Tag: Bill Cosby

This weekend’s entertainment: A clip from “The Cosby Show”.

In this famous dialogue from the pilot episode, Theo tells his dad that he doesn’t aspire to make a lot of money like his parents. He wants to make just enough, like regular people. And so using Monopoly money, Cliff offers a classic lesson in economics.

Cliff: So how much do you expect to make a week for “regular people”?

Theo: $250.

Cliff: (pointing to the bed) Sit down. I will give you $300 a week. $1,200 a month. (Cliff hands the money to Theo)

Theo: I’ll take it!

Cliff: And I will take $350 for taxes.

Theo: Whoa!

Cliff: Oh, yeah. See, the government goes for the regular people first. So, how much does that leave you with?

Theo: $850.

Cliff: OK, now you’ll need an apartment because you are NOT living here. Now an apartment in Manhattan will run you at least $400 a month. (Cliff takes $400)

Theo: I’ll live in New Jersey. (Theo takes back $200)

Cliff: Now you’ll need a car. (Cliff takes $300)

Theo: I’ll drive a motorbike. (Theo takes back $100)

Cliff: You’re gonna need a helmet. (Cliff takes $50) Now figure $100 a month for clothes and shoes.

Theo: Figure $200. I wanna look GOOD.

Cliff: So, how much does that leave you with?

Theo: $200. So, no problem.

Cliff: There IS a problem! You haven’t EATEN yet! (Cliff takes $100)

Theo: I can get by on bologna and cereal. (Theo takes back his $100) So I’ve got everything under control PLUS $200 left for the month.

Cliff: You plan to have a girlfriend?

Theo: For sure.

(Cliff takes the remaining $200)

Cliff: (pointing at Theo’s empty hand): Regular people.