Political Cartoon Analysis

By Peter Kuper
The New Yorker
November 14, 2018
https://www.newyorker.com/cartoons/daily-cartoon/wednesday-november-14th-climate-change-denial

Upon first glance the viewer of this political cartoon sees images depicting the earth in different colors and styles. Reading from top to bottom and left to right the captions correspond to the increasing chaos and destruction made clear in the cartoon through the use of dramatic colors and lines. The artists different depictions of the earth represent the fast changing state of our planet due to the existence and popular denial of climate change. In addition to the artist’s use of bold colors and texture, the cartoon overall consists of simplistic images sketched with a gradual increase in line harshness and overall exaggeration. In doing so, the author instills a sense of calm in the reader only to later destroy this premature relaxation with the harsh realities of climate change. The captions and headlines are crucial elements to the effect that this cartoon has on its viewers. By stating that the contents of the sketches reflect the “Four Stages of Climate Change Denial” the images’ gradual increase in intensity create the perfect environment for the political satire so clearly expressed. By creating this satire surrounding those who deny the existence of climate change the artist communicates (assumingely) his own negative opinions concerning such people and, in doing so, inherently effects the reader’s opinion. By mocking common counter arguments associated with the issue of climate change and its existence, the reader is inclined to either question their own beliefs or alter them all together.  While prior knowledge concerning the hot button issue of climate change and the stigma surrounding both it and its opposers is required to understand the message of the cartoon, the clear satirical overtones will most likely inspire the viewer to inquire about the issue as a whole. Upon further research and realization of the controversial nature of the topic discussed, the position of the artist and, in turn, the message of the cartoon is revealed to such a viewer. This message, consequently, is one of concern regarding the dangers of denial present when discussing environmental issues that ultimately affect an entire population.