For non-US readers, and those unfamiliar with him, Stephen Colbert's persona on this show is a parody of a corporatist talk show host.
In times of general deceit, the truths are told in cabarets and comedy.
Spiritual pride leads to a lingering spiritual death. It turns the living being into a tomb, bright and polished on the outside, proudly ornamented with scrupulous attention to detail, and ostentatious adherence to the letter of the law — but inside full of corruption, and festering foulness. They love the rituals and the worldly forms of religion, but want nothing to do with mercy and love. It is a sickening romance with the self, unto death.
Jesse, Essere Umano, 20 August 2017