The Misogyny and Authoritarianism of ‘Paw Patrol’
The characters may look cute and cuddly, but the popular cartoon sends a subtly sinister message
Take a moment to consider what your kids are watching and how it will impact their future perception of authority, gender, and society.
If you’re a parent with young children you’re likely familiar with the cartoon Paw Patrol. The show is broadcast in 160 countries and rakes in $300 million in toy sales each year. For those lucky few who haven’t been exposed to Paw Patrol, here is a quick primer: A boy named Ryder and his team of search and rescue dogs (each with its own Village People-style theme and rescue vehicle) save the hapless residents of Adventure Bay on a daily basis.
On the surface, Paw Patrol seems like harmless fun. However, the themes presented to the impressionable audience depict a misogynistic, conservative authoritarian fantasy.
The cartoon presents a world where it is common practice for police to track people with surveillance drones. Its depiction of gender dismisses women’s position in the workplace and government. Finally, it builds a world where there are no social services, leaving citizens at the mercy of a private entity. In short, it is everything Trump’s Republican Party is pushing on the United…
