Polite Dissent

I’ve head many times that most comics of the 1950s and ’60s were targeted at twelve year-old boys, and with most of the stories I’ve read, that doesn’t seem far from the truth.

However, if that’s the case, then why do so many of the public service ads focus on an older audience? Did they really think a twelve year-old cared that much about laws? Or were they assuming that twelve year-old boys would remember this PSA four year in the future? (Or maybe they were hoping that one of Dr. Wertham’s delinquents would pick up the comic, read the PSA, and veer away from his life of crime. Personally, that’s the answer I’m going with).

Hauled before the judge that same day they were caught? And no lawyer or parent in sight. I’m hoping this is one of those “Scared Straight” things and not a huge violation of due process (which would be ironic, coming from a judge who’s lecturing them about the law).

This PSA appeared in various DC comics from March 1958. Jack Schiff, as always, did the script. The art this time was by Bob Brown, who only seemed to collaborate on a few other PSAs — which is a shame, because he brings more lively action in this PSA than in any other PSA I can remember. Check out panels 3, 4, and 5 — his art ads so much the story. It’s a pity more PSAs weren’t this animated.

More PSAs

Tags: comics psa law joyriding jack schiff bob brown