Comic #4999: morals
Description
Here’s a detailed description of the comic:
Title: SMBC Comics
Panels Overview:
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Panel 1: Two characters are seen standing in a snowy landscape at night. The first character, with a light brown complexion and curly hair, says: “Do you think there are fundamental moral truths?” The second character, with a darker complexion and wearing glasses, responds: “Nah, it’s all social signaling.”
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Panel 2: The same two characters continue their conversation. The first character says: “It’s easy to prove. Imagine you know a guy who’s going back in time to kill baby Hitler. We’re all basically okay with that. We like that guy.”
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Panel 3: The second character looks thoughtful and responds: “But, imagine he’s going back in time to eat baby Hitler. What do you think of him now?” The first character shows a puzzled expression, replying: “Hmm…”
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Panel 4: The conversation deepens. The second character explains: “See, you’re automatically evaluating his moral standing in your social group. He’s up because he signaled willingness to harm bad people, but he’s down because he signaled he has the taste for baby flesh.”
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Panel 5: The discussion continues with the second character stating: “We’re all just glorified stimulus-response machines, constantly evaluating esteem for others based on benefit to self.”
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Panel 6: The first character, appearing confused, questions: “If it’s all signaling, why do we take these long walks together? Why keep me as a friend?”
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Panel 7: The second character replies with a grin: “We have kidney transplant compatibility.”
Background and Characters: The background is a starry night sky with snow-covered ground. The characters are dressed in winter clothing appropriate for cold weather, with visible expressions ranging from thoughtful to humorous.
This comic employs humor to discuss complex themes around morality and social interactions.