Funny You Feel That Way: Bassem Youssef on Politics and Humor in Public Health

Dubbed the Jon Stewart of the Arab world, Egyptian cardiothoracic surgeon Bassem Youssef created the first political satire show in the Middle East, earning millions of viewers every week. Now residing in California, he shares his wry observations on his own story, the current state of American politics and how propaganda lays the foundation for dictatorial regimes.

Following his UNC-Chapel Hill performance of “The Joke is Mightier than the Sword,” Youssef will present “Funny You Feel That Way,” co-sponsored by the UNC Gillings School and Carolina Performing Arts, in which he explores the question: When does an individual have the responsibility to act on behalf of a community?

This is a central question for public health practitioners, and it is at the heart of Youssef’s personal experience. Join the satirist and YouTube comedy sensation for a conversation on the role of politics and humor in public health, moderated by Gillings professor Beth Moracco. The talk will take place from 12:30-2 p.m., followed by refreshments from 2-3.