I so vividly remember thinking, the first time I saw this episode, "OMG, did he just do that!?!" during the climax.

Raised the series from just another SciFi show to epic status in my opinion.

I have to disagree with Hershal. John Oliver does not talk down to his audience. I think Hershal's confused "talking down to someone" with being plainspoken. True, if you disagree with the point he's making, it is going to be a little uncomfortable to watch. Especially when he piles one solid argument on top of another in support of his position. That's the whole point. But Oliver is never condescending towards those that might disagree.