The film serves as a portrait of an egotistical, politically incorrect, and misanthropic academic who delivers a series of extended, computer-animated lectures on neurological, philosophical, sociological, and anthropological questions. Intertwined with these academic presentations is the narrative of his failing personal relationships and torrid romantic entanglements. Grounded heavily in genetics and neuroscience, the protagonist uses complex scientific models to rationalize his deep-seated contempt for others and his surroundings.