Should the Flintstones Cartoons Be Banned on Account of Animal Cruelty?

Question

On every episode of the Flintstones, we see Fred, Wilma, Barney, and Betty served by enslaved animals who are cruelly treated. At Fred’s place of employment, the end-of-day whistle is a bird, who makes a noise when someone pulls hard on his tail. There is an elephant whose trunk is used as a garden hose. The trash can is a pelican, who is forced to eat garbage as people pass by. A live rabbit’s ears are used as a television antenna. What sort of example is this setting for our children?

Update:

I forgot to mention, in one scene, Wilma is opening a can by using a bird's beak as a can opener.

JSG · Accepted Answer

No. It's a cartoon. No animals were harmed in the making of the cartoon. The cartoons never inspired youngsters to try to emulate the things they saw people doing to animals in them.

Kids from the '60s to the '90s had enough sense NOT to do that. They never had to include the "Kids, don't try this at home" disclaimer in any form or fashion in their cartoons.

If I remember right the animals were paid to work as appliances in the cartoons. It's a joke.

I think you are taking the cartoons way too seriously.

magix151 · Answer

Yes, for that reason and a distinct lack of diversity.

USartboy · Answer

No. It's a cartoon. Grow up.

Should the Flintstones Cartoons Be Banned on Account of Animal Cruelty?

3 Answers