Penguins of Madagascar and the Smallpox Vaccine
Summary
Host John Green reviews the opening scene of *Penguins of Madagascar* and the smallpox vaccine. He critiques the film’s depiction of human interference in nature, linking it to the myth of lemming suicide. Green then reflects on the history of smallpox eradication and his personal experience receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, emphasizing that immunity is a collective, not just individual, achievement.
Topics discussed
Introduction and book release announcement
Provocative opinions and the Penguins of Madagascar opening
Analysis of the Penguins of Madagascar scene
The lemming myth and Disney's White Wilderness
Humans as mindless followers in the Anthropocene
Dreams and reality of getting the COVID vaccine
History of smallpox and its devastation
Personal reflection on immunity as a public space
Variolation and early attempts at immunity
Pandemic separation and fear of relief
Edward Jenner and the invention of vaccination
Global effort to eradicate smallpox
Reunion with parents and final rating
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