2014-10-14
Explanation
The Joke
Two people are discussing technology and superpowers. One observes that all the powers possessed by comic book superheroes will eventually be available to regular humans through technology. The other counters that, by that logic, the "boring" everyday social skills people already have will be the true superpowers of the future. The comic then jumps 500 years into the future, where a supervillain named "Gregarious Man" confronts the President. His terrifying power? He can make small talk. The President begs: "Just don'''t force me to make small talk!"
The Humor
The joke satirizes the assumption that superhero-like abilities (flight, super strength, etc.) are the most impressive traits a person could have. As technology makes those physical feats routine, the truly rare and impressive ability becomes something utterly mundane by today'''s standards -- being socially skilled and making pleasant conversation. The comedy comes from imagining a dystopian future where humanity has conquered every physical limitation but has apparently become so socially awkward that a person who can engage in small talk is considered a supervillain. This is also a sly commentary on the stereotype that technologically advanced or "nerdy" people often lack social graces.