I don't get this video. At first glance, it seems to be a scathing mockery of The Dawkins, and crew, for both their boorish arrogance, as well as for their intolerance and suppression of opposing viewpoints (of which greed and a lust for power are insinuated to be the motives). On the other hand, the lyrics, if taken literally, are pro-Evolution, pro-Dawkins, etc. Thus, many atheists have fallen in love with this video (over at The Dawkins' blog, Pharyngula, etc.). So, is this video a sarcastic parody of the follies of modern dogmatic scientists, or is it a video made in their support? I'm still personally leaning towards the first interpretation, though I can see why the second might be held, as well.
In any case, there are some inaccuracies in the video, as well. Namely, the two philosophers referred to as Democritus and Aristotle are actually Aristotle and Plato, from Raphael's The School of Athens. I understand, in the context of the video, the conflict represents science vs. faith, but seriously, why would Aristotle be physically attacking Plato? It doesn't make any sense to me...
That silliness is one of the reasons I like it. To me it really really resembles satire, but I could be wrong. The whole robot-throw-the-guy-out thing is pretty satirical, esp when he has Expelled stamped on his forehead.
Thanks for that. I love it.
ReplyDeleteI don't get this video. At first glance, it seems to be a scathing mockery of The Dawkins, and crew, for both their boorish arrogance, as well as for their intolerance and suppression of opposing viewpoints (of which greed and a lust for power are insinuated to be the motives). On the other hand, the lyrics, if taken literally, are pro-Evolution, pro-Dawkins, etc. Thus, many atheists have fallen in love with this video (over at The Dawkins' blog, Pharyngula, etc.). So, is this video a sarcastic parody of the follies of modern dogmatic scientists, or is it a video made in their support? I'm still personally leaning towards the first interpretation, though I can see why the second might be held, as well.
ReplyDeleteIn any case, there are some inaccuracies in the video, as well. Namely, the two philosophers referred to as Democritus and Aristotle are actually Aristotle and Plato, from Raphael's The School of Athens. I understand, in the context of the video, the conflict represents science vs. faith, but seriously, why would Aristotle be physically attacking Plato? It doesn't make any sense to me...
That silliness is one of the reasons I like it.
ReplyDeleteTo me it really really resembles satire, but I could be wrong. The whole robot-throw-the-guy-out thing is pretty satirical, esp when he has Expelled stamped on his forehead.