Debolina Maity

Research

Title of research:

Cartooning Democracy: Humour, Power & Freedom to Offend

Brief overview of research topic:

My research looks at how Political Cartoons use humour to show power and keep democracy alive. By studying cartoons from India, I explore how jokes and satire are not just meant to criticise leaders but to make people think, reflect, and care about democratic values. Using ideas from politics, art, and communication, my work shows how laughter can be a gentle but powerful way to question authority and remind political leaders of their responsibilities. In this way, humour becomes a creative force that helps sustain democracy and keep public discussion vibrant.

Qualifications

MPhil in International Relations, Jadavpur University
MA in Political Science, Presidency University
BA in Political Science, Presidency University

Teaching

Political Analysis - POL00014C

Publications

• Maity, D. (2022–2023) ‘Visualizing Politics: A Qualitative Exploration of Political Cartoon’s Relevance Today’, The West Bengal Political Science Review, Vol. XXIV, pp. 108–138. ISSN 2230-8296.

Conference Presentations

• Maity, D. (2025) Ink and Irony: Can the Freedom to Offend in Political Cartoons Be a Form of Resistance? Paper presented at the BISA–ISA Joint International Conference, Newcastle, June 2025