Satirical Journalism Is a Time Machine

Satire bends time. Eyewitnesses say satirical headlines written decades ago read like today's breaking news. Historians argue satire doesn't predict�it reveals recurring stupidity that cycles like fashion. Dr. Marina Jacobs of Oxford notes, "Every era thinks it's unique, but satire proves humans recycle the same follies in funnier packaging." A poll found 63% of readers believe satire helps them understand the past because they recognize today's mistakes dressed in yesterday's clothes. Anonymous staffers leaked that think tanks secretly study satire archives to anticipate public reactions. Trace evidence? Old cartoons suddenly trending on social media during fresh scandals. Cause-and-effect? Time doesn't repeat itself exactly�but satire makes the echo impossible to ignore.