American Reacts to Stephen Fry on Political Correctness

[@moonwind6303]

I have passed 60 and it makes me very happy that young people are listening to this wisdom and honesty again. Gives me hope. 💙

[@Loupa57]

Yes, and this is intelligently commented on too. I’m glad that political “horns” are being grasped, too.

[@TaureanTrish]

Hey I'm 60 too, live in Oz. The youth really do need to grasp what their future holds for them, and not just Americans, ALL the youth around the world. 'All you need is Love' - John Lennon.

[@victoriaskuse118]

Ditto to that 👍

[@bishashleigh6408]

Likewise

[@fiddledotgoth]

The persecution of heretics has never been a good thing, even when the heretics were wrong; I'm glad such a respected voice from the current belief system has weighed in on that fact...

[@marcandreyko4251]

seeing someone of your generation admiring Stephen Fry gives me hope. Fry has forgotten more than i will ever know.

[@lechat8533]

@marcandreyko4251 Every generation has a handful of intelligent and critical thinkers who have always belonged to a tiny minority.

[@johncheffy4775]

Agree

[@johncheffy4775]

​@lecarehat8533 are you gender critical ?

[@Duconi]

@marcandreyko4251 I understand that a lonely virgin like you agrees with Stephen Fry. But what is he actually saying? He for example claimed that the thinking in universities is limited. How so? To pick a more extreme example: No one thinks in universities how we stop boats from falling off the end of the flat earth, because we know the earth isn't flat. So knowing the earth is round stops us from thinking about boats falling of the edge. Same with PC. PC is about speaking respectfully instead of repeating false assumptions. Like calling people being a lonely virgin, if they aren't, isn't PC. Same with calling black people stupid apes, isn't PC. So maybe you will not come up with ideas to research about the stupidness of black people in the university. But it's a false assumption in the first place, like the flat earth is a false assumption. Research has shown that. It's not even the case that science forbids thinking about the possibility that black people are more stupid than white people. It's actually something that was researched and identified as false. So what are we actually loosing? What's the real issue?

[@FallenAngel9979]

@@johncheffy4775what on earth are you talking about

[@chiliboom6140]

“I believe one of the greatest human failings is to prefer to be right, than to be effective.” Golden words.

[@Greg-om2hb]

As an extension of this insight, the most important question to guide a married man in interacting with his wife is, “Do you want to be right, or do you want to be happy?”

[@chiliboom6140]

@@Greg-om2hb Ideally, in a relationship, it would work both ways. Ideally…

[@ralphtoivonen2071]

Meh ... They are not mutually exclusive. What a stupid comment?

[@T.M.Woodside]

So what you’re saying is, we should value being effective and wrong over either (a) effective and right, or (b) ineffective at being wrong? If someone is going to be stupid and wrong I would MUCH RATHER they be ineffective and therefore unable to implement their stupid wrongness than being highly effective and doing a lot of actual harm extremely well to many other people.

[@chiliboom6140]

@@T.M.Woodside lol, I like that view. My interpretation of that quote is more on the fact that people are being stubborn to the point that even if they’re wrong they are sticking with it. Rather than being Willing to be wrong, if what they are wrong about actually shows results. It wasn’t my quote, but how I have heard it makes sense to me. Just my own opinion and view. And you know what, I could be wrong. 🙂

[@juliequinlan6564]

Stephen is a national treasure and loved by us Brits. He is so articulate, so knowledgable but never looks down on others and never patronises - he merely educates in a way that is welcome and understandable. He is a pleasure to listen to! 🇬🇧 💙

[@rainebolton6495]

Agree, I'm a brit & love him. I have only met one person that didn't like him & I kind of looked at him a bit different after he shared that 🤣

[@MsChris2707]

He is a global treasure. So articulate, thoughtful, respectful and witty. A real intellectual. We need more Stephen Frys. Greetings from Germany.

[@frannybgood]

Speak for yourselves. His affected "intelligence" is well practised and has become something of a cliché. Not saying he's wrong, just remove your tongues

[@craigshaw4602]

Loved here in Australia too

[@Tedmader-fp3vb]

Now he would have knock on his door from thought police.

[@poppysydney3564]

Stephen Fry is a national treasure. A gift to humanity 😊

[@rohanmarkjay]

Yes he is one of the best things to come out of Britain in the last 40 years. Glad the younger generations in U.S. and U.K, Canada, Australia, NZ and around the world are listening to his wisdom. A serious lack of it in todays world. As the world goes into a very dangerous confusing period in the next 20 years or so. Also we must cherish him while he is around he probably hopefully has another 25 years on this earth to hear his wisdom as he is sixty now he is not a young guy anymore like he was in the 1980s or early 1990s. Also the Britain that produced a Stephen Fry will not produce another one. I think he is the last of those highly read, highly intelligent. articulate truly liberal Brits that use to be a lot more around in previous generations. I doubt we will see another as intelligent and articulate as him again. So Cherish him and we all need to listen to man of great wisdom closely as humanity steers through this tricky period coming up in the next 10 or 15 years or so.

[@stephenlackey5852]

I would only add “World Treasure” to your statement 😌🙏

[@ninab9969]

International treasure, even

[@patmeakin9610]

Wonderful man. Loved by many.

[@jegsthewegs]

Stephen Fry is a remarkable human being. His life as it is now has come out of trial and tribulation. He is the very best at using what is profoundly British. WE ARE PROUD to have him show why, though our country is tiny-we are mighty and will always remain so, when push comes to shove.🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@fayesouthall6604]

When I was 16 I was in London waiting to see a play in a cafe. It was busy, both Stephen and Hugh Laurie walked in. It was very early in their career. I knew who they were. The only seats available was at my table. The ordered tea and a piece of cake and asked to sit down. I said it would be a pleasure. We sat and chatted for about half an hour until they had to leave. Stephen was chatty, Hugh much quieter. They were impressed I was 16 and in London to watch a Steven Berkoff play.

[@ItsNotRealLife]

I love stories like that this Ordinary stories about extraordinary men

[@richardpennington5445]

Greek? (The SB play)

[@darrenw2890]

What was the play? Shakespeare's villains? I saw Berkoff twice. Met him afterwards. Pretty awesome bloke.

[@ruthgiles8926]

Lucky, lucky you!

[@moonrich3492]

Jeeves and Wooster!

[@johnfernleigh1352]

Joel, few of us can rise to Stephen Fry's level of articulacy but the fact you are drawn to listen to him, understand him and glory in the beauty of our shared language puts you way above the average person. You are insightful young man and seeing how you're interested in this stuff gives me confidence in your generation.

[@betadecay6503]

Why are you all obsessed with "his generation"? Every generation throughout all of human history has had thoughtful, insightful people, as well as having complete and utter morons. Stop making out like young people are all idiots and it's a novelty to see one use their brain.

[@grimmertwin2148]

Gosh

[@jimibhoy8935]

Ah therein lies the problem. You obviously have an issue with Jordan Petterson, did he say something that questioned your current belief system? Rather than claim he is misogynistic, and a bad person. Why don't you be specific and accurately inform all of us as to why you regard this man in the manner in which you do. No virtue signalling or anti male propaganda, actually explain the meaning of your statement, if you are even remotely able. Which to be honest I doubt very much, given your dismissal and attempted criticism of such a highly qualified and experienced practitioner and professor in his field. Over to you Dianne, lets hear the basis of your intellectual discourse. If it actually exists.?? @@dianne7922

[@patriciamillin-j3s]

@@dianne7922Agree! I was rather taken by surprise at the end when Joel spoke of him.

[@mrbluesky9891]

I don't see any Feminists fighting for the right to be Bricklayers!@@dianne7922

[@dialwright]

I'm 75, I agree with Stephen Fry, making my own philosophy since the early 60s, as a teenager. I'm delighted to witness someone of your generation excercising your intellect as you clearly do. Not enough of you; bless you.

[@betadecay6503]

Your generation were no more intellectual.

[@Crashawsome]

it was mostly your generation that created the mess we're in today.

[@Duconi]

Hello old woman. I'm happy that you don't care about political correctness. Not just boomers, but also old witches like you often complain about not being treated with respect. But why do we need that political correctness, right? Everyone should be free to call everyone else like they want and if I want to call you an old bag, I should have the right to do so without complains, right?

[@sallirobinson2907]

He said ‘exercising your intellect, where it is being stunted due to political correctness of today.

[@patriciamillin-j3s]

@@betadecay6503No more, but also no less. There were those with intellectual leanings and those without, just like in every generation.

[@tcrown3333]

When you first appeared on KZbin, you were a "nice" and well-mannered American boy. Nothing wrong with that. Now, however, you are showing your potential as a thoughtful, articulate man. Great job highlighting one of our national treasures! 👍👍👍👌

[@bilbobaggins706]

Weird that you should say that. I was thinking exactly the same thing!

[@stijnp8675]

I love how the whole auditorium goes dead silent only a minute in. That’s the power of Fry. He grabs an audience almost immediately. What a joy to hear this man speak.

[@Daisy24704]

As a woman of mature years, I'm completely turned on by intelligence. I could listen to Stephen Fry all day long. Someone you can have a meaningful conversation with, and not be bored for a single second.

[@fzoid3534]

Interesting.. I've always been drawn to intelligent people not so much turned on but on the other hand I'm extremely turned off by stupidity.

[@lawrencemills3427]

Everyone loves a sapiophile x

[@carollewis5931]

I feel exactly the same 😊

[@r.fairlie7186]

There’s a delightful name for being turned on by intelligence - sapiophilia. Long live all the sapiophiles, including the others who’ve commented already 🤗…

[@N0C0MPLY]

You're a sapiophile.

[@samil5601]

Stephen Fry being interrupted by an Amazon commercial just about highlights everything that is wrong in the modern world.

[@thebeardedseeker5633]

You should switch to the Brave browser. I often forget there are ads on KZbin until someone mentions it.

[@jswmonkey197]

KZbin can't exist without revenue,. Whether the algorithms target the ads correctly or not they're the price you pay for using the site.

[@malex4321]

Pony up and get premium.

[@james-xf1ox]

😅 funny but true.

[@AgentLemmon]

@@jswmonkey197 Utter bullshit. They did for years.

[@johnhendriks4085]

I like it very much that a young man like you (I am 77) is interested in people like Stephen Fry and his ideas, also Bertrand Russell, one of my favourite modern day philosophers.

[@arthurrussell-r3e]

And I'm 74 God help us both! May I respectfully suggest that you read Bertrand Russell's book "In Praise of Idleness" if it is possible to get it anymore? He has the same surname as me which has to be a good thing. Though to my advantage, he was even more ugly than I am today which takes some doing.

[@hartyewh1]

​@@arthurrussell-r3e It is available for free download as are all major works of that era and before.

[@betadecay6503]

@@arthurrussell-r3e "he was even more ugly than I am today which takes some doing." What the actual fuck? Who says that?

[@Duconi]

Hello senile silver surfer. I'm happy that you don't care about political correctness. Not just boomers, but also old witches like you often complain about not being treated with respect. But why do we need that political correctness, right? Everyone should be free to call everyone else like they want and if I want to call you an old bag, I should have the right to do so without complains, right?

[@baronmeduse]

'Modern day'? He did his best philosophical work at the start of the 20th century.

[@hiskeplantinga1519]

You go young man, gives me a sliver of hope. 60 year old woman from Amsterdam saluting you

[@lorenzotabin3822]

" its not what they call you - it's how they treat you"

[@paulcheeseman6473]

Well done, young man. An excellent presentation. Stephen Fry represents the very best of true liberal, humanitarian thinking.

[@t.a.k.palfrey3882]

Jay, the term "PC culture" is a textbook example of an oxymoron. I am a European-style liberal - which would make me a radical progressive or even "a damned Commie" in the US, even though I am neither a socialist nor PC. I tell my grandsons, "Provided you do not intend to offend, say what you think. If someone takes offence, that's on them."

[@shauntempley9757]

That is what PC culture was created to do. It was a way to ensure someone that intended to offend with words could be challenged, and was initially intended to defuse people that tried to derail those discussions using that offence, because they did not want to have it. This happens all the time in Parliament's all over the West. The key difference, is that PC culture teaches that those comments are for disruption and restriction. My nation has right leaning politicians that still use that tactic today, and they hate the fact that people can clap back at them now. Because PC culture allowed them to do so. Over the 80 years, those that used offensive language and comments to get the upper hand in social reform as government leaders, to the destruction of many groups of people that were shut out of society, and they succeeded because their opponents had no response to their comments. That is the risk with challenging PC culture, because it can lead to reversals on many advances we have made if it is driven back. It is something that Fry is not aware of, because he is not aware of how the right used offensive language as a weapon in debates. He is only aware of it as a gay man, and that offensive speech is just one form of it. Fry does not realise that his gay marriage is a symptom of PC culture working well, because his political opponents could not derail the efforts like they did over the previous decades.

[@bobtheskutterbot]

"If someone takes offence, that's on them." - not necessarily. It is always worth being humble and to try to understand the perspective of the other person. Maybe they were right to be offended and you can learn something valuable. Maybe they weren't right but it's worth digging into if you want to be a better person at the end of the engagement.

[@karenlloyd945]

​@bobtheskutterbot great comment. I've taught my children that sometimes people have different views & we should listen to them & if we still think they are wrong then we can choose to walk away shaking our heads or the better thing to do is start a discussion. Don't call them names just use the facts as you know them to try to change their minds. It won't work but you might just learn something

[@samil5601]

@@bobtheskutterbot If someone takes offence, it is on them by definition. They have taken it, regardless if it was intended or not. This is the core issue in the debate about PC or manners, whatever tag you wish to use. The recipient wants to set the barriers on the debate besides the issues being discussed, by taking offence to something being said or how it is delivered and, thus, derailing the debate.

[@bobtheskutterbot]

@@samil5601 I agree that sometimes people do performative offence like this but sometimes it is genuine. It is worth some effort to dig into which it is. And if it is genuine, to apologise for causing the offence and to attempt better next time. Only by learning can we improve communication.

[@alanhilton7336caradventure]

This man has gandalf levels of wisdom and he's a British institution I just wish he was prime minister of our country. 🇬🇧

[@helenmckeetaylor9409]

😁"Gandalf levels of Wisdom" inspired description 🤘🏼

[@mikeoxlong4110]

him or Jimmy Saville.

[@ac1646]

Brilliant. You feel reassured when either Stephen or Gandalf come on the scene.

[@BlackTempleGaurdian]

Why would you do him dirty like that?

[@SanoyNimbus]

He could have Rowan Atkinson and John Cleese as ministers.

[@detectivemittons9020]

I am a mixed asian, white thinking, 30 year old who's straight and rigidly vegan. Every single one of those descriptors tells you nothing about me. So why do I feel like I'm defined by that? I shouldn't have to pad or rise anyone by answering a question. My personality and my thoughts should forever be listened to and questioned. This world is so angry and the real 'evil' of this world truly feeds on that. Great reaction, man! Don't let the world bring you down, always hold that teflon mind and push towards that goodness

[@pauleneblazey1580]

You lighten my heart. A young man with an open mind and heart.

[@kingy002]

There are hundreds of millions of them on this planet. Joel is in no way unique.

[@rondavis60]

I just LOVE how much you, as an American, appreciated Fry, and reacted so appreciatively to the wit, irony, and double entendre, let alone his matchless prose and insight. ❤️

[@grimmertwin2148]

What exactly are you saying about Americans?

[@markhorsburgh76]

​@grimmertwin2148 that they are smart, intelligent people.

[@hazeluzzell]

I’m sure he/she is not saying anything derogatory….simply that we may have a different sense of humour. Not better, or worse, just different.

[@markhorsburgh76]

@@hazeluzzell It's long been thought that we have a quite different humour here in the UK compared to the US. But I am fairly sure that our humour, and also our culture, is now much more well travelled, especially among the younger generation. So the US is starting to "get it". But it's also probably true that a fair selection of the British public have a bias view of what the average US citizen is like, in terms of education, political and religious stance. Much of this is a little unfair, as of course our views of the average US citizen are shaped by the media and generally not from experience. So it can come as a surprise to some people in the UK that many people in the States are not all uneducated, gun-totting, religious nuts, who would see Fry as a messenger sent by Satan himself, who'll burn in hell for eternity. This debate doesn't do a lot to alleviate that idea either, considering the other half of the panel.

[@thescrewfly]

@@markhorsburgh76 If Satan has ever come into contact with Mr Fry, I hope some of it rubbed off on him.

[@lesmarsden2058]

I couldn’t agree more with your opinion of Stephen Fry. The man is a genius. So knowledgeable in many different areas. As an older man in the U.K. I find it so refreshing to see a young American guy like you with an open mind and open to listening to a range of opinions before forming your own. Whatever you choose to do with your life I’m sure you will go far.

[@Duconi]

But I didn't really understood his problem with PC. Maybe it's because English isn't my mothertongue. For me PC is to treat people with respect. Instead of calling Stephen an butt licker, I would say, that he's gay. Calling him penis sucker would definitely not be respectful. But what are we loosing by treating others with respect? I don't really get it.

[@saudade369]

Sometimes a persons eloquence brings a lump to one’s throat and Stephen Fry has that talent . His honesty and integrity with humility can be deeply moving .

[@0TanTanTheManMan0]

Stumbled across your ‘an american interested in Britain’ content and loved your open attitude, lighthearted nature and genuine fascination with the cultural differences, really cool to consider everyday UK things from another perspective with you. But this video and your reaction to it takes my respect to the next level. It shows you in a much deeper light, highlighting your intelligence and character. Keep it going making your content about what truly interests you, it’s really genuine and refreshing 👌🤝🙏

[@MM-yi9zn]

Stephen Fry is a treasure to the world. Few are as intelligent & articulate as he. He’s deeply kind & caring. But fantastically funny as well!

[@trailerman2]

As a 68 year old Englishman, seeing your reaction to this video Joel was so rewarding. You mentioned politics at one stage: just imagine if we could have politicians of this mans calibre.....we'd have a better world.

[@aughalough1]

Throw James O’Brien and President Obama in there for a real debate.

[@DawnSuttonfabfour]

You go Joel, your generation needs people like you. Be the change you want to see Don't back down from you honest opinions. That's how you begin; by being true to yourself.

[@catherinekenny3926]

He's one of our national treasures. Love him so much. He's ultra intelligent. Lots of love to you from a very sunny but chilly Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 x

[@stalyirmangin6249]

Great reaction video, I can't wait to watch the whole thing. The Thatcher/Reagan era led to a cultural shift in discussing politics, it's like an entire generation wasn't taught how to play gracefully - and now we have to talk about it, but we don't know how to. so we scream, and we don't listen. So glad to have come across this, and your channel! Keep it up, fella! Love from Scotland

[@mariocy]

perfectly said :-(

[@JennyBrook-v5c]

Yay, another young American putting thoughtful, intelligent podcasts out. ( love Amala). Well done and thankyou. Love Stephen Fry, I am so pleased you are making this more widely available.

[@goonerbean4680]

I can’t add anything or even try to ,after hearing Steven speak. Thanks Joel for also spreading much needed content. You are a great influence. Stephen is a great person ❤

[@mydanshi9683]

Just gently hold your ground and brave people will join you. I’ve realised that just because I’ve woken up, I think I can make other people see through a situation in the way I can now. They can’t. People wake up in their own time. Forcing the issue leaves you with no friends. Planting seeds is the way to go.

[@dianacasey6002]

I couldn’t agree more.

[@cornishmaid9138]

Stephen Fry is a cream of the crop intellectual. I never tire of listening to him.

[@worldwearyuk178]

Stephen Fry is of my generation. I have been lucky enough to watch him from his early Cambridge Footlights comedy days to his current stature as a deep thinker and erudite speaker. He is, quite simply, a brilliant and funny man. I've often heard him described as having a brain the size of Kent (or an American might say "the size of Texas") He is certainly fiercely intelligent with an encyclopaedic memory and wide-ranging interests. Would that I had even a smidgen of his gifts!

[@busking6292]

I believe the original quote was 'he has a brain the size of Bournmouth' by Robbie Coltrane but I could be wrong.

[@scaussie75]

Stephen Fry speaks always from my heart. We live in a black and white world these days, you're either for or against to the extremes. How are we to obtain equality without embracing different points of view, finding a common ground. Cancel culture and political correctness have shut the debate and fairness down.

[@therealpbristow]

I sympathise with this point of view, but really, it takes two to tango. The debate and the fairness can still happen; It's just that now it has to be shoe-horned into the gap between two large opposing forces, instead of being a one-sided push back against a single dominant force. Us "please, can we calm down and discuss things properly" folks have to work twice as hard as before, but we've always had to work hard, unless we hid in our comfortable bubbles of "reasonable" friends. Those bubbles are harder to maintain now... And in the long run, that's probably for the best, because if humanity is going to survive this century then reasonableness needs to spread, not hide.

[@singingsam40]

I absolutely adore Stephen Fry. He is an articulate, beautiful soul with an intimidatingly educated and sharp wit and a huge heart. I also agree with him that it's not so much the words themselves that matter, but the intention behind them. Treat people kindly and with genuine compassion and empathy and we'll stop being overly offended by the latest un-pc words and the inflammatory meanings we often ascribe to them. Sadly though, humans will probably continue to "human" and I'm just an almost 50-year-old hippy wannabe ...

[@which-Rainey-shall-I-be-today]

Couldn't agree more (I'm also an almost 50 hippie wannabe) 😁

[@peterciarcia2023]

I never see you get as excited about anyone as you do for Stephen Fry. I lost count of the number of emotions that crossed your face. This is why I love following you. Now go take a nap, you're exhausted.

[@roy57054]

It's Lovely to see a young American coming into this World, Keep your sprit up and always speak your mind, and try and bring more of your generation with you.

[@Duconi]

Hey old white man, what do you mean with "coming into this world"? It's long time ago, when this man-child was born.

[@lairddougal3833]

I’m in my seventh decade and am heartened by your appreciation not just of Fry, but of a nuanced argument. It gives me hope. And Stephen Fry? Sadly, I’m now sufficiently misanthropic that there are few people I would want or like at my table. Fry is one of the very few exceptions. A great and gentle man.

[@Alice-lw9mg]

I am a 72yr old Brit and I totally despairing at what is going on due to polictical correctness. Stepen is so eloquent and I like his view on life.

[@MrMaerok]

The man is astounding; funny, brilliant and inspiring. It nice to see a younger generation appreciating him.

[@stewrmo]

One of our few, and getting fewer, national treasures.

[@annicegrundy5307]

I love Ricky he is a comic genius, Stephen is just genius ❤

[@markgoldspink5109]

the fact he's a comic genius too makes hurts me that i'm not even playing the same game as him let alone the same league.

[@clivewuest8529]

Like others have said Stephen is a national treasure here in the UK. He has a brain the size of a planet and is wonderful wordsmith. Everything he says rings true for me and many others I think. I have not seen this lecture before, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one as I concur with so much of what he has to say, however what equally inspired me was watching you as a young man appreciating and clearly hanging on to the words he says. Its wonderful to see. You are clearly a beautiful human being with a visibly kind soul. We need more young people like you. Your parents should be very proud of bringing up such a lovely and deep thinking young man. Clive

[@vivienvaughan9043]

Well said young man, thank goodness there are young people who think this way! It is uplifting! I have always admired Stephen Fry, what an incredible mind!

[@jeangenie1240]

Just reading through the comments below, I am intrigued by the amount of oldies you have as followers. Here I am a 73 woman (UK), also interested in your thoughts and deliberations, and how articulate you are in expressing yourself. Keep up this good work!

[@daveurquhart477]

I'm a little younger than you but I find it's always interesting to hear what "the younger generation" have to say, moreso the more thoughtful ones. It challenges my own views and keeps my thinking fresh.

[@normanwebster1757]

The world has changed so much since I was at University in the UK. I attended in the early 1970's. As students we were encouraged to speak freely on a variety of subjects, and we had no fear of being "cancelled" which tends to happen more and more in our Universities. I have admired Stephen Frys intellect for many years now. I am so glad you agree with his viewpoint. Its unusual in a young student such as yourself. So well done for that.

[@hs964]

Love watching you not only be wowed by what Fry sats, but that you also take a moment with some things he says to decide whether you agree or not - that's the sign of an independent thinker. The internet is great for us learning from people that in the past we didn't have access to whether that be intellectuals or farmhands

[@kumasenlac5504]

and your problem with farmhands is ? (o:

[@mrsm9974]

What he says is just what comes to his mind based on how the conversation is going. He is not there with a piece of paper, trying to impress upon and push and stick one certain agenda under people’s noses. ❤

[@mickcoburn1787]

I hope there are many more young people like yourself in the world. It sounds like you have the answers in your head but you just need a touch of strength to openly voice your thoughts. You’re on the right path young man and you give me hope for a better future. Be strong in your convictions and don’t ever get caught up in the hate crowds of anyone that may try to influence you. Peace and respect. You’re on the right path.

[@therichnessoflife3707]

Go for it young man! Stay in your heart always, and you will be lead along the path of enlightenment. ✨🙏🏻🇬🇧

[@davidberriman5903]

Joel you certainly seem to attract an older audience. i am a seventy one year old Australian. It has been a real pleasure to watch you grow since I joined your channel, The best thing is that it is great to know that there are thinkers in the U S. Joel for President. Please keep producing the quality we have all come to enjoy so much. Very best wishes for the future.

[@susandurrant6357]

Watch Stephen talk about the Catholic Church....it's easily the best verbal argument ever voiced!

[@Shaara1]

The best for atheists, but certainly not for those who actually understand it. From him, one actually expects a more logical reasoning than simply throwing a tantrum. Anyone but him.

[@englishsteve1465]

@@Shaara1 Well, if by "understand" you mean believe in it's doctrines (Opus Dei anyone ?) But I think many understand all we really need to about Vatican banks and bankers, the power and the machinations of it's leadership and the ease with which it shuffles and hides it's child abusing or plain power abusing clergy members and sheer numbers of such, we understand.

[@Shaara1]

@@englishsteve1465 I thought so. He names Bertrand Russell as his idol. He should apply that knowledge. Unlike his master, Fry only argues religious matters based on emotions. Shame. Or maybe he is indeed not that smart, only well spoken? He could fool me.:) To his credit, at least he is wise enough not to come up with stupid stereotypes that look scandalous enough to chew on them but little fact behind them. You should be like Fry. ;) Dont repeat unfunded sh*t just because it sounds good and because you are lazy to find real facts.

[@susandurrant6357]

@@Shaara1 haha "for those that understand it" pompous prat

[@susandurrant6357]

@@Shaara1 You really come over as a jealous person, bitter in fact

[@AgnesPerditaX]

"No doubt" is a sister of totality, I'd say. Oh my, Stephen Fry is incredibly smart and clever and wise and empathetic creature. I love him to bits.

[@ArtemisShanks]

I normally dislike reaction videos, but it’s refreshing to see anyone exposed to the genius of Stephen Fry. He’s my favorite human alive.

[@doggiesarus]

As a liberal I have had to totally re-think my beliefs. The Left has gone too far in many ways. I now consider myself slightly left of center. There are certain things on the Right and conservative ideology that I cannot and will never believe, so I will probably never step over that line.

[@sebastian123N]

I agree with you. The good thing about the left is that there are many ideas and initiatives and not a collective thinking - the reason you get women’s right, gay rights, new ideas, change, etc. On the right, there’s a collective thinking - go with the flow and defend it although it’s morally wrong and corrupt. The Republican Former Speaker, Kevin McCarthy, said it the best: “When you look at the Democrats, they actually look like America….When I look at my party, we look like the most restrictive country club in America.”

[@jennklein1917]

❤❤ Stephen Fry is embraced by ALL generations ❤

[@lorrainewylie6975]

I sat watching this with a silly smile on my face and a happy sad tear in my eye, you got it!! Your reaction was glorious, you young man can make a difference, do not ever loose your enthusiasm sir, but be careful, its visious out there

[@KiwiZD]

Bravo, refreshing to have a person from a younger generation exploring the world through wisdom and intellect. Keep doing what you're doing, and bring your generation on this much needed journey to make the world a happier place.

[@nathanbeasley1234]

There's a great clip after the debate with JP and SF, the mutual respect despite obvious differences is admirable and is definitely what we need to get back to, civil disagreement and open and honest discussion should be the default for society. Seek out similarities not difference and the world will be a much more harmonious place

[@EvelynBaron]

Tx SO MUCH for airing this Munk debate in Canada where I was born, with such thoughtfulness. Stephen Fry does something his virulent opponents, he's defending one during this speech tied up in word salad who do not want to hear: the language of the heart. You are a love, and he's a magnficent human being. You made my day!

[@gary5717]

He’s brilliant, I was at Cambridge with him. He has a red hot mind, I’m so happy that he’s back on form, he suffered from depression for a while. A delightful person, I wish him all the best.

[@Steppest]

I love seeing you concentrating so much, and absorbing so much of what Stephen was saying. Give me hope for the future xx

[@Pugh.Pugh.BarneyMcGrew]

I am from Stephen Fry's generation, and I think the thing I miss most is intellectual discussion. No one wants to talk about anything out of fear. Our generation is considered sexist, racist, every king of -ist, and every kind of phobic, yet we by every measure had less, than the current generations, while being happier by every measure. The Bertrand Russel quote, “The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, and wiser people so full of doubts.” Is good, I also like the Chekov one, in typical Russian bluntness, "Only fools and charlatans know everything and understand everything."

[@shanewaterman4125]

This is so accurate. I remember learning debating skills at junior school in the UK (We had 'balloon debates' on Friday afternoons, justifying why we shouldn't be the one who has to jump to save the balloon!). Debating views wildly different to your own is HARD. It forces you to go to intellectual places you may fear, it pushes you to confront things that you find deeply unpleasant. But face them you MUST if society is to progress. Cancelling, hating anyone with an opposing view takes society backwards, not forward. Thank heaven for Stephen Fry, Douglas Murray and many 'thinkers' who are not afraid to speak out for common sense and the advancement of society - and for this young man following in their footsteps.

[@JollyGraham]

That was so impressive, glad to have seen it. I hadn’t realised that your channel was so diverse and not just an American praising the British sense of humour or whatever and cheering us up now that we are a spent force.

[@Music5362]

Why can't the leaders of countries be this well educated and articulate.

[@Simon-hb9rf]

because anyone who is actually honest wouldnt take the job.

[@dianecourtney2724]

That’s not how you keep power

[@medler2110]

@@Simon-hb9rfMore to the point they wouldn't get the job in the first place.

[@LyndaEck]

Ego. Stephen Fry is not egotistical, our politicians are egotistical performers with personal agendas.

[@matthewwalker5430]

I blame the drive toward better health and less and less people wanting to have a drink. I mean, 30 years ago in the UK we were mostly drunk, we said whatever we liked, if we went too far we had a punchup and, by the next morning, we had all forgotten about it and just did it all over again. The price for sobriety, it seems, is everyone is in the gym getting ever more fit and ever more insufferable. That's what I think, but don't listen to me, I'm bladdered.

[@fayesouthall6604]

I’m a soft liberal who doesn’t want to mess with people. Just a believer in try everything with moderation. Life, alcohol or anything.

[@normanwolfe7639]

I was a waiter back in the 80’s when we had a smoking section. I hated cigarettes but preferred waiting the smoking section. Better tips. More fun. Non-smokers were much more uptight. Similar to what you’re saying about drinking. Smokers were usually drinking. 😂

[@derekcole8661]

I'll drink to that ☺

[@williamusrex6417]

Stephen Fry is a national and international treasure. Cherish him.

[@Duconi]

But I didn't really understood his problem with PC. Maybe it's because English isn't my mothertongue. For me PC is to treat people with respect. Instead of calling Stephen an butt licker, I would say, that he's gay. Calling him penis sucker would definitely not be respectful. But what are we loosing by treating others with respect? I don't really get it.

[@mourlyvold64]

"The ability to play gracefully with ideas" There it is, the perfect description of what we lost and desperately need. I noticed that touched you, young man. Best of luck being young in this current climate!

[@marianabryce7250]

I have loved and admired Stephen Fry for many, many years. Even in his earlier comedy shows, he was just GREAT. He is a polymath. Thank you for this video ❤️

[@RandomDustBunny]

Stephen Fry is the love of my life ❤❤ So great to see you moved and inspired by him!

[@WilliamKennedy-x7m]

You are an amazing young man.I have watched the PC onslaught on our way of life and our institutions. I am a Father and Grandfather with three beautiful Grandchildren the oldest of which is Sophie, who just turned thirteen. I worry all the time about their future but seeing you fills me with hope keep going young man and be safe.Best wishes from Scotland.

[@peadarruane6582]

Just out of curiousity. What specifically do you worry about for their futures?

[@elainaworsley470]

I absolutely admire and adore Stephen Fry. He is my choice of person. I would love to meet and have a cup of tea or coffee with. ☕️ He is a wonderful human being. A national treasure. I'm so pleased you enjoyed listening to him too. Thank you for showing this.

[@robertsonrobertson5918]

This is a great reaction you have made. The smile and pleasure in the mind and opinions of the rare human being that is Stephen Fry. 😊

[@hjb-1g8]

As a grandpa of 8, it is a joy to hear kids voice their opinions. So honest and innocent. We lost that honesty when we grow up. Very sad. We should not hurt people by what we say but we should have the freedom to express our opinions and we willing to be corrected if wrong. Let’s talking honestly

[@sethnmarshall]

Everyone has the freedom to say what they want. You don’t have the freedom to not be called out on it. PC culture is a myth that has been pushed since the 60’s. It was the next big fear that could be pushed by politicians.

[@RayWhitfield92]

Unfortunately when people tell them the truth though they don't listen...

[@brendanriley2908]

I actually had to pause this video to cry at times. As you said, his command of language and his own thought is... art. He really is one of our national treasures.

[@sfkeepay]

While it’s physically painful to see Stephen Fry (a well-informed renaissance man with great integrity and humility) in topical congress with Jordan Peterson (skilled in his specific field, but otherwise poorly informed (oftentimes shockingly so), reactionary, deeply retrograde, and evermore narcissistic), I’m glad to see him regardless of the circumstances. He’s steadily risen in rhetorical skill and accomplishments. I doubt Christopher Hitchens would be surprised to hear his dear friend Fry seems to have succeeded him as perhaps the most formidable debater around. I really like that he spoke about certainty in his introduction. Certainty is incompatible with organic existence. We’re surprisingly capable of error, even at times when we’re especially sure that we must be correct. Our senses are limited, our cognition is slow, our paradigms are corruptible, and our memories are startlingly unreliable. Yet we’re much inclined to believe the opposite of our own abilities, particularly when our opinions - tied so intricately with our egos - are in contest. Benjamin Franklin, in a report to the King of France (regarding the validity of mesmerism - a hot topic at the time) explained that while there’s only one truth in any situation, the possible ways to be wrong are “endlessly diversified”. Franklin also shared (or maybe even helped inspire) Fry’s lack enthusiasm for vehemence. Trying to calm arguing delegates at the constitutional convention, he said they were there “…to consult, not contend, with each other; and declarations of a fixed opinion, and of determined resolutions never to change it, neither enlighten nor convince us.” By the way, if you’ve not seen V for Vendetta, I’m certain you’d get a hell of a lot out of that film. Fry has a memorable role in it. p.s. There is an excellent book, “On Being Certain”, that I’m sure you have all the time in the world to read. But it provides a powerful (and very well supported) argument for what Fry (and it seems you) are arguing for. I wish it were as easy to defend progressive ideas as it is conservative ones. But the left needs a command of facts, where the right only needs to express emotions. That’s why we lose so often. Not too much faith in facts, but too little time working out how to effectively convey them.

[@richardcarter5082]

What has Jordan Peterson said that makes seeing him 'physically painful'?. I have watched a lot of JPs content over the years and can't fathom how he could be that upsetting to people. I am genuinely curious, not trying to be snide.

[@sfkeepay]

@@richardcarter5082 Fair question. Here’s a partial list: 1. He claims climate change models use faulty and/or unreliable factors and are therefore questionable, frequently confuses weather and climate, and says that even if climate change is a real, and is a problem, that we either don’t know what to do about it, or that there’s nothing we can do about it. 2. He lies about his credentials when debating. He’s claimed he’s an evolutionary psychologist. He’s also claimed he’s a neuroscientist. He’s neither. 3. He insists social hierarchies are an evolutionarily-conserved absolute reality, and represent a positive, useful and indispensable cultural tool for success and progress. He in part defends this assertion using the serotonergic systems of lobsters as a demonstration of how dominance hierarchies are foundational to the nature of all animal species. But he’s wrong about lobsters (invertebrates respond to serotonin signaling with increased aggression, vertebrates respond with connectedness (less developed species) or among more socially complex animals, with empathy and communality. 4. He likewise defends human dominance hierarchies as reflecting competence - in other words, people in positions of power are there as a reflection of merit. And he dismisses the effects of parental resources, geography, historical context, family wealth, birth order, peer group, etc. etc. on individual hierarchical position. 5. He deploys the Pareto Principle (the “80-20 rule”) as further support and defense of human dominance hierarchies even though it has been demonstrated - for decades, over and over, in replicated studies, and virtually unequivocally - as inapplicable in almost every situation to which he applies it. 6. Claims diversity creates distrust and disunity, and is a very much a net negative for society, but bases his argument on a single study that itself drew the opposite long-term conclusion. 7. Insisted a Canadian law would imprison people for not using the preferred pronoun expressed by trans people, even though the law said nothing of the kind. 8. Uses pedantry in real time to deflect direct challenges to his reasoning (basically, a verbal trick when confronted by his own b.s.) 9. Uses data about single-parent households to question the viability of same-sex couples raising children (apparently confusing one gender with one parent?); ignores data showing children of same-sex couples do as well or better than children of opposite sex couples 10. He claims US military recruits are given IQ tests (they aren’t) and that anyone with a score under 83 cannot join (also not true) because there are no ways they can contribute. 11. Basically passes himself off as being qualified to speak on nearly every cultural topic as though he possesses a special knowledge applicable to everything (which is actually what he believes - he thinks he has a unique insight into the truth of reality no one else has seen.) He’s a good psychologist and a decent self-help author. But that’s all. Everything he argues for is in support of the status quo (surprise!). Rich people deserve their wealth, poor people don’t know how to manage money, Elon Musk is some amazing genius and a gift to mankind, men and women can’t work together, and on and on. When substantively challenged, he tap-dances, evading any inconvenient statements he’s made or inconsistencies he’s demonstrated, employing rapidly spoken nonsense to confuse whatever issue is in question. Like I stated above, this is merely a partial list.

[@raywellswork]

@@sfkeepay so he has different opinions to yours. That is a fair position to take. might I ask what your qualifications are to give a counter opinion to his?

[@sfkeepay]

@@raywellswork , That’s a curious question. I could present my degrees here, but they are no more relevant to many of Peterson’s arguments than his own credentials. However, I’m not a public intellectual, and don’t claim to be. Peterson most certainly is, and therefore, he has a responsibility to uphold fidelity to factual information, but either can’t be bothered to know the truth, or disregards it when it doesn’t support his arguments.

[@raywellswork]

@@sfkeepay Nice Word Salad.

[@jillosler9353]

I love Stephen Fry and my heart reaches out to him at this particular frightening time ❤

[@KevinSmith-up1qo]

Credit to you for taking this on; Stephen Fry is a national treasure and has earned the right to stand on this stage…

[@dancinditedforyears6736]

Now you need to watch Stephen and Jordan having a conversation. It is on KZbin and it proves two humans with different opinions can converse without shouting or being rude. I love them both as they are trying to help humans.

[@philplace2726]

Hi from Britland. Well! WOW!!! what a great reaction video, probably your best and most important personal take on something ever! I've been a subscriber for several years and thoroughly enjoy your videos but his one is amazing! Two points I want to make; First: when you said it's your generation who created this and it's your generation who can take it away... that blew me away! So very true. Second: a quote from Oliver Cromwell (A person from history I really detest!) "I beseech you, in the bowels of Christ, think it possible you may be mistaken." We all hate doubt but it's more healthy than absolute certainty, always has been. So as an old Brit, once again a great reaction video, some fantastic insights into you as a person and thanks for bringing Stephen to a wider audience. Take care mate and looking forward to more like this.

[@squarecircle1473]

happy for you that you discovered Stephen Fry. He has a brilliant mind. Highly eloquent, an incredibly rich knowledge base, amazing recall, and very creative. All his talks are well worth watching. He was a good friend of the late C. Hitchens. You may appreciate the debates they had together.

[@lindalee5866]

Oh, I so miss Hitchens! And Gore Vidal.

[@kingy002]

@@lindalee5866 Gore Vidal, yes. Personally I was not a fan of Hitchens, though I understand his aims and agree with them. Peterson is not for me at all.

[@mehallica666]

Really could do with Hitchens around nowadays.

[@squarecircle1473]

@@mehallica666 Yeah. The world has become so ideological. I have more than once wondered what Hitchens would have said about it.

[@karinerken9626]

Stephen Fry is and has always been a first class narrator. He was trying to tell us all to be kinder, right-on Stephen.

[@seldom_bucket]

I remember not knowing Stephen was of his persuasion even into my 20's. I'd always seen him as the embodiment of what a real man is and i was shocked to find it out, he removed an ignorance for me that day of what a real man is.

[@joannecunliffe8067]

Cards on table - I'm 57, a UK liberal (and Liberal Democrat as it happens!). I believe in allowing radials and politically 'incorrect' people to have a voice so their bigoted rhetoric or extreme views can be taken apart by logic, evidence and reasoned arguments. I do NOT believe in "No Platform" (and didn't as a student). In London, in Hyde Park, there is a place called "Speakers Corner" where anybody could state their views and others could engage them in polite and reasoned debate, the audience could agree of heckle them and differences could be dissected. We are afraid to tackle contentions issues or to engage with bigoted views. Why? Debate is how we destroy cruelty and bigotry with evidence.

[@Dreyno]

Which is why proportional representation is better than first past the post. It gives a voice to the extremes which prevents them from taking things into their own hands and it allows their views to be challenged in a public setting.

[@joannecunliffe8067]

@@DreynoTotally agree which is why I'm a Liberal Democrat. The trouble is getting the system to transition from first-past-the-post to PR is ... next to impossible in the UK. The UK has such utter inertia (I would call it sluggishness) at changing the system. Why do we still have a HEREDITARY/AWARDED upper chamber? It should be ELECTED. I need a soap box myself and need to get out of rant mode. UK's political system, (in)justice system, local government, health system and most of public office to be honest is so utterly corrupt to the core! (Stops to breathe like Yosemite Sam!). Yeah. Where do you start...

[@margaretgreenwood4243]

Thank you very much for this. Regards from here in the UK. Stephen Fry is Beautifully correct

[@souless08]

That was such an epic and beautiful master class of the most polite, verbal demolishing most anyone has ever given LOL

[@karendavidson4897]

Love Stephen Fry thank you from Australia 👍

[@nickimorley536]

Excellent that younger generation can be in awe of such a great mind, his passion is palpable, well done. 👏👏👏

[@nadeansimmons226]

I love your reactions. He is a treasure and you must read some of his books. I am on his side

[@JDizzlekl3yh]

You are such an amazing, intelligent young man ❤. Love from the UK

[@gniwtram]

I have always been unhappy with PC culture. Watching this has made sense of the harm it causes. I am very happy you did this reaction, and that I watched it.

[@IdleWorker]

I've always been unhappy with it too. But then I look at the retardation rightwingers bring and dont see any better alternative.

[@gazzzzza911]

As a fifty year old Englishman I am so encouraged to see a young person who is excited by this level of debate on such an important topic.

[@cantoris69]

Joel! Love that at the start you would comment ‘Oh my gosh’ and by the end you were saying ‘Oh my god’! Job done. Loved this - you helped me trust your generation!

[@ledoem]

Obviously I adore Stephen Fry, who doesn't? But as a swiss citizen what is strange for me is, that it seems in the rest of the world democracy is when the far left tries to be stronger than the far right and wise versa, when there are obviously more nuances between the two. I guess that's the problem in the UK and USA... Two extreme sides fighting each other instead many sides trying to work things out. Oh... and what does it mean when S.Fry thinks the real topic was not addressed and he could have said much more about it and J.Peterson doesn't think he has something to add in this particular discussion? It feels like Fry as an Actor has outsmarted Doctors, Professors and Politicians and they don't like it, so they don't speak about the topic in order to not get smashed down by Stephen...What he does anyway... Oh how much I adore Stephen Fry 😁👍

[@Simon-hb9rf]

watching Jordon Peterson "stone face" his way through this is hilarious, he often nods in agreement when stephen is clearly talking about people like him!

[@Dreyno]

He’s being skewered and hoping his clueless acolytes don’t understand that.

[@sethnmarshall]

Jordon Peterson should find a deep dark hole and stay there. He is one of the most vile garbage comes out of his mouth.

[@natis1268]

Let doubt prevail! That sums it all up. Respect.

[@margefield8520]

I'm used to hearing Fry and have always loved his discourse. Joel, I just loved your reaction and joy at hearing open and wonderful expressions of ideas and thoughts.

[@DannyHeywood]

First time watching (from the UK) it's very nice to see an American with an open mind.

[@nerdydrew6818]

This is why he’s a national treasure here in the U.K. ❤