In China and Ohio, They Eat Dogs
In China They Eat Dogs, Lasse Spang Olsen, 1999
The film In China They Eat Dogs (I Kina Spiser De Hunde) is a Danish black comedy that explores unusual and dark situations in the lives of ordinary people who gradually enter the world of crime and violence. The film became a cult classic in Scandinavia due to its unique blend of absurd humor and philosophical dilemmas. The title of the film is not meant to be taken literally but serves as a metaphor for moral ambiguity. The film explores the idea of relativizing good and evil, raising the question: are our moral choices absolute, or do they depend on the circumstances? This theme is developed through the characters, who often make immoral decisions with “good” intentions.
“Bart to the Future”, The Simpsons, Springfield, 2000
Lisa Simpson takes over the presidential office and mentions inheriting it from Donald Trump, who caused a major economic collapse.
“Goodbacks”, South Park, 2004
In this episode, migrants from the future seek employment in the present, which sparks economic and social tensions. The phrase “They took our jobs!” became a popular meme satirizing resistance to migrants in general. While not targeting a specific group, the episode critiques xenophobia, economic fear, and social tensions.
“Coming to Homerica”, The Simpsons, Springfield, 2009
The residents of Springfield decide to build a wall to prevent the migration of people from a neighboring city, who have come due to an economic crisis. The episode is a satirical critique of migration, xenophobia, and political decisions. It seems that Trump took it literally.
“Parts Unknown”, Anthony Bourdain, 2013
In this series, Bourdain explores different cultures through their culinary traditions, including those that may seem controversial to many people. Bourdain frequently sparked public discussion about the treatment of different animal species in cuisine. He consumed local delicacies such as certain insects, blood, or animal organs, which may seem extreme to Western audiences.
Bourdain supported cultural authenticity and defended the right of communities to practice their customs. His views have polarized audiences, and he is often used as an example in discussions about ethics in food and the treatment of animals, including accusations of “exploiting animals for entertainment”.
There is no documented evidence of him eating dogs or cats.
Springfield, Ohio, 2024
In recent years, Springfield has received an increasing number of migrants, including Haitians, partly due to the demand for labor. The Haitian migrant population has reached about 15,000 people. This has caused tensions in public discourse but has also brought diversity and contributed to the local community.
Presidential Election Campaign for the USA, Donald Trump, 2024
During a debate in September 2024, Donald Trump claimed that refugees in Springfield, Ohio, eat dogs and cats, which sparked controversy and condemnation for spreading misinformation and racist stereotypes. His statements were based on unfounded claims circulating in right-wing circles. Officials in Springfield, Ohio, including the mayor and police, stated that no such incidents had been reported. Trump used this remark to highlight what he described as an alleged problem with migrants, even though the Haitians living in Springfield are mostly in the country legally under Temporary Protected Status.
Art helps us view life from a different angle, broadening our outlook and perspectives by offering alternative opinions and perspectives. Humor, irony, and satire are frequent tools used by artists. Today, these tools are losing their meaning, as reality surpasses even the wildest imaginations of a sane mind. In the past, art referred to life; today, reality draws inspiration from art. And let anyone say that art cannot change the world.
Everything is funny. Nothing is funny.
Curator and author of the text: Mia David
