Ep 11. Buddha

Great Minds with Dan Harmon is a comedic and educational show that takes place in a time-traveling simulation where Dan Harmon, the creator of Community and Rick and Morty, meets and interviews some of the greatest minds in history. The show combines humor and history as well as Harmon's unique take on the subject matter.

In season 1 episode 11, titled "Buddha," Harmon meets Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. Harmon travels back in time to India, circa 500 BCE, and finds himself sitting under the Bodhi tree along with Buddha. In his usual fashion, Harmon opens the conversation with a joke, but Buddha reminds him of the seriousness of his teachings. Harmon is taken aback but continues the conversation with respect and curiosity.

The episode dives into the life and teachings of the Buddha, discussing his journey from a privileged life as a prince to a wandering ascetic seeking enlightenment. Buddha explains his four noble truths that form the foundation of his teachings, that life is suffering, the cause of suffering is desire, suffering can be eliminated, and there is a path that leads to the end of suffering. Buddha and Harmon also discuss the practice of mindfulness and how it can help individuals improve their mental and emotional well-being.

Buddha also talks about non-attachment and how it can lead to a more fulfilling life. He explains that attachments to material possessions and desires can lead to suffering and that the path to enlightenment is through letting go of these attachments. Harmon, being a modern man, questions the feasibility of this in today's world, but Buddha provides timeless wisdom that is still relevant today.

The show also includes comedic interludes, such as when Harmon attempts to introduce Buddha to aspects of modern culture, such as Twitter and selfies. Buddha does not quite understand the appeal of such things but tries to maintain an open mind. The show also features sketches where Harmon and Buddha imagine alternate scenarios, such as if Buddha had found enlightenment on a tropical island.

Throughout the episode, Harmon shows his admiration and respect for Buddha and his teachings. He acknowledges the similarities between Buddhist teachings and his own struggles with mental health and addiction. Buddha provides Harmon with insights into how to live a more fulfilling life and how to find inner peace through mindfulness and letting go of attachments.

The episode ends with Harmon thanking Buddha for his time and wisdom. He expresses his hope that more people can discover the teachings of the Buddha and implement them in their daily lives. Harmon also acknowledges the comedic aspects of the show and how it has helped him cope with his own struggles.

In conclusion, season 1 episode 11 of Great Minds with Dan Harmon, titled "Buddha," is an entertaining and educational episode that combines humor and history to provide insights into the life and teachings of the Buddha. Dan Harmon's unique perspective and humor helps to make these teachings accessible to a modern audience, and the episode provides a compelling argument for the relevance of these teachings in today's world.