Let me preface this by saying I love George Carlin.

I think my only problem with him is the same problem I have with every famous opinionated person; and it's not even really about them, it's about the people who cite them, or see them as above reproach.

In performance, Carlin is a mirror in which those who grew up in strict religious families and are now athiest (or antithiest) can see themselves. Because what he says fits in their world view, he is somehow above reproach. When someone who is religious posts content from someone who fits into their world view, that person is scrutinized to death, all flaws pointed out. But these same people will never do that to Carlin, who in many ways occupies the same space as Televangelists.

I mean, start that clip i posted from the beginning. without the laugh track, is anything really that funny? or is it just straight criticism and ridicule of religion said in a "funny" tone of voice?

Carlin is a complicated character for me because of what he represents to other people - Just like Bob Marley, or Richard Strauss.