Satire is a particular genre of literature and performing arts in which entities and individuals may be ridiculed. Commonly, the object of a satirical production is an individual in power or the government more broadly. In this type of production, the individual or entity’s vices or shortcomings may be exaggerated for comedic relief and as a form of public shaming. This form of commentary is usual
ly politically charged and blurs the line between truth and outrageousness. In some satirical forms, the comments are intentionally injurious and offensive. In particular, satire provides a form for individuals to criticize the government, thus enhancing public rhetoric. When it is aimed at political issues, it can be construed as political speech, which is the most protected form of speech under the First Amendment. Through this form of satire, individuals can freely ridicule leading political figures, religion and other forms of power. If influential, satire has the ability to get administrations to amend or establish new policies. Satire provides constructive criticism of certain individuals and entities. It may also help expose certain characteristics of an entity or individual to help establish awareness of these characteristics throughout society. Ideally, satire will help society communicate about social issues. Additionally, satire provides a way for society to reveal its values and beliefs. It also allows social communication regarding how powers are structured. Through this form of satire, the collective beliefs of a culture can be preserved and later evaluated by progeny. Satire protects the right to culture, science and artistic production. Satire is individually-constructed and therefore may contain different elements. However, many forms of satire feature parody, exaggeration, sarcasm, analogy and irony. We are not responsible for your lack of intelligence to differentiate satire from reality.
