Skip to content

Altars Quote by Bo Burnham

“I know it's the comedian's instinct to say, "Do it, man, nothing's off-limits! It's cool, bro!" I don't know if that's the answer for me. "Do I really want to make a joke about a miscarriage when a woman in the audience might have had one?" I don't worship comedy; at the end of the day I don't…” quote by Bo Burnham
Download Open image
“I know it's the comedian's instinct to say, "Do it, man, nothing's off-limits! It's cool, bro!" I don't know if that's the answer for me. "Do I really want to make a joke about a miscarriage when a woman in the audience might have had one?" I don't worship comedy; at the end of the day I don't fall to the altar of comedy unquestioningly.”

Bo Burnham

About This Quote

Source Interview: Rolling Stone Magazine, 2021

Comedy's freedom has limits when jokes could harm vulnerable audiences; personal ethics guide humor.

In simple terms: Humor should respect others' pain.

Key Takeaway

Consider impact before joking.

Themes

ethics comedy responsibility

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • stand‑up
  • writing
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

Moral judgment audience sensitivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does humor become harmful?
  • How do you balance authenticity and empathy?
A Different Perspective

Comedy may still be constrained by societal norms.

3.2 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Bo Burnham

Explore all 258 Bo Burnham quotes

More Altars quotes

Browse all 329 Altars quotes