| The previous cartoon makes certain assumptions
about you. Among these are: |
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It assumes that you are visually perceptive and literate.
Did you notice the barrel of the gun was a cigarette?
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It assumes you understand the phrase, "smoking gun." This
is a term used to suggest the presence of irrefutable evidence that ties
someone or something to a crime.
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It assumes that you are aware of contemporary issues, particularly
the investigation of tobacco companies. The R.J. Reynolds Company is one
of the largest tobacco companies in the United States. At the center of
the controversy are allegations concerning tobacco companies trying to
"hook" a new generation of smokers by appealing to teenagers who are legally
underage to smoke. The tobacco companies have vehemently denied this allegation.
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It assumes that you would know the "R.J.Reynolds Records"
provide documentary evidence of a campaign by RJR to attract underage smokers
with the Joe Camel ads, etc. Finally, it would assume that you could put
it all together and recognize that the records provide the irrefutable
evidence needed to prosecute R.J. Reynolds. Thus, they are "the smoking
gun." Included in this is a subtle pun since cigarettes are "smoked" and
the gun is seen to be "smoking."
|
| The cartoon does
try to sway your opinion to condemn, convict, R.J. Reynolds. |
