Episode 23. How Should Christians Think About the Arts and Humor? with Guest James Cary
Art and humor can be difficult to define, but we all know it when we see it. But how should Christians think about the arts and humor? Are there boundaries and rules to what Christians produce and consume? In this episode we’re joined by BBC comedy writer, author, and podcaster, James Cary. We discuss the importance of enjoying the arts, how comedy is about truth-telling yet still seems to be at odds with religion. Cary discusses his view that Art is important, life is poetry, the Bible is funny (and that Jesus is too). He answers questions on the risks of reading the Bible without a sense of humor, and the essentially human component of humor.
Resources mentioned
The Sacred Art of Joking by James Cary
How Lightyear is a bit of a Buzzkill by James Cary
Life is Beautiful (movie)
The Abolition of Man by C.S. Lewis
That Hideous Strength by C.S. Lewis
1984 by George Orwell
Animal Farm by George Orwell
Perelandra by C.S. Lewis
The Gospel According to a Sitcom Writer by James Cary
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
Going to Church in Medieval England by Nicholas Orme
Cynical Discourses by Helen Pluckrose and James Lindsay
The Real Great Escape by Guy Walters
Stranger Things Season 4