The Colbert Report Season 4 Episode 23 David Gracer, Richard Thompson Ford

David Gracer, an entomophagist, and Richard Thompson Ford, a Stanford law professor, join Stephen Colbert on The Colbert Report in season 4 episode 23. Gracer discusses his love for eating insects and the benefits of insect consumption. Ford talks about his book, "Rights Gone Wrong: How Law Corrupts the Struggle for Equality," exploring why some legal decisions have made it harder for marginalized groups to achieve equality.

Colbert starts the show by giving a monologue about how insects are a sustainable source of protein and how eating them could help alleviate food shortages worldwide. He then introduces Gracer, an entomophagist, who is passionate about eating insects. Gracer explains that he has been eating insects for over 20 years and that they are a great source of protein and can be found in abundance all over the world.

Colbert asks Gracer about the taste of insects, and Gracer explains that they have a nutty or earthy flavor but can vary depending on the insect. Gracer then offers Colbert a mealworm to try, and Colbert is hesitant at first but eventually eats it. Gracer also brings out a plate of baked crickets, which Colbert tries as well.

After trying the insects, Colbert brings out Ford to discuss his book, "Rights Gone Wrong: How Law Corrupts the Struggle for Equality." Ford explains how some legal decisions, such as affirmative action and the Voting Rights Act, have made it harder for marginalized groups to achieve equality. He argues that these laws have been upheld because they appear to be helping minorities, but in reality, they are reinforcing stereotypes and perpetuating inequality.

Colbert asks Ford about the Supreme Court's decision to strike down parts of the Voting Rights Act, and Ford explains that the decision was based on the idea that the Act was outdated and that the problems it addresses have been solved. Ford argues that this is not the case and that the Voting Rights Act is still necessary to protect minorities' voting rights.

The conversation turns to Gracer's insect consumption, and Ford expresses his disgust at the idea of eating insects. He argues that it is not a sustainable solution to the world's food problems and that there are other ways to address the issue. Gracer defends his insect consumption, saying that it is a sustainable and ethical way to feed the world's growing population.

Colbert then brings out a plate of chocolate-covered ants and offers them to Ford. Ford is hesitant at first but eventually tries one and says that it tastes like chocolate. The segment ends with Colbert and Gracer encouraging Ford to try more insects, while Ford remains skeptical.

The episode concludes with Colbert giving a final thought about the benefits of insect consumption and encouraging viewers to try it for themselves. The show blends humor and serious discussion, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of insect consumption and legal decisions affecting marginalized groups. It is an entertaining and informative episode that showcases The Colbert Report's unique style of political satire and commentary.