Mimicking Media: Funny Means To Achieve Serious End

Abstract

Although a literary term used primarily to ridicule somebody or some issue Satire has been used very effectively by the satirical media in Pakistan through various late night T.V talk shows. This article examines the role being played by T.V talk shows amalgamated with satire, irony or caricature to either develop the perception of the people or get them familiarized with on going socio-political, socio-economic and educational issues/happenings in Pakistan. The qualitative study was conducted, through focused group interview, on 100 University students. The subjects apparently appear to be appropriate sample because they represent a majority that remains unmoved because of monotony in various talk shows but is capable of steering socio-economic, educational and democracy boat in the right direction if attracted properly to un-talked issues in the country. In the light of the findings of the study it is concluded that such monotony takes the general masses, especially youth, away from ongoing debatable issues of Pakistan but the mimicking media has brought the same general masses and youth back to feel concerned about such issues to form their opinions. Further, the subjects suggest that free media in Pakistan is at growing stage and socio-economic, socio-political or educational, etc., issues may not be discussed bitterly but in a light tone and manner to educate people rather to irritate. Hence, mimicking media could be a very positive effort by T.V channels to educate people of Pakistan where much is to be done in social sector so that they may contribute effectively to make Pakistan socially, economically, educationally and politically a stable and progressive country.

TV Talk Shows in Pakistan: Politically Engaged or Politically Skeptic?

“…The economy, politics, and popular perception of comedy are said to be influenced. Nadeem et al (2012) argued that numerous television talk shows impact a huge community with fun and light parodies. Zooren et al (2009) talk about comedy talk shows and political types of performers.…”