TED vs Sarah Silverman

After inviting her, and allowing her to hold a talk at their event, the TED talks founder disregarded Sarah Silvermans talk, detaching himself from any controversy he might have directly promoted

[@jasonschnur1114]

As a caregiver to a Down's individual and a father to a boy with autism, I say that "retarded" is the proper and inoffensive term to describe someone with mental retardation. Retardation is a word with a definition and it is not offensive. We have to stop letting morons adulterate our language and steal it from us.

[@isaacdinkins6200]

Literally everyone else in our field disagrees with you and you know that. If you are a caregiver you know how that word can affect the people we care for, which is why it has been completely stripped from any and all professional usage. Just because it was the "proper" term then, doesn't mean it's still proper now.

[@ACarter87]

@@isaacdinkins6200yea I’m sure all the truly mentally retarded people are super offended by that word …. 🤦‍♂️ By that logic you’re saying they are probably great at trigonometry as well ??? It’s a word…. If you can’t say it, why does it exist and have a meaning? Don’t worry I’ll wait

[@rayray4192]

@@isaacdinkins6200bullshit- it’s only a pejorative because some people decided it’s a pejorative word. Retard literally means to hold back from progress. Now, deference is an important concept and is a loving act- for sure. Some of us are weary of language police parsing words

[@mwfmtnman]

My aunt had downs syndrome and the term was retarded. It wasn't mean, it was descriptive.

[@thomassoliton1482]

I have been acquainted with a “retarded” man with Down’s syndrome for many years, and was admonished for referring to him as such by a health care professional. The fact is, he is socially retarted because his biological condition makes it very difficult to understand his speech. However, while he is mentally below average, he would fare much better if he had had corrective surgery early to minimize his speech impediment. I’m just saying that in this case (and probably not unique with Down’s syndrome individuals) “retarded” is probably more accurate than “mentally handicapped”. The point is, being criticized for using politically “improper” terms for people with disabilities without understanding the actual relationships involved doesn’t help anyone.

[@BigRalphSmith]

"I don't give a fuck about their advocates". Ultimate wisdom.

[@Brakathor]

I have to admit, that was a pretty damn good point, even though I'm not always a fan of Sarah Silverman. People who get offended on behalf of other people, ultimately don't care about other people's feelings: they only care about their OWN feelings and their OWN social standing.

[@choosegoose9730]

Eddie Huang has an Interesting story about his experience with TED as well. Always strange to hear what happens behind the scenes at TED.

[@adad-ec6ht]

She will be the worst mother in the world.

[@RebuttalRecords]

Sounds like you never had one.

[@georgefoster1241]

Why is it always the Jews on social media that we see? Aren't there any white people views?

[@greenleader4517]

She would have a point if she actually did it but she did not ,like all virtue signalling it is about them not the issue.She was never gonna do it and thats whats fucked up

[@RICHARDGRANNON]

Silvermans comedy is risky because she relies on the audiences social intelligence to understand what she is doing. Very risky!

[@KaitainCPS]

SPARTANLIFECOACH Yep. She essentially gets criticized for other people's stupidity.

[@corymiller1278]

That's so true lol.. well said, sir. Unfortunately that's why comics like Larry the Cable Guy and Jeff Foxworthy are so famous, never underestimate the number of stupid assholes in this world lol

[@karljoyce7263]

Wow this woman is supremely stupid and annoying

[@StevenCarinci]

SPARTANLIFECOACH Yeah cutting edge. Really risque cerebral genius. So like misunderstood. If only her audience were all like smarter. Damn...

[@RICHARDGRANNON]

Edgy comment bro.

[@gustavmaia]

Am I considered a bad person if that made sense for me? That was reasonable.

[@FirstNameLastNameSobrenome]

+Gustav Maia Well... being pepared to draw a conclusion based upon hearing only one side of the argument does NOT necessarily make you a GOOD person...

[@saxpprentice762]

I think not... that made sense to me too... because I think handicapped people with terminal illness deserve the happiness that Sarah's money could get... they can be taken care of really well while they are still living... had Sarah expound on this matter there will be no confusion... sometimes it is not what we say that hurts... it's how we say it

[@smurfyday]

+Gustav Maia No, just shows how idiotic TED was. It's no longer "a thing" anymore. This was one of the first signs.

[@MAGirlable]

+Gustav Maia I also find it very reasonable.

[@Aubry92]

+First Name Last Name I dunno if I wanna hear the perspective of the TED guy if he's just gonna disregard her talk like that. Shouldn't have booked her if you don't like what she's gonna say.

[@SonnySulouff]

First of all, I watched Sarah's TED presentation, and the audience loved her. Second of all, for a Sarah Silverman joke, this is pretty tame, so they shouldn't be surprised at all for the content. And third, this is a great joke! She makes great points and points out things that other people are "offended" by because they're uncomfortable acknowledging the truth. Way to go, Sarah, I'll always be a huge supporter!

[@shawnhartmann4581]

Seconded. She got laughs, that's her job. Literally her entire job. I enjoy Sarah Silverman. She is absolutely, brutally honest. Sometimes it makes me laugh, sometimes it makes me uncomfortable, but her work often makes me think. That's sexy as hell.

[@mrheckles6076]

The crowd definitely didn't "love her" lol It was a pretty fucking dead crowd.

[@hughjazzole2037]

the asshole that dissed her wants mentally retarded people w terminal diseases to never havc a home or or be treated well near the end,,,

[@tomdillistone8202]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZqYoWSFmbt_d8U

[@douglasalderman2647]

I loved her ted talk

[@fclavijo]

You're a genius Sarah, don't let anyone give you sh*t.

[@anthonymusto3537]

Were.

[@Arancil]

Agreed. One of the things Sarah Silverman does best is that she forces people to actually face prejudice. People who take offense at simply hearing certain words without considering context, intent and result frighten me. We are humans, capable of rational thought. Why do some people insist on not making use of that capability?

[@eXcommunicate1979]

Bill, let her speak, please.

[@XXthekingofyouXX]

+eXcommunicate1979 No, Bill, you're doing fine. The less that lying, hate mongering bag of shit says the better.

[@SilverSurfer-cc6vp]

+XXthekingofyouXX You got me curious. What is she lying and hate mongering about?

[@BigEvan96]

+XXthekingofyouXX Word. Would have been better If she used sign language and had Bill translate for her. That would have been funny.

[@kimmolaine8069]

Please don't.

[@RobotShlomo]

Sarah Silverman and "author" are two words that should never be in the same sentence together.

[@albakingification]

3

[@chelseafolk]

albakingification ooo

[@ThawedTroglodyteJury]

+RobotShlomo Technically she is an author. But yeah, writing isn't her strong suit.

[@Villagejonesy]

Sarah Silverman should remind TED of the Mick Jagger quote: "I've always said, if you cahn't take a joke, it's too f---ing bad."

[@sergiolobato1798]

I saw her TED talk and judging from the audience response, it was a successful session. It was like the people who booked her had never seen her stand up. The TED talks have some amazing speakers, and really bad speakers. Think Sarah gave a really good performance, much better than the "we need to smile more" speakers.

[@coco1301]

Sergio Lobato and she even triple checked that they knew who she is and what she does. very dissapointing!

[@11Garrett11]

She's ahead of her time - that's all there is to it! Funny as fuck, cute as hell, and pushing retarded social boundaries. If you didn't like her go back to sleep, sheep!

[@mittaconnor1448]

She actually was passionate about this and made a good point. But honestly, TED should know who she was if they invited her... And they probably should have asked about her material beforehand as well, know some of her stuff is more on the risqué side. Here I though TEd full full of smart people

[@davisa.j4518]

lol

[@gregoryantoniono3673]

TED: all the pomposity of higher education research without any of that messy "peer review." Oh yeah, and they charge suckers big bucks to attend so they can think they are "smart" and "hip." News flash: they're not.

[@sqgl]

TED were probably hoping Silverman would say something controversial so that they could respond with sanctimonious grandstanding.

[@travisbest9041]

+sqgl Bingo! :D

[@movies2616]

Yeah, censor away TED. Sheesh! Really lessens their credibility in my eyes.

[@petermartell748]

wow Sarah. Suddenly a fan. Smart, funny, beautiful and compassionate. You are the whole package

[@albertrogers8537]

As a sheer logician that was brilliant. She presents the fear of the problem that her handicapped adoptee might outlive her, and finds a solution! What kind of a person does this? A genius!

[@adsensedd]

Even if you don't enjoy her comedy, she is clearly a very smart person and makes a great point re: people with disabilities, their advocates and political correctness.

[@tommycharles4666]

***** Intelligence and wisdom are not the same thing.

[@BeholdJesse]

***** She's well spoken, and when she is vulgar, she is consciously doing so. It's not that she's an idiot, she just finds it funny. She is a comedian.

[@theEarlofChip]

BeholdJesse There's always an intelligent concept behind her "vulgarity", unlike Family Guy or Daniel Tosh whatever other gross-out or "offensive" humor there is. And don't bother with Maurice man, the guy is a sociopathic bigot.

[@davidharscheid2749]

***** Gee, a good-taste Judge.What are your bona fides for it? Vulgarity? Vulgarity? That's nothing compared to how people treat the first Black President.( Do you do that too?)You're an opinionated amateur, but that's okay, because you're not a very good one. Dig?

[@BeholdJesse]

theEarlofChip I think Seth Macfarlane has a lot of intelligent ideas backing his humor two. The both of them definitely share that stupid for the sake of stupid humor sometimes though. Which I appreciate, cause sometimes, farts are funny haha Also, I thought Tosh's standup wasn't too shabby either. He has an angle that isn't my favorite, but I think he's still a good stand up comedian

[@chsandstrom]

Do I have tinnitus?

[@psychochicken9535]

+Matt Cavic I think it was...SATAN! Coming out to say 'hello' for a second. ;)

[@beardedbaldingoldfartbutyo6985]

+Psycho Chicken No no no no no no no no no no no no Lizard Alien

[@mattedj]

Yes, your ears are still ringing and it's never, ever going to stop.

[@annaw252]

Thank you! I was looking all over the house trying to find the source of that noise.

[@Overton_Windows]

Mirk Jerken DAMN YOU TINNITUS! You’re a cruel mistress!!!

[@janparish8055]

I had not heard of this controversy but in my opinion Sarah is an angelic heroine. Not many (if any??) would choose to take on the challenge of raising a terminally ill, mentally challenged baby. It’s definitely a recipe for relentless fatigue and guaranteed heartbreak. But without her, what kind of life is that child destined for? I am a 76-year old empath who adores children, but I’m sad to admit my heart was never that big. I salute her, and wish her blessings and joy in this selfless mission.

[@Iconoclastithon]

She makes her wealthy, famous living off of insuling others, mockery, sarcasm, juvenile humor. But she gets offended and hurt when someone else does the exact same thing to her? Hypocrite crocodile tears! One who makes their living off of offending and hurting peoples feelings and being sarcastic and insulting should not be surprised or hurt if others do the same thing to them.

[@Iconoclastithon]

+James Hicks Are you capable of a reasoned, mature counter-argument or just ad hominem and strawman attacks{logical fallacies/debate fallacies..not facts}, as well as making stuff up. There was no William Baker who killed people in the salen witch-trials, and even if there was, how would pointing that out be a rational and mature ans valid argument? "You have the same name or a similar name to a bad person...that must mean you're as bad as that bad person". I mean, really? FYI: I'm an occultist and freethinker, I believe that the salem witch-trials as well as all other 'witchhunts"[of actual witches or people falsely accused of being withes; for withhunts of other types of people} to be monstrous and wrong. Why would I be ok with the persecution of witches when I'm an occultist, freethinker, egalitarian humanist myself? Criticism of feminism[an ideology} or of ONE specific female feminist who's clearly hypocritical and privelaged for her hypocrisy or the ideologies hypocrisies does not equal misogyny{hatred of females}. FYI: I'm a gender egalitarian. Have you an actual, reasoned, mature counter-argument or can you only respond with ad hominem and strawmen, like a juvenile. I welcome reasoned debate.

[@DarwinsMoth]

+Will Baker - She's not offended, she's put off at the hypocrisy.

[@TheAlice1865]

+Will Baker She does not hurt peoples feelings you moron. People like you are idiots. You just don't get it do you. Making jokes and laughing at each other is not hurting feelings. Sarah Silverman even makes jokes about herself. If you do not like her why are you watching her videos on KZbin?

[@Iconoclastithon]

+Nick Nickerson and you completely missed the point.

[@Fireholder1]

+Will Baker You're the point she makes in her comedy. You missed her point, and you'll more than likely miss mine too. Oh, the feels!

[@ragazziita]

I honestly don't see what is so controversial about what she said. Mentally-ill babies with terminal illnesses also have the right to have a family, at least for the short time they are among us. The only problem could be the word "retarded." As a non-native English speaker, I find this word offensive. But I'm sure she means no offense to these people.

[@fionamurphy7318]

+First Name Last Name the joke wasn't about the handicapped it was about herself and adoption. it's not like she went out and said something offensive about mentally handicapped ppl jeez ppl need to relax. if you can't laugh you cry so I'd prefer to laugh

[@BigEvan96]

Not the right content for a TED talk.

[@fionamurphy7318]

BigEvan96 Shouldn't have been invited to speak at it then. They knew what kind of comedian she was and booked her anyway. It's like booking a heavy metal band to be the choir for a wedding in a church and then complaining afterwards that they should have tailored this music accordingly

[@BigEvan96]

Fiona Murphy Well than she shouldn't try and pass herself along like she's some sort of intellectual. Maher did the same shit when he called himself a "libertarian". When it comes time to put up or shut up both of them got lambasted by the communities they claimed to be a part of.

[@fionamurphy7318]

BigEvan96 so you can't be a comedian and intelligent? Obviously you don't like them why watch them on youtube then?

[@kittimcconnell2633]

It takes someone with this kind of mental toughness to accept a sick baby as their own. Kudo to her and I hope her adoption bids are successful. Media has never yet figured out how to portray a radical notion like hers in a fair light.

[@rickrose5377]

I volunteer. I qualify, and would love to live with Sarah Silverman. Acquiring a terminal illness seems like a small price to pay.

[@jrcahill2]

The fact that TED has distanced itself from Silverman's talk makes me view her in a much better light.

[@cheesecake134]

People get too into her character and forget how smart and articulate she really is.

[@paulharris8551]

TED talks are mediocrity on parade. Sarah Silverman is undoubtedly the most original and candid speaker they have ever had. It may be sad that a comedian takes that prize, but that's not her fault. And I really dislike potty-mouthed comedians in general and I'm pretty conservative, but Sarah is a genuine artist and a truth-teller. I would compare her to the young Woody Allen. She deserves to be appreciated in this day when truth-telling is all but illegal.

[@moonunit1980]

She was making fun of how pretentious they are but they didn't get it lol, or they did and were pissed off.

[@verve92]

+paul harris TED is the anti-Bob and pink as it is!

[@PresidentialWinner]

REALLY? REALLY?? Have you heard the talks ? Some of the best shit i have seen.

[@AllenEnlow]

This made me cry. That is the sweetest thing I have ever heard, All jokes come from truth! I believe her. This is a wonderful woman!!!

[@auditamplifier8493]

It is a powerful point...

[@richardbowes6897]

Her 15 minutes are up.

[@josefc]

I was there, I was part of the standing ovation. I love her shows and think she was great, most people I talked with about this at TED2010 loved her. I was really surprised at Chris' tweet.

[@bestever1313]

its so admirable how much of a risk-taker this woman is.

[@ryansmith7670]

she has more balls than most men i know. most people wouldn't ever have the balls to go on stage, let alone perform a good set or performance. they'd shit their pants.

[@tegtsol]

just one question, DID she actually adopt??

[@mrktyb]

Sigh... Just another self-hating man...

[@veritasnunc8749]

teg tsol, I bet she did not. She is just a whiny b_tch. Not a real talent, like Robin Williams or Rodney Dangerfield.

[@thrdwldgrlcollins8085]

Risk taker ?? Or just plain protected. Big diff.

[@wootwoottoottoot]

"and frankly, I don't give a fuck about their advocates" one of my most favourite quotes ever

[@nathanielhellerstein5871]

Her joke was hilarious, and also horrifying. Sarah forgot that not everyone is as brave as her.

[@dylanblack3279]

"Whose job isn't to be funny" perfectly sums up the pc police

[@DavidBozek92109]

With all that said, I love TED talks and they are many out there that are fantastic. But as more info gets out about how they run their events, the admiration that many people have had for the organization has started to wane quite a bit. People speak for free, but yet they charge attendees big money to sit and watch. They make grown people share hotel rooms with each other, as if that's some type of hip communal/networking strategy. If you are a speaker you are literally NOT ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE PREMISES for like 12+ hours a day during the entire event. Don't you think they (the TED organizers) would know what Sarah is like in her act? In Sarah's defense, even with the most cursory effort at due diligence they should have know the risks they were taking. That would be like signing up Sam Kinison to speak but afterwards not broadcasting his act because the organization has a problem with people raising their voices.

[@kerby200099]

TED asked her to come and do a stand-up routine? Or did they invite her to do an actual presentation? It's all about context.

[@somewhatinformed716]

I think it's because she's a comedian they heard of that they thought to call her..... are you implying that TED should write the speeches? are you implying that people who gives speeches should not be humorous to listen to? it's so funny cuz it's true.... PC can't kill truth unless you let it.

[@11Garrett11]

Exactly! Are you actually telling me that they didn't ask her what she would be saying? Are we supposed to believe that they thought she wouldn't do exactly what she is known for up there??? People are so fucking retarded!!!

[@veritasnunc8749]

To ach his own. But she is not a great comedian, like Carol Burnet, or Rodney Dangerfield.

[@K3VYK3V1]

I like sarah silverman but i didn't find the joke funny and its pretty arrogant for her to say if you are offended by it then you don't think the mentally handicapped should be represented in art or expression.

[@billyt8868]

K3VYK3V1 that’s not what she said. it wasn’t an if:then statement. she was making a point relating to the joke, not saying IF people didn’t like it THEN they don’t want disabled people represented in the arts

[@PunchInDaBlogspot]

I weep for humanity as I peruse this comment section.

[@ParkerToFetch]

I don't see any reason for controversy with the idea of a Mentally Challenged Terminally Ill child being granted a great life (Sarahs rich) - When originally they'd grow up as the ward of the state. It's a random (strange) act of kindness, but the idea, while hard to imagine you'd think of yourself, is a good one. She's famous for silly songs, and racist, xenophobic or anti-theist jokes. So I'm really confused about why they expected anything different? Her jokes were...Sarah silverman style jokes. & Her discussion, while odd; is actually quite altruistic and noble.

[@MMODoubter]

It actually makes a lot of sense. The worry about your child's future is reasonable in that situation. I do think she has a better shot at adopted a retarded cat, though. That would solve the longevity problem, too.

[@tonyhancock3284]

Very good view however I sincerely hope Silverman matures into the role and doesn't continue with this nonsensical stance of thinking she's right all the time without considering the results, I fear the child would suffer as a consequence. You genuinely believe Ms Silverman understand the concept of utilitarianism? Ask all those parents who have had to change their lifestyles radically due to a disabled child and then ask yourself is this girl ready to become one of those parents? How hard was that struggle for those parents? You can't simply throw money at a problematic existence like this, if is unfair on the most vulnerable of humans, she has the resources yes but has she the mental strength and integrity to follow up with commitment what she evidently portrays as confidence?

[@FirstNameLastNameSobrenome]

+Parker So Fetch Check again. This recording is 5 years old, and Silverman still hasn't adopted a baby, mentally handicapped or otherwise.

[@ParkerToFetch]

Just because she didn't do it, doesn't mean it's not still a nice thing to do.

[@FirstNameLastNameSobrenome]

Parker So Fetch Absolutely. The idea sounds nice. It just shows that Silverman was merely using the plight of these children for her own benefit, which is disgusting.

[@ThomasGlynnJr]

I imagine there isn't much Sarah Silverman & I agree on, but I would certainly stand with her on this subject

[@blackace99999]

I personally love her voice her VA in wreck it ralph Perfect

[@blackace99999]

it's... cute?

[@blackace99999]

No I mean "It's" referring to her voice and yes I do understand how it can annoy most people but to "me" I find it cute

[@blackace99999]

Hey do me a favour and stop trying to tell me what I like cause I already know, thanks

[@blackace99999]

Thank you friend ;)

[@PMeursault]

That voice could etch glass

[@mechanoid2k]

I'm in love with sarah silverman.

[@maxermarcos]

I remember watching her TED talk without previous knowledge of her and it made for a poor first impression. I like it when comedians dare to touch delicate subjects, but the way she did it seemed to me rather tasteless. Even after watching her frame the performance as activism, it doesn't seem any more insightful to me on a second visit. Let's just say it wasn't her most ingenious show. That said, Chris Anderson is an asshole for treating her like that. He's had a US Army general speaking about how enlisting really young men that are confused in life and breaking them to turn them into obedient soldiers is the best thing that could happen to them. But no, let's throw shit at the comedian who made some questionable jokes.

[@williamfrantz949]

I just wish Bill would quit interrupting his guests.

[@gutenbird]

Please TED, put this online. Seriously.

[@dustydustydusty]

TED stands for that? holly fuckpeas. Thought it was some dude named Ted.

[@anautumnprayer]

I wouldn't consider Sarah Silverman a superbly funny comedienne by any means, her delivery being as stale and repetitive as it is, but the amount of personal offense taken to her humor in this comment section is astonishing and in some cases, just a bit silly. Your oversensitivity to shock-value comedy for the purposes of both invoking personal analyzation of such issues and for its own sake only serves to further prove Sarah Silverman's point at the end of this video (5:26 - 6:08). You can go ahead and post her jokes without the set-up or out of context all you'd like, but most people have seen her television programs and/or stand-up specials and recognize satire or sarcasm when it's directly in front of them. I never thought her humor could be considered too "high-brow" for some people, but clearly a large sum of you have completely missed the point.

[@wazaza2011]

This is great.. Selfless. She would give the child the best life he/she could get, for whatever time he/she lives. This is amazing !

[@MasterTop100]

I actually have a sliver of a glimpse of respect for her now...

[@LulzRoyce]

Every single time Bill says Clinton he pronounces it Clitton.

[@JohnDoe-pz7gx]

Sarah is 100% correct

[@kjellpihlstrom6709]

>TED >smart Pick one.

[@nandans2506]

2 of nephew's are adopted ..... I hope those kids don't watch this

[@RKroese]

That voice.... its hard just too listen to her.

[@inkyhip458]

+Rienk Kroese That voice.... it's just hard too! Listen to her! Is that what you meant?

[@RKroese]

Inky Hip You know what I mean... To quote mr. Horse: "No sir, I don't like it."

[@pougiebear66]

Have lost SO MUCH respect for the TED format...So much for their moto of openness of ideas... Always been a great fan of Sarah Silverman,even more so now...🤘😎🤘

[@katialavalle5696]

Me too. Last I checked they had pro Chinese communist party guests but sarah’s jokes are the bad thing to them?

[@katialavalle5696]

*propogandists not actual party members

[@lilbubba247]

I love the way this woman speaks. Great point.

[@biller2000]

time 3.17. Sarah's facial express and Bill's smile was the best!

[@philipdrexler6226]

Sarah, I love you more then ever! I am a recreation therapist and therefore an advocate for people with disabilities and I agree with you 100%! I know a fellow recreation therapist who used a wheelchair who calls himself a 'gimp.' Now I would never call him that but he wants to call himself that who the hell cares? I met a 60 year woman recently who said she still calls herself handicapped. One of her 'advocates' told her she should not use that word. This woman replied, "Why not? I was born with polio. I have always called myself handicapped. Why should I call myself anything else? And why should anyone else care what I call myself?" The PC Police only care being 'nice' not about being 'good.' A good person does not just talk about being good. A good person actually does good things like adopt a child who is mentally retarded and terminally ill. You are a good person, Sarah Silverman.

[@SilverSurfer-cc6vp]

+Philip Drexler For Sarah to qualify as a good person, as you define it, she would have to actually adopt that child.

[@BigEvan96]

+Silver Surfer 2142 Agreed. She talked about not wanting to worry about taking care of this person because the terminal illness would end their life. It wasa really weird cynically morbid joke. Clearly not the stuff you say at a TED talk.

[@somewhatinformed716]

+BigEvan96 well I must be missing the point I thought TED talks are about thinking. did you even consider thinking about what she said...... it's so funny cuz it's true. is there no room for Truth at a TED Talk?

[@MegaMalfurion]

I love her. Very cute and funny.

[@SamusAran1818]

She needs to be a co-host on his show. These two really work well together.

[@ThePeter172]

That was a great TED talk. Comedians should never be attacked for the topics of their jokes. The greatest controversy is just an opportunity for the greatest joke.

[@TedCutTheCheese]

I wanted this video to be about Ted the bear.

[@fredring7755]

Dammit thought she was beefing w/ Seth McFarlane's Ted

[@jedionwax]

Anyone else heard Eddie Huang's experience @ TED?

[@MazorKuziaki]

I think Bill has a thing for Sarah.

[@RottingintheMidwest]

Keyshell no, she is too old for bill's tastes.

[@Partysauce14]

We need more people like her in the world, but to be honest: if I created something like TED I would have a hard time standing behind something like that. It's such a controversial concept and it's very hard to say delicately

[@christschool]

She didn't say mentally retarded in her speech, she said retarded (so she lied during this interview). I doubt Sarah would say that today. She was reacting at the time to Sarah Palin's attempt to shame people that use that pejorative. I love Sarah Silverman and hate Sarah Palin, but on this issue, SS was wrong and I hope she has met some folks with MR. There is no other group in history so powerless as the MR community and picking on them is not funny to a lot of people, especially those that have MR folks as sons and daughters. Their life is hard enough without being made fun of by public figures. SS says she doesn't give a fuck about their advocates? Well their primary advocates are the awesome people you claim you want to be, i.e. their fathers, their mothers, sisters and brothers. I get she doesn't get that, but still. Here is what she said and the crowds reaction: “The only problem with adopting a retarded child is that the retarded child, when you are 80 is well, still retarded and that she wouldn’t enjoy the freedoms of setting them free at age 18, so she was only going to adopt a retarded child with a terminal illness so it has an expiration date, because who would adopt a retarded child with a terminal illness? Well, someone who was awesome like her”.

[@MrChuckDugan]

“The only problem with adopting a retarded child is that the retarded child, when you are 80 is well, still retarded and that she wouldn’t enjoy the freedoms of setting them free at age 18, so she was only going to adopt a retarded child with a terminal illness so it has an expiration date, because who would adopt a retarded child with a terminal illness? Well, someone who was awesome like her”. I actually took it that Sarah was saying that when she dies, who will look after the child, not that she's going to have to look after her until she's 80. But i have flu, so i may have missed the point completely.

[@MrChuckDugan]

Yes, i am right. That's exactly what she was saying. If she dies, who will look after the elderly handicapped "child". Therefore, if she adopts a handicapped child that is terminally ill, she won't have to worry about that. I get some people not liking this joke, or bit, but like most offensive jokes that people get uppity about, it makes you think and question. This bit actually breaks my heart because it makes me think of the scenario of leaving behind a loved one that cannot take care of themselves.

[@christschool]

What happened to that poor 18 year old special needs man in Chicago that was tortured by the 4 teens is the worst nightmare for all of us who has a child with special needs. One day, we won't be there to protect them.

[@user-td4zp4gq2p]

I met sarah at a benefit for the mentally challenged and she had tears in her eyes and was overwhelmed by all the hugs she got from the kids.❤😊

[@rogerdavis5142]

What a shame she can't bear children and pass on her wonderfulness!

[@lapelcelery42]

Sarah's "controversial" comedy, whether you think she's funny or not, is always well thought out and she always gives a perfectly reasonable account for herself when asked. People often get offended because they don't understand the difference between a joke dealing with race and a racist joke. People don't understand what satire is.

[@twstf8905]

I think she's great, I've always thought so. And, she's kinda pretty and sexy in a weird way lol I don't know what it is, some girls aren't pretty in a, "traditional," way but pretty all the same.

[@pbergonzi]

Not weird at all--her gorgeousness reflects her spirit, and her brightness, well..., her brights.

[@ianbruce4314]

She funny, sexy the whole package, marry me baby

[@mjcruiser4238]

“ it’s only in bad taste -if it’s not funny”

I am sad to get to know this circumstance this late (11 years late): I think this is against anything TED proclaims to be: open minded, progresive, caring and INTELIGENT

[@tiffsaver]

Sarah Silverman rocks... period.

[@slinkyvagabond2991]

tiffsaver actually no she is a provable bigot and liar

[@tiffsaver]

slinky vagabond And what are YOU, jag off??

[@slinkyvagabond2991]

well i dont claim to be perfect but im not a bigot and im not a liar. note the completely emotional reaction you had completely devoid of any logic or reason lol

[@slinkyvagabond2991]

once again you emotional reaction at hearing your little hero is actually a shameless liar is very amusing to me

[@tiffsaver]

slinky vagabond What's "amusing" is how you fail to attack Barack Obama, the economy, the NSA, the Fed, corrupt Wall Street bankers, or a senator near you. Instead you specialize in going after female comics. Now THAT's "emotional logic" for you.

[@Nightbird.]

Sarah Silverman is a comic genius, because she pushes buttons and talks about things most people pretend they don't think themselves, but they do. She holds nothing sacred, nothing is too sensitive to discuss..and in the end..we need that. We need people like her to shake us up..to call our bullshit..to make us realize how much of what we hold dear is utter nonsense and garbage. She reminds us that we are our own worst enemies, and we must laugh at all our crap in order to grow. Bravo Sarah! =)

[@NicksMovieMix]

the last line says it all........New Hampshire. Live Free, then Dia.

[@innnews6299]

We should be applauding anyone who really make an effort to make the world a little better, especially to those in need.

[@geezzerboy]

Go Sarah. I witnessed the decline of TED. It was good, once, long ago.

[@TheDirtyRake]

The general consensus on Silverman is you love/hate her, but she's more of an in between for me. She reminds of someone who is naturally intelligent, but didn't have much of an education. She has some clever bits and some dull ones. She makes good points in arguments, but isn't very charismatic so the point can be lost in her confusion. She is thoughtfully edgy, but the meaning in her extreme works is lost because of her tendency to revert to obscenity in personal defense. Honestly, given a proper education and constructive home-life, Sarah might have been the next Don Rickles. Pity.

[@JLEWISBEN]

That last line is really patronizing. Yikes.

[@milascave2]

TheDirtyRake Really? Don Rickles was a terrible comick. He had no jokes, just ethnic slurs. Silverman was, at first, much better.But she kind of seems to have blown her wad and is now repeating old stuff or doing weak juvenile stuff. Her TV show was TERRIBLE, though that may not have been all her fault.

[@jv-lk7bc]

Sarah Silverman isn't very charismatic?! I wonder if you've seen her. Could someone "not very charismatic" publish a book called 'the bedwetter" and still get booked?

[@ClayBlasdel44]

13 years ago ?????????????

[@FR-ph]

the baby joke is simply genius.

[@PillCozbee]

OK it's 4 years later, how's that child doing Sarah?

[@hueynewt1]

It's a bit

[@apokist]

hueynewt1 A crap one...and all of her defence was about how she was serious about it, it is rubbish

[@iseedeadpeople127]

I love Sarah Silverman. Her work on Roasts are brilliant, and she's one of my favorite comics! You can, however, see how she gets controversy and negativity through her work. As TED is a well-established medium for thinkers, writers and performers to give talks on socio-cultural issues, I CAN most definitely see how they found her material offensive. As a disabled person, I got that tightening around my heart when she described handicapped people as 'retarded'. As we are living in such an accepting world now (next to no racism, marriage equality, no ableism) the term 'retarded' is slowly funneling out of society. The use of that word is frowned upon now, I think, and as Silverman broached the topic of disability in a negative way, TED is in every right, as the upper-class, global medium of expression that they are, to be a bit pissed. Having said that, I love a good laugh: and as she is a comic, who most likely doesn't do the things she says she does and just says them for comic impact, I reckon it's been blown out of proportion. All in all, I love Sarah, she's great, but this one was a bit fringe for me.

[@tsfbaf303]

Jamie Trower Why are people pretending, any normal person would use 'retarded' for someone with mental challenges (except for really uneducated people that also make racist, sexist comments etc), it's only used in jokes. Language evolves and it evolved into another term for 'really stupid'.

[@bradh6185]

Maher is beginning to look like Hugh Hefner.

[@MrReymoclif714]

I know(resigned) I'm grown up too. What a tone of Voice?

[@MrClemJohnson]

Adopt me, I'm in my 60's, so I'good for maybe 20 years.

[@6610stix]

MrClemJohnson Same here! And just to sweeten the pot a little, can I mention that I have a reasonably healthy bank account and have been diagnosed with pre onset stupidity?

[@luvsilly60]

Adopt someone older so they will die before you

[@henrygentles1894]

If only everyone was Like Sarah!! Amazing Woman!

[@pdg61met]

she's a bitch. She jumps all over anyone who disagrees or challenges her with her own mistakes. She is too far left.

[@LarryRichelli]

I so want to do her. I would die and go to heaven if I could!

[@spacedoginnebraska]

I'm sure that turns her on to no end, hearing that.

[@11Garrett11]

I agree Henry she rocks!!!!! People calling her a cunt are: A) sensitive little butterflies and B) incredibly uptight, and C) the kind of people she is making the joke about. LOL

[@SWassonable]

could you share/reveal your sources of information?

[@betelgeuseism]

That was reasonable indeed...

[@Gary10457]

Im sitting here like a moron waiting for the teddy bear from that move Ted to show up thefuk

[@vice2versa]

+Knokks lol, funny as hell.

[@seronis]

I spent 8 years as a care giver for people with mental disabilities. Her intentions here are to make people THINK. She uses a shock value to do that. She didnt use the term retarded in even the slightest bit of a derogatory manner. What she did do was bring up a way (using humor) that might actually get someone else to consider the idea. I think she is awesome for this. Also the issue her 'solution' addressed really is a huge issue. And if someone does choose to adopt a retarded child with a terminal illness the important part is what kind of life they can provide for them while they are still living. A friend of my ex wife is a nurse who does this very thing. She adopts terminally ill (and usually mentally handicapped) children who have no other family willing to take them. She provides a home for them and a loving environment. This is something that happens. And its something that needs to happen for the life of these individuals to be as full as possible. Sarah brought the issue into the public using the method she knows best and she should be commended for it

[@robvangessel3766]

I've listened to some compelling TED speakers on NPR and loved it, but I'm stunned by the "sensitivity" of this curator in reaction to Silverman's comments, particularly since she seems to mean it about adopting out of genuine compassion for someone disabled from birth. Given TED's standards, I'm stunned its personnel didn't simply invite an extended dialogue with Sarah. Maybe that guy would have found the clarity he needed.

[@imabott7053]

Damn it, for the first time in my life, I really appreciate Sarah Silverman.

[@TheZeePeople]

God, I love her!

[@mshara1]

Guess Sarah Silverman's age by her looks: a) 20 b) 25 c) 30 She's 43...

[@WilloPR]

33?

[@veganath]

Vegetarians tend to look younger than their age

[@Knyghtrida]

20,25,30?!? wtf? why are those the only options, thats ridiculous. really though 20? 25? its moronic to even list those two. i would have said 38 maybe, so yeah older than i thought but the fact that you put 20 and 25 is insane.

[@dojinho]

Goldenboy617 I think mshara1 was just making a statement and did not mean to be taken literally. Probably didn't actually expect responses either!

[@nitzarg2414]

ATTENTION!!! pause at 2.35 to see the actual Sarah without makeup..fugly as hell. the after 5 seconds, BOOM, filter is ON and she looks flawless. congratulations, TV has again made a fool out of you.

[@pamhartery442]

"Cast not pearls before swine." Her humor was above their heads. For them to react that way just shines a light on their ignorance.

[@Debunker246]

thanks for uploading ..

[@hatemailizer8978]

She's funny sometimes, but has become a bit of a one trick pony imo.

[@herbertwells8757]

"I don't like people whose job it isn't to be funny to tell me what is or isn't funny." You may not like it, Sarah, but it's the job of a real comedian to listen to non-comedians tell them what is and what isn't funny. Non-comedians, that is to say, audiences, tell comedians whether they're funny by laughing or not laughing. If no one laughs at your jokes, they're not funny. If no one laughs at your jokes, they're not even really jokes, and you're not really a comedian. If you don't recognize that accepting the verdict of audiences is part of your job, then "being funny" really isn't your job. TED erred in inviting Silverman, and it was right to apologize.

[@FirstNameLastNameSobrenome]

+Herbert Wells I don't like comedians whose job it isn't to be art critics to tell other people they can't be critical of art.

[@mikec8735]

My nigga

[@jv-lk7bc]

she wasn't talking about not listening to audiences. Just the reverse. she got the laughs. she was talking about being attacked by the people who hired her (hypocrites!).

[@agibson0164]

I was so hoping this was about TED Nugent.

[@granskare]

I know a guy named Don Silverman when we both were at Nettlehorst School in northern part of Chicago but we both went different ways :)