Laughing at Power: How Caricature and Satirical Art Expose Politics and Dictatorship

Another key aspect of satirical art is its emotional impact. Humor engages audiences not only intellectually but also emotionally, making political critique memorable and relatable. Laughter can coexist with anger, sadness, or moral outrage, creating a complex emotional response that strengthens political awareness. When people laugh at a dictator’s exaggerated portrait, they momentarily overcome fear, experiencing a sense of psychological freedom that can be deeply empowering.