Today’s theme: The Simpsons (in time for Family Month)

With Children’s Day and Parent’s Day, Teachers Day, as well as Buddha’s Birthday, the month of May is full of holidays, and is largely considered to be a Family Month. In celebration, we look into The Simpsons, known here in Korea as 심슨가족, or The Simpsons Family. The series is a satirical depiction of working-class life, epitomized by the Simpson family, which consists of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. The show is set in the fictional town of Springfield and parodies American culture and society, television, and the human condition. With expert guests, we look into why the series has attracted so many fans all around the world and has been able to continue on for 29 seasons.

The Conversationalist

with

Professor David Schweingruber

- from Department of Sociology at Iowa State University

“Watching the Simpsons every week from its premier in 1989 sounds like a real commitment. What made you such a huge fan of the show?

Your research seems focus on subjects like gender, family and religion, all of which the show touches on. As a sociology professor, do you feel like The Simpsons can also be used as teaching material?”

&

Professor Thomas Gold

- Department of Sociology at UC Berkeley who taught seminars on “’’The Simpsons’’ Global Mirror”

“The Simpsons shows the family as part of a larger community, showing lives of foreigners and illegal immigrants. How do you think the show touches on the subject of globalization?

The show was swept in controversy for its depiction of the Indian character Apu. Can you tell us what the controversy was about?

The show also offended other countries like Brazil and Australia for its satirical depiction. What’s your personal take on this?”

Media Monster

The Simpsons Albums

Next week: Online Privacy