Funny Business

In a world where people are scrutinized for the smallest of judgements, those who are able to safely and effectively deliver real impending problems are key to society. Fortunately, comedians are able to satirically criticize society in such a way that other people aren't able to become upset over. With an invisible shield around their words, people can't take them too seriously lest they are accused of having no sense of humor. However, underneath the surface, their message rings clear for the audience of the injustice or cause being supported. By assuming a persona, one can avoid ridicule as if it's not their own words. For example, in A Modest Proposal, Swift proposes that children be "offered in sale" and be "render[ed]...plump and fat for a good table." If this was believe to be a sane person speaking, they would be immediately sent to therapy and possibly an insane asylum. This can be seen as it parallels the strive for political correctness in politicians since anything that is slightly incorrectly said or perceived as offensive, immediate and severe backlash follows that could potentially be career ending.Luckily, being acknowledged as satire and comedy, it can be received by the audience in a much more civil and analytical way. As for comedians, late night talk show hosts such as the clip of Steven Colbert we saw in class and Saturday Night Live are great examples of how these untouchable comedians can give information with a twist to convey a message. Skits such as pointing out the flaws in the Republican Presidential Debate have been able to both put a smile on the viewers faces and spin a gear in their brains. With millions of viewers, their influence is wide spread which can have an impact on a scene. Since humor always comes at the expense of something or someone else, it is usually a very fragile field in which many people can get offended if gone too far. Jokes alleviate this pressure since the affected side can be more understanding and accepting; but in the end, the damage is done. Comedians are critical in the role of pointing out flaws and injustices ranging from inconveniences to gender equality.