The article argues that the TV show *Friends* reflects and promotes anti-intellectualism in American culture. The author focuses on Ross Geller, the show's intellectual character, who is often mocked by his friends for his intelligence and interests. This consistent belittling suggests a societal trend of devaluing intellect. The piece also connects the show's 2004 finale to a broader cultural shift towards embracing ignorance, highlighting events like the rise of reality TV and the release of Green Day's *American Idiot*. Overall, it's a compelling critique that makes you reconsider the impact of popular media on societal values.