Ep 3. The Business of Love

In the third episode of the second season of Penn and Teller: Bullshit!, the dynamic duo takes on the "business of love." The episode delves into the world of dating services, matchmakers, and pickup artists to uncover the truth behind the industry that promises to help people find love.

Penn and Teller start by examining the claims made by dating services such as eHarmony and Match.com. They highlight the fact that these websites often use complex algorithms and personality tests to match people up. However, Penn and Teller argue that these algorithms are nothing more than a marketing gimmick, and that the real purpose of these websites is to make money by selling subscriptions.

Next up, Penn and Teller take on matchmakers, a profession that has been around for centuries. They question whether professional matchmakers really have the expertise to match people up successfully. They argue that most of the time, matchmakers rely on intuition and luck rather than any scientific method. Penn and Teller also raise eyebrows about some of the dating criteria of matchmakers such as selecting partners based on their astrological signs or even their blood type.

The episode then shifts focus to the world of pickup artists, who offer men advice on how to attract women with various techniques and tricks. Penn and Teller question whether these techniques really work and whether they are ethical. They interview various pickup artists including Mystery, the founder of the pickup artist community, who gives viewers a glimpse into the community's culture, beliefs, and tactics. Penn and Teller also explore the misogynistic tendencies of pickup artists and the potential harm that their teachings could have on men and women.

Throughout the episode, Penn and Teller use facts, humor, and common sense to debunk the business of love. They argue that the industry is not built on the goal of finding love but rather on the goal of making money. They also point out how the industry often preys on people's insecurities and emotions to get them to spend money on a service or product that may not provide them with what they want or need.

The episode is both entertaining and enlightening, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at an industry that promises so much but often delivers so little. Penn and Teller's unique brand of skepticism and humor shines through, making the episode a must-watch for anyone interested in the world of dating and relationships.

In conclusion, Penn and Teller: Bullshit! season 2 episode 3 takes on the business of love. The episode provides an in-depth and critical analysis of dating services, matchmakers, and pickup artists, highlighting the ways in which the industry often preys on people's emotions and insecurities to make a profit. With its blend of humor, skepticism, and insightful commentary, the episode is sure to be a hit with viewers looking for an engaging and thought-provoking look into the world of dating.