Political satire is a great way to get students thinking critically about politics and to engage them in analyzing current events. Plus, it is really enjoyable. For some scientific evidence in support of that, check out the results of my teaching experiment, Satire and Efficacy in the Political Science Classroom.
Satire is often best when very topical, but the pieces in the Satirical Resource Repository are ones that I think stand the test of time. Browse, search, and suggest satire below.
Contribute to the Satirical Resource Repository by submitting a link here.| Subfield | Concept | Format | Title | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Politics | Political Participation | Article | American People Ruled Unfit To Govern | 4/14/1999 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/american-people-ruled-unfit-to-govern,748/ | The Supreme Court declares the American public unfit to govern, due to apathy and lack of political knowledge. |
| American Politics | Voting | Article | Huge Democracy Geek Even Votes In Primaries | 10/2/2002 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/huge-democracy-geek-even-votes-in-primaries,1389/ | Differences between primary and general election voters |
| American Politics | Civil Liberties | Article | Bill Of Rights Pared Down To A Manageable Six | 12/18/2002 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/bill-of-rights-pared-down-to-a-manageable-six,15/ | Post-9/11 some rights are eliminated from the constitution. |
| American Politics | Collective Action | Article | Citizens Form Massive Special Disinterest Group | 3/17/2004 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/citizens-form-massive-special-disinterest-group,1144/ | Citizens who dont hold strong preferences attempt to organize. |
| American Politics | Voting; Political Influence Disparities | Article | Scratch 'N Win Ballots To Debut In November | 7/19/2006 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/scratch-n-win-ballots-to-debut-in-november,2002/ | Lottery tickets to determine number of votes each citizen can cast. |
| American Politics | Mid-term Elections | Video | Daily Show Rock! - Mid-Term Elections | 11/6/2006 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-november-6-2006/daily-show-rock----mid-term-elections | Parody of School House Rock illustrates the problems of incumbency advantage and low voter turnout. |
| American Politics | Elections | Video | Ron Pauls Colbert Bump | 6/21/2007 | http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/88989/june-21-2007/ron-paul-s-colbert-bump | Appearing on The Colbert Report gives Ron Paul a huge bump in the polls |
| American Politics | Civil Liberties | Video | Internet Censorship: Animated Editorial Cartoon | 10/15/2007 | http://youtu.be/pV1V1nusPjk | Internet censorship as a violation of civil liberties. |
| American Politics | Media and Military | Video | The Less You Know - Message Force Multipliers | 4/22/2008 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/tue-april-22-2008/the-less-you-know---message-force-multipliers | Pentagon uses ex-military leaders to communicate the Bush administrations message on Iraq |
| American Politics | Public Financing | Video | Indecision 2008 - Finance Reform | 6/23/2008 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-june-23-2008/indecision-2008---finance-reform | Obama goes back on public finance pledge |
| American Politics | Bureaucracy | Video | Be Patient This Gets Amazing - EPA E-Mail | 6/25/2008 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-june-25-2008/be-patient-this-gets-amazing---epa-e-mail | EPA and Bush Administration clash over greenhouse gas regulations |
| American Politics | 2008 Election | Cartoon | The Politics of Fear | 7/21/2008 | The New Yorker. Available online by searching New Yorker Obama Cartoon on Google Images. | Magazine cover depicting stereotypes of Barack and Michelle Obama |
| American Politics | Gender and Elections | Video | Sarah Palin Gender Card | 9/3/2008 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-september-3-2008/sarah-palin-gender-card | Juxtaposed media clips illustrate double standard for female candidates |
| American Politics | Gender and Elections | Video | Palin / Hillary Open | 9/27/2008 | http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/palin-hillary-open/656281/ | Tina Fey and Amy Poehler as Palin and Clinton discussing sexism in the campaign |
| American Politics | Isolationism | Image | Seuss1 | 10/5/2008 | http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/seuss1.jpg | The United States' historical tendency to go vascilate between isolationism and internationalism. |
| American Politics | Isolationism | Image | Seuss1 | 10/5/2008 | http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/seuss1.jpg | The United States has a tendency to go between isolationist and internationalist tendencies, notably being isolationist before the last world war. |
| American Politics | Undecided Voters | Video | The Stupid Vote | 10/7/2008 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/tue-october-7-2008/the-stupid-vote | Influence of (often uninformed) swing voters |
| American Politics | Interest Groups | Article | Powerful Special Interest Group Momentarily Blanks On Agenda | 10/21/2008 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/powerful-special-interest-group-momentarily-blanks,6411/ | Ironically, a narrowly-focused interest group forgets its issue |
| American Politics | Filibuster | Article | Breaking: Obama to Nominate Jesus Christ to the Supreme Court- Republicans Announce Filibuster. | 5/1/2009 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/5/1/726798/-BREAKING:-Obama-to-nominate-Jesus-Christ-to-Supreme-CourtRepublicans-Announce | Congressional opposition is always quick to oppose the President, regardless over what. |
| American Politics | Campaign Promises | Article | Obama Revises Campaign Promise Of 'Change' To 'Relatively Minor Readjustments In Certain Favorable Policy Areas' | 5/29/2009 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/obama-revises-campaign-promise-of-change-to-relati,6743/ | Obama has a hard time following through on lofty campaign promises. |
| American Politics | Interest Groups | Article | Obama Delivers Whispered, Untelevised Speech On Gun Control | 2/4/2011 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/obama-delivers-whispered-untelevised-speech-on-gun,19068/ | The power of the NRA makes it difficult for the president to speak out on gun control |
| American Politics | Gay Marriage | Article | Future U.S. History Students: 'It's Pretty Embarrassing How Long You Guys Took To Legalize Gay Marriage' | 2/8/2011 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/future-us-history-students-its-pretty-embarrassing,19099/ | Future students are surprised by homophobia, just as current students are surprised by the racism of previous generations. |
| American Politics | Congress | Article | Congress Gets In 12 Solid Hours Of Gridlocking Before Calling It A Day | 5/4/2011 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/congress-gets-in-12-solid-hours-of-gridlocking-bef,20304/ | Difficulty of passing legislation through Congress. |
| American Politics | Going Public | Video | Armadebtdon 2011 - Call Congress | 7/26/2011 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/tue-july-26-2011/armadebtdon-2011---call-congress | Obama urges Americans to call Congress and ask for a balanced approach to the debt limit |
| American Politics | Political Parties | Image | DC Earthquake | 8/27/2011 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/b/2011/08/27/political-cartoons-of-the-week-104.htm | Political polarization between parties hampers the ability of the legislature to function. |
| American Politics | Voter Fatigue | Image | How to Increase Voter Turnout. | 2/2/2012 | http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ey8tkpGpu1g/TuE-av-EKcI/AAAAAAAAAB4/MavtaHxUji4/s1600/6.jpg | Voter turnout in the United States is extremely low, to the point that American voters vote more for American Idol than for politicians |
| American Politics | Supreme Court | Image | Partisan Supreme Court | 4/5/2012 | http://media.caglecartoons.com/media/cartoons/10/2012/04/05/109446_600.jpg | Supreme Court Justices are portrayed as the animals of their political affiliations |
| American Politics | Political Parties | Image | Campaign Push | 8/24/2012 | http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Cartoons/2012/August/Campaign-Push.aspx | It is in the best interest of political parties to publicly shun candidates who harm the partys credibility |
| American Politics | Federalism | Image | May I Peas Be Excused? | 1/14/2013 | http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Cartoons/2013/January/May-I-Peas-Be-Excused.aspx | Obamacare serves as an example of federalism, as red states arent necessarily cooperating |
| American Politics | Federalism | Video | Gun Control & State Sovereignty: Cliff Sloan | 1/29/2013 | http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/423308/january-29-2013/gun-control---state-sovereignty---cliff-sloan?xrs=share_copy | Article 6 of the U.S. Constitution asserts the power of the Federal government over the states, verses states maintaining nullification through the Tenth Amendment |
| American Politics | Drones | Video | Skygall | 2/6/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-february-6-2013/skygall | There is a lack of clarity in the Obama administration about the limitations on the use of drones |
| American Politics | Constituencies | Article | Rich White People Get Latino Guy To Do Some Work For Them | 2/13/2013 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/rich-white-people-get-latino-guy-to-do-some-work-f,31285/ | Reaching out to ethnic groups successfully is a vital move for modern day political success |
| American Politics | Bipartisan cooperation | Article | Obama, Congress Must Reach Deal On Budget By March 1, And Then April 1, And Then April 20, And Then April 28, And Then May 1 | 2/27/2013 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/obama-congress-must-reach-deal-on-budget-by-march,31460/ | Polarization causes gridlock on important decisions, like budgets. |
| American Politics | Political Parties | Image | Reaching Across the Aisle | 3/2/2013 | http://www.cagle.com/tag/reaching-across-the-aisle/#.UTvCchzCaSo | Political parties have a tendency to point fingers at their opponents rather than take responsibility themselves |
| American Politics | Checks and Balances; Filibuster; Congress | Image | War Powers | 3/8/2013 | http://media.townhall.com/Townhall/Car/b/lb0308cd20130307091737.jpg | Rand Pauls filibuster of Obamas nomination of Brennan is an example of Congressional oversight over executive power. |
| American Politics | Midterm and Special Elections | Video | On Topic- Indecision- Midterms and Special Elections | 3/11/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-march-11-2013/on-topic---indecision---midterms-and-special-elections | Midterm and special elections have low turnout and a small effect the balance of power in Congress. |
| American Politics | Political Speeches | Video | On Topic- Politicians Speak- Speeches | 3/18/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-march-18-2013/on-topic---politicians-speak---speeches | Catch phrases, campaign speeches, sponsors, rhetorical tools and political posturing color all political speeches. |
| American Politics | Gaffes | Video | On Topic- Politicians Speak- Gaffes | 3/18/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-march-18-2013/on-topic---politicians-speak---gaffes | The gaffe can make or break a political campaign |
| American Politics | Debates | Video | On Topic-Politicians Speak- Debates | 3/18/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-march-18-2013/on-topic---politicians-speak---debates | Debates serve as a forum for politicians to assert themselves. |
| American Politics | Congress | Video | On Topic- Division of Power- Congress | 3/21/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/mon-may-21-2012/on-topic---division-of-power---congress | Reasons why people view Congress as inefficient |
| American Politics | Presidential Power | Image | The King Can Do No Wrong | 09/24/2008 | http://paw.princeton.edu/issues/2008/09/24/pages/2698/index.xml?page=9 | FDRs expansion of presidential power, particularly in his third term, was hotly debated. |
| American Politics | Congress | Image | Congress Popularity | 1/13/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Congress-Popularity.htm | Congresss approval ratings have been notoriously low. |
| American Politics | Women in Combat | Image | Women Already in Combat | 1/20/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Women-Already-in-Combat.htm | The Pentagons decision to allow women onto the frontlines is a reflection of modern realities in the American military. |
| American Politics | Gridlock | Image | State of Disunion | 2/10/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/State-of-Disunion.htm | The opposing party has a lot to gain politically from questioning the President. |
| American Politics | Congress | Image | Congress Crisis, Inc | 2/17/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Congress-Crisis-Inc-.htm | Congress has been struggling politically. |
| American Politics | Redistricting | Cartoon | The Gerry-mander | 3/26/1812 | The Boston Gazette. Available online by searching Gerrymander Cartoon on Google Images. | Political redistricting creates strangely shaped electoral districts |
| American Politics | Political Parties | Image | Herding Cats | 3/3/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Herding-Cats.htm | Getting politicians to agree in the Republican party is difficult. |
| American Politics | Polling | Video | How Pollsters Work | 2/5/2011 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhNoUUDeViU&feature=related | On the BBC show Yes, Prime Minister pollsters get a balanced sample by changing how they ask survey questions. |
| American Politics | 2000 Presidential elections | Cartoon | Official Florida Presidential Ballot | 6/22/1905 | http://0.tqn.com/d/politicalhumor/1/0/V/j/florida_confusing_ballot.jpg | Solve the puzzle to cast your vote |
| American Politics | Presidential Debates | Parody Article | Bush-Gore Presidential Debate Transcript | 6/22/1905 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/library/bldebateparody.htm | A transcript of what was heard during one of the Bush-Gore debates |
| American Politics | Supreme Court | Article | Supreme Court Overturns Car | 12/9/1997 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/supreme-court-overturns-car,1632/ | The Supreme Court throws a wild party |
| American Politics | Lobbyists / Ethics | Article | Senate Ethics Committee To Meet In New Ethics Committee Mansion | 2/15/2006 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/senate-ethics-committee-to-meet-in-new-ethics-comm,1897/?ref=auto | The Senate weighs ethics issues best when secluded...in corporate funded opulence |
| American Politics | Campaign Finance / Political Parties | Article | Third-Party Cola Demands Ad-Campaign-Finance Reform | 11/6/2006 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/thirdparty-cola-demands-adcampaignfinance-reform,2085/?ref=auto | Third party soft drinks call for an end to two brand dominance |
| American Politics | Campaigns / Pandering | Article | As Obese Population Rises, More Candidates Court Fat Vote | 1/21/2008 | http://www.theonion.com/video/as-obese-population-rises-more-candidates-courting,14203/ | Politicians attempt to take advantage of Americas growing waistlines in a blatant display of political pandering |
| American Politics | Framing | Video | O-SPAN: Congress Struggles to Come Up With Cool Name For Drug Law | 7/10/2008 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05VYJZgIyKQ | Congress has a difficult time coming up with a catchy title for their new drug bill. |
| American Politics | Youth involvement in Politics | Video | Election 08: Study Finds Youth Dont Follow Office Politics | 7/29/2008 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHm7-Z4spHw | Studies show that todays youth are apathetic towards office politics, much to the concern of their older colleagues. What impact will their refusal to participate have on the future political order? |
| American Politics | Negative Campaign Advertising | Video | Election 08: Obama Runs Constructive Criticism Ad on McCain | 9/30/2008 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPTB7-ecDC8 | The Obama campaign decides to run some constructively critical ads against McCain. |
| American Politics | Campaigns / Pandering | Video | In The Know: New Live Poll Lets Pundits Pander To Viewers In Real Time | 7/10/2009 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFpK_r-jEXg | New live polls allow pundits to adjust their comments according to the beliefs of the audience in real time. |
| American Politics | National Debt; fiscal policy | Video | US Government Stages Fake Coup to Wipe out National Debt | 8/4/2009 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRgRz3nSG7o | Government resorts to unconventional methods in order to solve debt crisis |
| American Politics | Three Branches of American government | Video | Looney Tunes: Daffy Duck for President | 9/16/2009 | http://youtu.be/VJXhXGE2CR0 | Daffy Duck uses all three branches of government to fight Bugs Bunny |
| American Politics | Civilian Control of the Military | Video | US Army Chain of Command | 12/1/2009 | http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/257716/december-01-2009/u-s--army-chain-of-command | Colbert explains what the of the US Army Chain of Command shouldnt look like |
| American Politics | Economics | Image | Jobs | 7/4/2010 | http://city-countyobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Political-Cartoons-Jobs-0714101.jpg | The public sector overpowers the private sectors ability to create jobs. |
| American Politics | Lobbyists | Article | American People Hire High Powered Lobbyist to Push Interests in Congress | 10/6/2010 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/american-people-hire-highpowered-lobbyist-to-push,18204/ | In order to increase their influence amongst their elected officials, everyday Americans have banded together to hire lobbyists to represent them. |
| American Politics | Gridlock in Congress | Image | Super -committee | 1/10/2011 | http://media.cagle.com/10/2011/10/01/98752_600.jpg | Partisan polarization often keeps Congress and in this case the subcommittee within it, from working effectively |
| American Politics | Free Speech | Video | Supreme Court Revokes Annoying Man's Free Speech Rights | 8/19/2011 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTmN8C4tbwk | Annoying man loses right to free speech |
| American Politics | Populism | Video | Presidents Approval Rating Soars After Punching Wall Street Banker in The Face | 10/14/2011 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pt5VUhZODGg | President Obamas approval ratings skyrocket after punching Wall Street Banker |
| American Politics | State of the Union; rhetoric | Video | The State of the Union is Strong, Says Man Burdened With Shielding Americans From the Truth | 3/8/2012 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLMPm0M3PNM&list=UUfAOh2t5DpxVrgS9NQKjC7A | The State of the Union is strong, as long as you have the right frame of mind, a healthy imagination, and a willingness to be deceived by politicians. |
| American Politics | Social Media | Video | Report: Every Potential 2040 President Already Unelectable Due to Facebook | 4/26/2012 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2bniFJigI0 | Due to social media, regrettable actions can now be captured in real time and broadcast to the world. |
| American Politics | Undecided Voters | Video | Undecided Voter | 9/3/2012 | http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/undecided-voter/n27698/ | Undecided voters have some very important questions for the candidates |
| American Politics | Identity Politics | Article | DNC Keynote Speaker Definitely Not Keynote Speaker Only Because He's Latino | 9/4/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/dnc-keynote-speaker-definitely-not-keynote-speaker,29435/ | The DNC attempts to preempt any accusations that their keynote speaker got the spot by being Latino |
| American Politics | Election 2012 | Video | The Onion Voters Guide to Barak Obama | 9/24/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/video/the-onion-voters-guide-to-barack-obama,29673/ | A well-informed public is vital to the health of democracy. This video attempts to provide viewers with background information on President Barack Obama. |
| American Politics | Election 2012 | Video | The Onion Voters Guide to Mitt Romney | 10/2/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/video/the-onion-voters-guide-to-mitt-romney,29764/ | A well-informed public is vital to the health of democracy. This video attempts to provide viewers with background information on the head of the GOPs 2012 ticket, Governor Mitt Romney. |
| American Politics | Swing States - Ohio | Video | The Onions Swing State Analysis: Ohio | 10/8/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/video/the-onions-swing-state-analysis-ohio,29840/ | Several of the past elections have been decided by just a handful of swing states. This video is a humorous introduction to the swing state of Ohio. |
| American Politics | Swing States - Florida | Video | The Onions Swing State Analysis: Florida | 10/12/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/video/the-onions-swing-state-analysis-florida,29924/ | Several of the past elections have been decided by just a handful of swing states. This video is a humorous introduction to the swing state of Florida. |
| American Politics | Voting | Video | Florida to Experiment with new 600 lever Voting Machines | 10/14/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/video/florida-to-experiment-with-new-600lever-voting-mac,29700/ | A new voting machine is the answer to Floridas troubles |
| American Politics | US Foreign Policy | Article | The Idiots Guide to Foreign Policy | 10/22/2012 | http://www.indecisionforever.com/blog/2012/10/22/the-idiots-guide-to-foreign-policy | A satirical look at several regions and US policies therein |
| American Politics | Campaigns | Article | US Baby Kissing Ring Exposed | 11/5/2012 | http://www.newsbiscuit.com/2012/11/05/us-baby-kissing-ring-exposed/ | Thousands of politicians have been implicated in a nation-wide baby kissing ring |
| American Politics | Female voters | Video | Girls on the Side | 12/4/2012 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/tue-december-4-2012/girls-on-the-side | In Order to win elections, the GOP must extend a hand to women voters |
| American Politics | Congress | Video | Authorities on Alert as Hundreds of Crazed Sociopaths Enter Congressional Chambers | 3/19/2013 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/authorities-on-alert-as-hundreds-of-crazed-sociopa,31732/ | The Congressional Chambers are being overrun by (duly elected) sociopaths, who are spending countless hours droning on about obscure topics. |
| American Politics | Obstructionism | Video | The Red Tape Diaries | 3/27/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-march-27-2013/the-red-tape-diaries | Obstructionism is a political tactic being used by Republicans. . |
| American Politics | Islamaphobia | Video | Sharia Mops | 3/27/2013 | http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/424812/march-27-2013/sharia-mops | Tennessee lawmakers mistake a mop sink for a Muslim foot bath. |
| American Politics | Environmentalism | Image | Climate Change Delay | 11/15/2009 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Climate-Change-Delay.htm | The United States refuses to comply with international treaties about climate change. |
| American Politics | Economic systems | Web page (printable) | Parable of the Isms | http://www.two-cows.net/if_you_have_two_cows.html | Many different forms of government and economic systems are compared in this classic parable. | |
| American Politics | Taxes / Budgeting | Article | Nation Demands Tax Dollars Only be Wasted on Cool Stuff | http://www.theonion.com/articles/nation-demands-tax-dollars-only-be-wasted-on-stuff,17704/ | Americans have decided: if the government must waste money, they should do so on cool stuff. | |
| Comparative Politics | Treaties / Alliances | Article | Chinese, Ants Announce Alliance | 10/9/1996 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/chinese-ants-announce-alliance,1121/ | A groundbreaking treaty has brought together two of the most populous political groups in history. This article touches on power politics, and the formation of alliances based on mutual interest. |
| Comparative Politics | Coups | Article | Bloodless Coup a Real Letdown | 2/16/2005 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/bloodless-coup-a-real-letdown,1291/ | Revolutionaries are saddened to hear that a coup in a small Central Asian nation was executed efficiently and with minimal bloodshed. |
| Comparative Politics | Preemptive War | Article | Democratic Middle Eastern Union Votes To Invade U.S. | 6/22/2005 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/democratic-middle-eastern-union-votes-to-invade-us,1345/ | A coalition of Middle Eastern countries decides the U.S. is a dangerous rogue state that must be contained |
| Comparative Politics | Democracy | Article | Iraqi Constitution Ratified, Burned | 11/2/2005 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/iraqi-constitution-ratified-burned,1825/ | Difficulties of the democratic transition |
| Comparative Politics | Dictatorships | Video | In The Know : Kim Jong-Il's Approval Rating Plummets to 120% | 3/7/2008 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn5f0-y71tE | Kim Jong Ills approval ratings fall below 150% for the first time |
| Comparative Politics | Global Reaction to US Elections | Video | International Male | 11/6/2008 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-november-6-2008/international-male | Various global leaders react positively to Obamas election |
| Comparative Politics | Party Identification | Video | Changeling | 4/29/2009 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-april-29-2009/changeling | Specter changes parties |
| Comparative Politics | Afghan elections | Article | Afghan Presidential Election A Celebration Of All Forms Of Government | 11/11/2009 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/afghan-presidential-election-a-celebration-of-all,2847/ | In Afghanistan all forms of government are on proud display |
| Comparative Politics | US-China Relations | Video | SNL Skit: President Obama and Hu Jintao Hold Joint Press Conference at G-20 | 11/17/2010 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGlbRrF_Bas | Former Chinese President Hu Jintao asks Obama when the US will pay China back the money its owed. |
| Comparative Politics | African Countries; National Identity | Article | Guinea, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau no longer sure which is which | 1/17/2011 | http://www.newsbiscuit.com/2011/01/17/guinea-equatorial-guinea-and-guinea-bissau-no-longer-sure-which-is-which/ | People are confused by the similar sounding names of a group of African nations. |
| Comparative Politics | EU Debt Crisis | Article | Greece dresses troops in German uniforms and reverse-invades self | 6/25/2011 | http://www.newsbiscuit.com/2011/06/25/greece-dresses-troops-in-german-uniforms-and-reverse-invades-self/ | This NewsBiscut article discusses the ramifications of the Euro Crisis on national identities and domestic politics. |
| Comparative Politics | Comparing US and Canada | Video | Playground politics - Canada | 9/7/2011 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4fvNPlx6mQ | The difference between Canada and the US |
| Comparative Politics | EU Debt Crisis | Article | Greece Shocked to Learn It Is Now Owned By Germany | 10/1/2011 | http://www.newsbiscuit.com/2011/10/01/greece-shocked-to-learn-it-is-now-owned-by-germany/ | After agreeing to a bailout deal, Greek officials forgot to read the small print. They were shocked to discover that they are now wholly owned by Germany. |
| Comparative Politics | Israeli-Iranian Relations | Article | Radicalized agnostics threatening to derail Middle East war process | 3/7/2012 | http://www.newsbiscuit.com/2012/03/07/radicalised-agnostics-threatening-to-derail-middle-east-war-process/ | Radical Agnostics are coming between two nations that seem destined for war |
| Comparative Politics | European Union | Article | Why the European Union Won the Nobel Peace Prize | 10/12/2012 | http://www.indecisionforever.com/blog/2012/10/12/why-the-european-union-won-the-nobel-peace-prize | A list of reasons why the EU won the Nobel Peace Prize |
| Comparative Politics | Public opinion / Intervention | Article | Having Gone This Far Without Caring About Syria, Nation To Finish What It Started | 11/12/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/having-gone-this-far-without-caring-about-syria-na,30346/ | Public opinion towards intervention in Syria has never been high, and no matter how bad the situation there becomes Americans will continue to be apathetic. |
| Comparative Politics | Israeli-Palestinian relations | Article | Palestinians, Israelis Come Together to Mock Obamas Hopelessly Naïve Speech | 3/21/2013 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/palestinians-israelis-come-together-to-mock-obamas,31767/?ref=auto | The Palestinians and Israelis finally find common ground: Obamas ideas to solve their long-simmering disputes are hopelessly naïve. |
| Comparative Politics | Socialism | Cartoon | Socialism Illustrated | http://0.tqn.com/d/politicalhumor/1/0/K/k/1/socialism_explained.jpg | When asked for spare change, a man gives it-by reaching into the pocket of a passing stranger | |
| International Relations | Human Rights | Article | How Many Atrocities Does It Take To Get Into USA Today? | 12/1/1999 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/how-many-atrocities-does-it-take-to-get-into-usa-t,10894/ | Satire written from the perspective of the attention-seeking President of Burundi |
| International Relations | Ethnic Conflict | Article | Northern Irish, Serbs, Hutus Granted Homeland In West Bank | 6/20/2001 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/northern-irish-serbs-hutus-granted-homeland-in-wes,305/ | Ethnic minorities centrally located to minimize conflict |
| International Relations | Military Intervention | Article | N. Korea Wondering What It Has To Do To Attract U.S. Military Attention | 2/12/2003 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/n-korea-wondering-what-it-has-to-do-to-attract-us,35/ | Feeling left out and unloved by the US military, North Korean ruler Kim Jong Ill wonders what Iraq has that his county doesnt. |
| International Relations | United Nations | Article | U.S. Forms Own U.N. | 3/26/2003 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/us-forms-own-un,145/ | The US gets frustrated with the slow pace and indecision of the UN |
| International Relations | Classified Documents/ Government Secrecy | Article | CIA Realizes Its Been Using Black Highlighters All Along | 11/30/2005 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/cia-realizes-its-been-using-black-highlighters-all,1848/ | After an internal review, it is discovered that the CIA has mistakenly used black highlighters on publically available documents. |
| International Relations | Coups | Article | Rebels Immediately Regret Seizing Power In Zambia | 12/6/2006 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/rebels-immediately-regret-seizing-power-in-zambia,2103/ | Rebels learn the difficulties of governing after taking over in a coup. |
| International Relations | Global Relations | Video | Ali G - International Relations | 12/8/2006 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6_BU9El33k&feature=related | Strategies for Foreign Policy, Gulf War, Iran and Iraq. |
| International Relations | Somalia | Video | Somali political cartoon | 1/18/2007 | http://youtu.be/etVcB0GrV2I | Cartoons depicting the turmoil in Somalia, including the creation of Somaliland |
| International Relations | Economic development | Video | Chinese Boom: Animated Editorial Cartoon | 2/17/2007 | http://youtu.be/90PEu2M9LnU | Chinese society faces development challenges because of its stark divisions between rich and poor. |
| International Relations | Balance of Power | Video | Billions and Billions | 8/22/2007 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-august-22-2007/billions-and-billions | The US balances power by supplying money and weapons to all sides |
| International Relations | Historical Analogies | Video | Magical History Tour | 8/23/2007 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-august-23-2007/magical-history-tour | President Bush analogizes Iraq and past wars |
| International Relations | Political Regimes | Video | Fidel Castro: Animated Editorial Cartoon | 2/27/2008 | http://youtu.be/0t0KHivBaBs | Death of a totalitarian leader does not necessary ensure the end of a totalitarian regime. |
| International Relations | International Conflict | Video | Russo-Georgian Conflict | 8/14/2008 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-august-14-2008/russo-georgian-conflict | 2008 Presidential candidates propose different solutions to conflict |
| International Relations | The Cold War | Video | The Cold War Animated | 11/30/2008 | http://youtu.be/bIGk9qu2_iM | The Cold War arms race forced the economic collapse of the Soviet Union. |
| International Relations | United Nations | Article | Ban Ki-Moon Asks Firmly to speak with Iran | 8/28/2009 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http://www.thespoof.com/news/spoof.cfm%3Fheadline=s3i58835 | The United Nations lacks the proper authority to force rogue nations to comply with its mandates. |
| International Relations | Power Politics | Article | Liechtenstein, Andorra Forced To Fight By Larger Countries | 9/11/2009 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/liechtenstein-andorra-forced-to-fight-by-larger-co,2803/ | Growing bored with mere economic negotiation, the larger countries of Europe decide to bully a fewer smaller states |
| International Relations | Palestine | Video | Palestinian Alarm Clock | 11/18/2009 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7_0NoRHOEM | Satirical take on Palestinians use of violence |
| International Relations | International Aid | Video | Funny Or Die Presents: Playground Politics--Africa | 2/12/2010 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Si1lxcwJqI0 | Children on a playground act out Africa receiving aid from the IMF |
| International Relations | North Korea | Video | Funny Or Die Presents: Playground Politics--America and North Korea | 6/21/2010 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZheoDvQ_UUQ | Children on a playground act out the US negotiating with North Korea |
| International Relations | Iranian politics | Video | Kaveh Adel Political Cartoons about Iran | 9/23/2010 | http://youtu.be/bscGxZYkvv0 | The events of the chaotic 2009 elections in Iran led to many uncertainties among the Iranian people about the regime. |
| International Relations | International Media | Article | Standoff In Ivory Coast Threatens To Boil Over Into Full-Scale News Blurb | 1/13/2011 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/standoff-in-ivory-coast-threatens-to-boil-over-int,18813/ | Even major international news items get little attention |
| International Relations | Revolutions in MENA | Video | The Rule of the Nile | 1/27/2011 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-january-27-2011/the-rule-of-the-nile | Discussion of who deserves credit for uprisings |
| International Relations | Dictatorship | Video | North Korea Launches New Ad Campaign | 3/1/2011 | http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/71f30e0a5d/libya-unrest-north-korea-launches-new-ad-campaign | North Korea is a great destination, compared to MENA, because of stability. |
| International Relations | Realism vs. Idealism | Video | America at Not-warObamas Pragmatic Foreign-Policy Decisions | 3/29/2011 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/tue-march-29-2011/america-at-not-war---obama-s-pragmatic-foreign-policy-decisions | Comparing Obamas pragmatic rhetoric on Libya to more idealistic rhetoric from other presidents |
| International Relations | US-Israeli Relations | Article | Government Official Who Makes Perfectly Valid, Well-Reasoned Point Against Israel Forced To Resign | 5/20/2011 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/government-official-who-makes-perfectly-valid-well,20499/ | United States unconditional support for Israel hurts debate |
| International Relations | US Relations with Mexico | Video | Playground politics - Mexico | 9/7/2011 | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-CvvT0ojMg&feature=related | Children on a playground discuss the drug trade between the US and Mexico |
| International Relations | Eurozone Debt Crisis | Video | A Closer Look at Europe | 11/18/2011 | http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/weekend-update-a-closer-look-at-europe/1366743 | Satirical news report of the Eurozone Debt Crisis |
| International Relations | American hegemony | Image | Uncle Sam and the United Nations. | 12/1/2011 | http://blog.seattlepi.com/davidhorsey/files/2011/12/Sam-UN-19921-640x448.jpg | The United States emerges as the dominant world power after the fall of the Soviet Union. |
| International Relations | Dependency Theory | Image | Sweat Shops | 2/7/2012 | http://media.caglecartoons.com/media/cartoons/34/2012/02/07/105888_600.jpg | The United States benefits from cheap labor in countries like China. |
| International Relations | Iranian nuclear development | Video | No Exit Existential Threat | 2/17/2012 | http://youtu.be/yAbKCuQSof4 | The Iranian government hopes to use the leverage of fear of its nuclear development and nuclear capacity to gain power in the region. |
| International Relations | Warfare | Article | UN Rules Should Make Wars a Little Less Rapey and Killy | 2/24/2012 | http://www.newsbiscuit.com/2012/02/24/un-rules-should-make-wars-%E2%80%98a-little-less-rapey-and-killy%E2%80%99/ | The UN attempts to make warfare a little less distasteful |
| International Relations | War | Article | U.S. Military Desperate To Be Handed Just One Solid War It Can Knock Out Of The Park | 3/28/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/us-military-desperate-to-be-handed-just-one-solid,27770/ | The US Military wants a real opponent next time |
| International Relations | US-China relationship | Article | US Signs Declaration of Dependence on China | 10/26/2012 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/us-signs-declaration-of-dependence-on-china,30113/ | The US officially acknowledges its dependence on China in writing |
| International Relations | Government Censorship | Image | Censorship China | 1/8/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/b/2011/08/27/political-cartoons-of-the-week-104.htm | Media censorship in China has a direct impact on the amount of information accessible to citizens |
| International Relations | Gay Marriage | Video | Keep Calm and Marry On | 2/6/2013 | http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/wed-february-6-2013/keep-calm-and-marry-on | Comparisons between debates over gay marriage in the United States and the United Kingdom |
| International Relations | Diplomacy | Article | US Ambassador Politely Asks UN Colleagues to Stop Showing Up Drunk to Meetings | 3/4/2013 | http://www.theatlanticwire.com/global/2013/03/us-ambassador-politely-asks-un-colleagues-stop-showing-drunk-meetings/62750/#.UTX6J77xcE4.facebook | American political primacy gives the country considerable leeway in how it conducts diplomatic affairs with other nations. |
| International Relations | Authoritarian Regimes | Image | The Pallbears | 3/8/2013 | http://www.usnews.com/usnews/php/galleries/image.php/1717/5/5.jpg | Authoritarian leaders support each other. |
| International Relations | Israel | Article | Obama Sarcastically Asks How Israel Afforded Such A Great Missile Defense System | 3/20/2013 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/obama-sarcastically-asks-how-israel-afforded-such,31750/ | Its no secret how Israel is able to attain the means to build its arsenal, particularly with American support |
| International Relations | Sino-American Relations | Image | Obamas Bow | 11/15/2009 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Obama-s-Bow.htm | Chinas ownership of U.S. Treasury bonds has a direct impact on political interactions. |
| International Relations | China | Image | China Army Hackers | 2/17/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/China-Army-Hackers.htm | Despite denials to the contrary, it is fairly obvious that the PLA has been responsible for Chinese cyberhacking. |
| International Relations | China | Image | Chinese Espionage | 2/17/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Chinese-Espionage.htm | China acts friendly diplomatically but engages in cyber espionage against the United States |
| International Relations | North Korea | Image | Kim-Jong-Rodman | 3/3/2013 | http://politicalhumor.about.com/od/politicalcartoons/ig/Political-Cartoons/Kim-Jong-Rodman.htm | Kim-Jong-Uns threats of nuking the United States are taken about as seriously as Dennis Rodman himself. |
| International Relations | Arab Spring in Egypt | Image | Egypt Revolution | 2/20/2013 | http://0.tqn.com/d/politicalhumor/1/0/3/x/3/Egypt-Revolution.jpg | The Egyptian revolution demonstrates that uprisings do not always end solidly in democracy |
| International Relations | Democracy Promotion | Article | Dead Iraqi Would Have Loved Democracy | 3/26/2003 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/dead-iraqi-would-have-loved-democracy,1421/ | The irony of civilian casualities as a result of democracy promotion efforts. |
| Political Theory | Marxism | Article | Marxists' Apartment A Microcosm Of Why Marxism Doesn't Work | 11/13/2002 | http://www.theonion.com/articles/marxists-apartment-a-microcosm-of-why-marxism-does,1382/ | College students run into problems implementing Marxism in their apartment |
| American Politics | Media Bias | Article | Rupert Murdoch Admits FOX News Began as Political Satire | 11/28/2014 | http://glossynews.com/top-stories/politicos-and-polticians/201411280331/rupert-murdoch-admits-fox-news-began-as-political-satire/#more-46600 | Murdoch confesses that FOX News was originally intended to satirize conservative ideology. |
| International Relations | Terrorism and Censorship | Image | Charlie Hebdo Cover | 1/12/2015 | http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/comic-riffs/wp/2015/01/12/charlie-hebdo-reveals-next-cover-a-cartoon-of-prophet-muhammad-behind-the-sign-je-suis-charlie/ | Cover of the "survivor's" edition of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, published one week after a terrorist attack on the magazine. |
| American Politics | Police Mistrust | Article | Amish NYPD Cop Tickeled at Chance to Shun Mayor | 1/10/2015 | http://thesatirist.com/news/Amish_NYPD_Officer_Shuns_Mayor.html | Pacifist Amish-heritage policeman pleased to turn his back on someone as NYPD protest lack of support from the Mayor. |