Cartoons reflect social reality

An official media outlet has published a cartoon of President Xi Jinping for the first time, giving graphic details of his engagements over the past months. Cartoons can make politicians more people-friendly, says an article in Beijing News. Excerpts:

Cartoons can leave a deep impression about a character in the minds of readers. Presidential campaign teams in countries like the US, Canada and Japan have a tradition of crafting products in the shape of politicians' caricatures.

Caricatures of politicians have become part of pop culture in many countries, with their purposes ranging from propaganda to commercial use. Cartoons and caricatures can be used to criticize or ridicule political leaders, too. Besides, they can also help politicians introduce their political platform and views.

The trend of using cartoons and caricatures has now extended even to countries where traditionally people preferred to see elegant images of their top leaders. For example, in the Republic of Korea, where people were not that interested in cartoons and caricatures, an exhibition of cartoons, including those of President Park Geun-hye, was organized at the end of 2012.

Cartoons and caricatures can bring politicians closer to the people and demonstrate the spirit of an inclusive and lively political climate, which is conducive to social progress.

The opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.