This Is A Continuation Of Your Proposal
This Is A Continuation Of Your Proposalnew Times Roman 12pt Fontm
This is a continuation of your proposal. New Times Roman 12 pt Font. MLA Format. 4-6 pages. Note: This is just a guide for those of you who are stumped. This does not mean that this is the right way to do it. There are different other ways and each of them is very effective. Do not think that your argument paper, if you have started it, is incorrect if it does not adhere to this guide. If you want confirmation, please contact me before scrapping your work.
Step 1: Introduction · Establish a reader’s interest and willingness to listen. Do not write out rhetorical questions. There is no use to have them in a paper. · Establish your qualifications for writing this paper. Talk about research and study here. · Since this is an argumentative topic, you need to make sure you establish some common ground. Try and connect with them in some way. Show them that you’re fair and even-handed. · And THEN state your thesis or claim.
Step 2: Background / Personal Story · This is where you can do one of two things: 1.) spend a paragraph giving a personal story that pertains to your argument or 2.) give a little background information on what has been said about the subject.
Step 3: Lines of Argument · This is your body. You need to make sure that you give your arguments here. Emotional, Logical, and Ethical appeals need to be present. · Make sure that your strongest claim is the last one present here. · This should fill the most of your paper.
Step 4: Alternative Points of View · examine alternative points of view and opposing arguments · talk about how they would work and how they wouldn’t work · then explain why your point of view is better
Step 5: Conclusion (You made it…maybe) · Summarize the argument · Elaborate on the implications of your claim, meaning what will happen if they listen to you? · Make it very clear what you want the audience to think or do · Reinforce your credibility and maybe, just maybe add in one more emotional appeal.
Analysis of satire through “The Real Time with Bill Maher”: A television case study
Satire is a form of art that highlights deficiencies in social behaviors and issues within communities through absurd and humorous entertainment, aiming to influence social change. It employs critique, irony, and implicit messaging to convey critical points that resonate with citizens, instigating awareness and potential behavioral shifts. Historically, satire has evolved alongside major political events, with satirists serving as commentators and critics who reveal societal flaws (Reimann, 2016).
Satire typically targets political leaders abusing power, social problems, flawed customs, and citizen shortcomings (LaMarre et al., 2009). Its roots trace back to ancient Greece, notably Aristophanes who criticized societal standards through comedy. The genre was further developed in Roman literature, where poets like Juvenal used sharp mockery to critique society. Latin 'satura' encompassed the genre, which spread across Europe and matured through the Middle Ages and Renaissance (Island, n.d).
In modern times, satire leverages performing arts, literature, and media to ridicule authority figures and societal vices. Its purpose is not merely entertainment but also social critique designed to shame and motivate reform. Comedy shows like “The Real Time with Bill Maher” exemplify contemporary political satire, blending humor with commentary to engage audiences and provoke reflection on current issues.
Bill Maher, a comedian and social commentator, employs satire by framing political debates within humorous formats, often inviting liberal and conservative guests to highlight differing perspectives. His show uses comedy to disarm audiences, making controversial or uncomfortable topics more accessible (Jones, 2018). Maher’s use of 'blue language' and provocative statements serves to underscore his liberal stance and provoke discussion, exemplified by quotes such as “Bad Presidents Happen to Good People” (Jones, 2018).
Maher’s long-standing experience on political platforms gives him a critical edge in satirizing power structures. His approach often involves emphasizing the absurdity of political figures and policies, such as when he parodies the concept of walls—implying barriers to social progress and human coexistence. Through satire, Maher aims to challenge illusions of certainty in politics, fostering a more skeptical and engaged citizenry (Ferré-Pavia et al., 2016).
The audience’s reception of satirical messages depends heavily on the presentation style and the relevance of topics. While some critics argue that satire exacerbates political divides, others believe it serves as a vital tool for fostering political awareness and encouraging civic participation. In the U.S., satire has become central to political discourse, shaping public perceptions and holding leaders accountable (Swayne, 2018).
Beyond U.S. borders, satire faces restrictions due to political repression and societal instability. In Middle Eastern countries like Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, satirists operate under risk of violence or censorship. For instance, Syrian cartoonist Ali Farzat was assaulted after mocking Bashar al-Assad, highlighting the peril of satirical expression in authoritarian regimes (Salamandra, 2011). Similarly, in Jordan, government restrictions limit satirical criticism, with outlets like Roya TV censoring or banning shows that challenge political authority (Ahmed, 2013).
Despite these constraints, satirists in oppressive regimes attempt indirect criticism through subtle humor, allegories, and allegorical cartoons. Such methods serve as survival strategies to circumvent censorship but often limit the scope of satire. In contrast, democratic societies like the U.S. afford freedom of speech, allowing satire to thrive as a form of political engagement and social critique.
In conclusion, satire, as exemplified by “The Real Time with Bill Maher,” remains a potent instrument for political and social commentary. Its ability to blend humor with critique facilitates public engagement and promotes awareness of societal flaws. While the effectiveness of satire varies depending on cultural context and audience perception, its role in fostering critical thinking and accountability is well established. As democracies evolve, the space for satire to challenge power and inspire change becomes increasingly vital for healthy political discourse.
References
- Ahmed, A. S. (2013). Postmodernism and Islam: Predicament and promise. Routledge.
- Ferré-Pavia, C., Sintes, M., & Gayà , C. (2016). The perceived effects of televised political satire among viewers and the communication directors of political parties: A European case. European Journal of Cultural Studies, 19(4), 299–317.
- Island, L. (n.d). Satire: its style, types and devices. Retrieved November 25, 2018, from May 31, 2010.
- Jones, J. (2018). Analyzing political comedy: A case study of Maher’s commentary. Unpublished manuscript.
- Salamandra, C. (2011). Spotlight on the Bashār al-Asad era: The television drama outpouring. Middle East Critique, 20(2).
- Reimann, M. (2016). A brief history of satire. Retrieved January 26, 2016.
- Swayne, M. (2018). Satire is shaping the next generation of American citizens. Journal of Media Studies.
- LaMarre, H. L., Landreville, K. D., & Beam, M. A. (2009). The irony of satire: Political ideology and the motivation to see what you want to see in The Colbert Report. International Journal of Press/Politics, 14(2), 212–228.
- Bill Maher, Real Time with Bill Maher. (2018). HBO. Various episodes.