Is there an American equivalent to Charlie Hebdo? I can't think of one. In England, Private Eye is probably the closest. And in both countries there's been a tradition of scurrilous takedowns of authorities and institutions for centuries (think some of the 18th century Georgian cartoons). Did that not take root here? And if not, why? A side effect of a (nominally) classless society?
When I was living in France, I always cherished the irreverence of Charlie Hebdo. The French media have pledged that they'll do whatever it takes to make sure it keeps publishing. Good for them.
Fear of offending cripples freedom of thought and expression in the US. Every single thing offends so the press becomes a closed loop lap dog. I think Thomas Paine would be way too offensive today to find room at a newspaper.
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Is there an American equivalent to Charlie Hebdo? I can't think of one. In England, Private Eye is probably the closest. And in both countries there's been a tradition of scurrilous takedowns of authorities and institutions for centuries (think some of the 18th century Georgian cartoons). Did that not take root here? And if not, why? A side effect of a (nominally) classless society?
When I was living in France, I always cherished the irreverence of Charlie Hebdo. The French media have pledged that they'll do whatever it takes to make sure it keeps publishing. Good for them.
Je suis Charlie....
Fear of offending cripples freedom of thought and expression in the US. Every single thing offends so the press becomes a closed loop lap dog. I think Thomas Paine would be way too offensive today to find room at a newspaper.
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