A panel of scholars, entertainment journalists and people who have worked in comedy explore the social and cultural implications of half-hour scripted television comedies. Panelists discuss: the relationship between economic cycles and the demand for humor and comedies; comedies as a reflection of our society's anxieties, fears, and hopes; and comedies as political satire. The panel is moderated by Howard Rosenberg, Pulitzer Prize winning former television critic for the Los Angeles Times. (#24203)