GUEST: Dr. David Dunning, Co-Author of “The Dunning-Kruger Effect”

John Hickam tells Homer the company doesn’t have leftover cement “for launch pads.”

“I just thought I’d ask,” says Homer.

“Besides, I told you no more rockets,” says John

“You said no more rockets on company property,” says Homer. “And Olga doesn’t own Snakeroot.”

John looks at Homer. “So, you walk eight miles?” asks John.

“Yes, sir,” says Homer. John ponders for a moment.

“Well, tell me something, Homer,” says John. “Uh, what exactly is this Wernher von Braun and the rest of those Germans accomplishin’ anyway? ‘Cause if you ask me, it’s nothin’ but a stunt.”

“You think catchin’ up to the Russians in space is a stunt?” asks Homer.

“When the novelty wears off, they’re all gonna be sent packin’, replies John. “Maybe then they’ll have to find themselves a real job.”

“Like minin’ coal?” asks Homer. John glares at Homer.

“You listen here,” says John. “The coal we mine makes steel, Homer. And if steel fails, this country fails. If you had half a damn brain in your head, you’d know that!”

In This Episode

• Jake Gyllenhall as Homer Hickam
• William Lee Scott as Roy Lee
• Chris Owen as Quentin
• Chad Lindberg as O'Dell
• Chris Cooper as John Hickam