Dear Colleagues, I hardly ever ever reply to the conversation on this list, but I really want to in this case. When I first saw the Onion parody (on another list, incidentally), I thought it was great. In fact, I copied it to include in my reading packet for my "Theory and Literature" class which introduces all of the film and video critical methods of textual and cultural analysis to new grad students. Seriously, we have to be able to laugh at our own work. In fact, like most really good parodies, this one had such a grain of truth that it was exceptionally insightful into how any part of our culture can be analyzed. One of the first tasks I give to my new graduate media students is the semiotic (or structural) analysis of some cultural space such as the UT campus, a shopping mall, a local grocery store (Central Market--which attracts tourists), or a movie theater. I plan to use the Onion parody to both laugh and, then, ask about how we DO interpret cultural objects--ad hoc-ly or with a thought-out critical method. Also remember that only some senior scholars claim we should be in a post-theory era. And some scholars, such as me, would argue that good historians and cultural studies scholarship can only succeed with a firm understanding of theory (and vice versa). And would consider herself a theoretician (but able to laugh at herself from time to time). Finally, thank you, Jeremy, for reminding me of how fun that article was. I think it is fully appropriate to distribute these sorts of items especially since they help us reflect on our profession. I regret that you, Louis, might have felt "mocked," but I think lots of others of us who do this sort of theory don't read this parody as vicious but playful. That's not to say that it isn't hard for you where you are teaching. Indeed, I have it easy at UT where theory is quite accepted and expected. So I am sorry Louis that this reminds you of some obviously painful experiences but I'm not sure your interpretation is that of others (likely in a better situation to enjoy the piece). I hope that you can find ways to include the theory you love in other classes that may seem less amenable to its inclusion. And, having been in the field for about 25 years, I can assure you that cycles of privileges exist. good luck, Janet ---- To sign off Screen-L, e-mail [log in to unmask] and put SIGNOFF Screen-L in the message. Problems? Contact [log in to unmask]