Here is something interesting.
Socionomics.net posted a two part article about national mood, measured in Dow Jones “bull” and “bear” markets, being reflected in the content of cartoons. In a nutshell, when the markets are up, cartoon content is more positive. When markets are down, content becomes more serious and cynical. Here are some of the graphics
The articles are not difficult reading, and offer some interesting perspective on animation history. And it makes sense. When life is good, people do not want to question it, they want to enjoy it. When life is difficult, people like to see stories about others in difficult situations, because they can relate to it.
Here are the links: PART 1 and PART 2
I particularly like this graphic, although I’m not sure I agree with the “art” category.
Dontcha love it when take a premise that makes sense (cartoons reflect the national mood) and then apply it to something completely different (Dow Jones). Shoehorning the concepts together shows a lack of understanding about both cartoons and what Dow Jones represents.
I hear what you’re saying.
I wonder if calculating the state of the economy would be a way to create content to match the situation. Comedy thrives on current events. “Beach Blanket Babylon” in SF is all about lampooning celebrities and hot topics.