Ep 9. Self-Helpless

In season 1 episode 9 of Penn and Teller Bullshit, entitled "Self-Helpless," the dynamic duo sets their sights on the booming industry of self-help. From books to seminars to motivational speakers, self-help seems to offer its followers a chance to improve their lives and achieve their dreams. But as Penn and Teller demonstrate, the promises made by these self-help gurus are often empty and their methods unproven.

The episode begins with Penn and Teller attending a self-help seminar, where they observe the charismatic leader urging his followers to repeat positive affirmations and visualize their success. But when Penn and Teller interview some of the attendees, it quickly becomes clear that these techniques are not having the desired effect. Many of the participants feel like they're spinning their wheels, not actually making any progress toward their goals.

Next, Penn and Teller examine the bestselling books in the self-help genre, focusing on two popular titles: The Secret and Chicken Soup for the Soul. They point out the contradictions and flaws in the theories espoused by these books, and bring in experts to refute the claims made by their authors.

But the meat of the episode comes when Penn and Teller investigate the "motivational speakers" who make their living by traveling the country and giving talks to large audiences. They attend a seminar by a well-known speaker who encourages his followers to "find their passion," and stress the importance of positive thinking. But as always, Penn and Teller dig deeper, and discover that this speaker's own life story is riddled with contradictions and falsehoods. They also uncover the fact that these seminars are often used as a front for selling other products, like expensive DVD sets and coaching programs.

Throughout the episode, Penn and Teller employ their trademark brand of wit and sarcasm to highlight the flaws in the self-help industry. They demonstrate that many of the techniques touted by self-help gurus are not based on scientific evidence, and that the promises made to participants are often empty. They also make the point that everyone has a different definition of success, and that self-help can never provide a one-size-fits-all solution.

Overall, "Self-Helpless" is a scathing indictment of the self-help industry. Penn and Teller offer a clever and entertaining takedown of the industry's tactics, while also emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and individual autonomy. Whether or not you're a fan of self-help, this episode is sure to leave you thinking twice about the next seminar or book promising to change your life.