Changing Technologies Become Laughing Matter

Although those on the cutting edge of rapidly changing medical, industrial, and military technologies recognize the need to involve the public in a discussion about how to limit irresponsible applications, I tried to tell a joke that fell flat because those hearing it were unfamiliar with CRISPR.

The joke goes like this. A CRISPR scientist, Trump, a school child, and the Pope were on a damaged airplane that had only three parachutes. The CRISPR scientist, who I later explained was experimenting with the ability to edit cells to produce better crops and possibly to improve the immune properties of genes to cure cancer and other diseases, said she was about to make an important medical breakthrough that would save lives and grabbed one of the parachutes. Trump, who said he was the smartest man in the world and was needed to lead it, also jumped out. The Pope told the student to take the remaining parachute, because he had lived a long productive life and the child had his whole life ahead of him. The student said, "No worries, the smartest man in the world just took my backpack."

If for no other reason, we need to keep up with changing technologies in order to laugh at jokes. There are lots of other reasons, too. Wendell Wallach, in his book, A Dangerous Master, introduces everyone to the challenges of the new technologies and ways to make sure they work for us. (Also see the earlier post, "The Challenge of New Technologies: Prepare to Think.")

Super International Jokes

On Super Bowl (U.S. football) Sunday, I'm reminded of the joke about the announcer who gave the ball scores but failed to tell what teams were involved in the 14-3, 21-10, 59-0 wins.

     Kids might like the following jokes attributed to countries around the world:

What do Japanese parents tell their children? You're allergic to bees. Only get A's on tests.

What does the Loch Ness monster eat? Fish and ships.

In Dublin an Irishman asks Paddy the quickest way to Cork.
 Paddy says, "Are you on foot or in a car?"
The Irishman says, "In a car."
Paddy responds, "That's the quickest way."

Why do Argentinians look up to the sky every time there is a lightning flash?
They think God is taking their picture.

What is the fastest country in the world? Russia.

And from THE OATMEAL website:
Who is a penguin's favorite relative:
His/her Aunt Arctica.

(Hope no one is offended by these jokes.)