“Disgrace to the Knesset: On Garbage Pail Kids, Caricature and Political Satire in Israel,” Israeli Journal of Humor Research: An International  Journal 12/2 (September 2024): 60–108.

Abstract: Originally produced by Topps Chewing Gum, Inc. (Brooklyn, New York), a localized version of Garbage Pail Kids sticker cards was distributed in Israel between 1987 and 1988. Although intended as a children’s product, the Israeli version of Garbage Pail Kids had a significant impact on local political discourse. The Hebrew translation, “Havurat HaZevel,” became a coined term frequently used by publicists and Israeli parliament members to describe the ultimate ‘other’—be it a movement, group, party, or a faction within the coalition or opposition. Choosing ‘Havurat HaZevel,’ as a model for political satire, the artists aimed to express their aversion to what they perceived as wrong, loathsome, and shameful. This paper highlights how the use of “Havurat HaZevel,” in the Israeli political arena has led to several spin-offs. The emergence of these creative initiatives over the past three decades reflects political conditions, particularly related to Knesset and Prime Minister elections, as well as expressions of political dissent and protest. Analyzing both the visual and textual elements employed by illustrators and art directors reveals insights into the public image of Israeli politicians and the political events depicted. 

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