30 ROCK

a)

This episode of 30 Rock is relevant to the subject of racism, and I think that is the reason we watched it. It’s a good example on how we like to think that prejudice and racism belongs to the past when in reality it still creeps around in the back of our minds. In the episode Liz, one of the main characters, gets a new neighbour down the hall. The new guy acts a little strange and has a darker skin tone. Based on his behaviour and some maps pinned on his wall she jumps to the conclusion that he might be a terrorist.

b)

Whether humour is a good or bad way to approach sensitive topic depends on what the topic is and if it’s a nice kind of humour or not. I find some jokes just plain cruel and I can’t imagine how anyone of the offended could find them funny in any way, but if humour is used in a way that can be at least a little funny for all parts involved I would say it’s a good thing. Everybody loves to laugh, and even though it’s nice to be able to talk about serious matters while smiling, it can also make people think that since you are joking about it it’s probably not such a big deal.