Science and the Satirists

Friday 20th Mar 2026, 9.45am

“As we scroll, somewhat aimlessly, through our social media feeds, it seems reasonable to think that we are in the grips of a very modern obsession…”

Whatever the situation – an election, sporting event, even a global pandemic – you need only open an app to hear other people’s opinions, or view a related meme.

However, as cultural historian Dr Kate Watson explains, we are certainly not the first generation to enjoy social commentary through images with satirical remarks. Introducing, the caricatures of Georgian Britain.