A Nostalgic Look at the “Golden Rule” Through Comics and Politics
In the realm of cartoons, borrowing ideas can sometimes tread the line of inspiration and appropriation. While many cartoonists might apologize for using iconic themes like the classic “Lucy and the football” gag from Peanuts, there are lesser-known gems that also deserve acknowledgment.
One such example hails from the 1960s comic strip “The Wizard of Id,” crafted by Brant Parker and Johnny Hart. Among its memorable moments is a scene where a king addresses his subjects, urging them to adhere to the “golden rule.”
The punchline unfolds as a peasant questions, “What the heck is the golden rule?” only to receive the biting reply, “Whoever has the gold makes the rules.”
This humorous yet poignant commentary found echoes recently when President Donald Trump addressed a crowd in Michigan. During his speech, he declared, “Ladies and gentlemen of Michigan, the golden age of America is upon us!”
For many, this statement seemed reminiscent of the comic’s satirical take on power and prosperity, leaving some citizens pondering if this supposed “golden age” aligns with their own experiences. The sentiment seemed to parallel the comic’s core message: the disparity between those in power and the everyday citizen.
Editor’s note: John Auchter is a freelance political cartoonist. His views are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of Michigan Public, its management, or its license holder, the University of Michigan.
—
Read More Michigan News
