Hailed as "...an intelligent (and entertaining) read for Simpsons fans of all ages" by Writing! Magazine, The Simpsons and Society explores the world of Springfield as it relates to contemporary American society. The book, which is required reading for classes at several universities, including Tufts University and Carnegie Mellon University, analyzes The Simpsons television series in ways never before addressed in other Simpsons books. The Simpsons and Society provides englightening and informative discussions of the central themes of the show, and explains why The Simpsons is of tremendous importance: Why was Homer Simpson recently ranked the "greatest American of all time" in a BBC poll? Is Bart Simpson truly America's "bad boy"? In what ways does Homer represent the industrialized employee? How does The Simpsons mock celebrity culture? What is the cultural significance of Marge Simpson's hair? What would Immanuel Kant say about Homer's approach to parenting? Why is The Simpsons more than "just a cartoon"? Also included are essays pertaining to medical malpractice (Dr. Nick), media culture, American Exceptionalism, how The Simpsons matches up against other TV sitcoms, Simpsonian politics, Descartes' Evil Genius argument, Simpsonian education, and more. Each essay relates some aspect of American culture to Simpsonian life.
As the Associated Press recently noted: "The Simpsons and Society takes on the big topics with a tone that's alternately serious and slapstick... Keslowitz fixes a serious eye on America's favorite dysfunctional cartoon crew, looking for deeper meaning in the antics of Krusty the Clown, Chief Wiggum, and the rest of the twisted townfolk. He actually finds some, too."
Full of quotes, jokes, insight, analysis, and a special quiz that is intended to help you find your "inner Homer", this book is for every Simpsons fan! As Homer would say ... mmm ... bookalicious.
