Political pranks : the performance of radical humor
Loading...
Date
2000-12
Authors
Vanderford, Audrey L.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This thesis examines the performance of political pranks by contemporary
radical activists and anarchists. Pranks, used symbolically to subvert authority and
collapse hierarchy, have become important tools for grassroots political movements.
Activists utilize pranks as a form of "culture jamming" to undermine, humiliate, and educate. This thesis documents political pranks pulled by Earth First!, the Yippies, the Biotic Baking Brigade, and the Eugene Anarchists for Torrey (EAT) Campaign to show
how pranks are performed and narrated within anarchist subcultures. Drawing on
cultural and performance studies, as well as on anarchist theories, this thesis
demonstrates how pranks can become performances of resistance and criticism that
disrupt the status quo.
Description
xi, 112 p. : ill. A print copy of this title is available through the UO Libraries under the call number: KNIGHT PN6149.P64 V36 2000
Keywords
Practical jokes -- Political aspects, Political satire -- History and criticism, Anarchism -- History