The Simpsons as a Critique of Consumer Culture

he Simpsons, since its creation in the late eighties, has always been a critique of American ideologies and mainstream culture. One would think that a show that makes fun of the people who are watching it would not air on prime time television, nor receive high ratings and popularity, but Sam Tingleff explains how Matt Groening, the creator, made it possible. The narrative itself does not openly criticize American culture or values, it follows a plot that portrays middle class lifestyles and myths, which allows the viewer to see, in a humorous way, the irony or hypocrisy within the dominant culture they live in. Issues of democracy, education, capitalism, and inequality are a few of the topics of critique that are depicted through character interaction or particular situations. For example, Marge is treated unfairly by her husband and children in every show, which stands to represent "American society's dismissal of women," but in an indirect and thought provoking way. This example also illustrates how the characters in The Simpsons are representations of American ideologies/roles, rather than full personalities, which is depicted as conflict of dominant ideas. The combination of underlying cultural critiques within the narratives and the portrayal of ideological characters directs the viewers to question, again and again, the dominant values and culture that is being portrayed.

The witty way in which Groening puts together The Simpson shows, clearly speaks to the American people, or else it would not be as popular as it is. The plot of one episode illustrates Homer quitting his horrible job and getting one that he loves for less money, but when times get tough and more money is needed he must go back to the old job. Many people in our society have obviously experienced this situation and many other situations The Simpsons depict, such as social inequality. Tingleff's description of the purpose of Marge's character reminded me of Beauvoir's, The Second Sex. Together the two texts state that the injustices and stereotypes against women still stand today. Through one's experienced knowledge, aka the dominant culture, they are able to understand the critiques that Groening is trying to illustrate.

I do not think The Simpsons has been defined as a controversial show, even though it criticizes everything about the American culture, including its Democratic foundation, because everyone has struggled with the pressures of the dominant culture. Whether it is conforming to a particular gender identity or trying to gain economic status, the American people have fallen victim to their own constructs. I believe The Simpsons is so well liked because it provides comic relief that allows the viewer to escape from reality, while also questioning the oppressive qualities inherent in our culture.

Questions:
1. Does it mean anything that The Simpsons is aired on FOX, one of the most right-wing television networks in media?
2. Do you think that Groening meant to generate a movement with his creation of The Simpsons?
3. After almost 20 years of The Simpsons airing on prime time television, what noticeable impacts, if any, has it had on the American society or American individual?