does come with its merits, just ask Deadpool.

[@MsFluffyninja7]

IndigoMichigan I know it does and Deadpool is awesome for it