The article critiques the reaction to Federico Palmaroli's satirical cartoons related to the Italian referendum on the union of criminal lawyers. Palmaroli, known by his artistic name Osho, creates humorous illustrations advocating for a 'Yes' vote, which are displayed on social media and public transport across Italy. The cartoons, however, have sparked backlash from various intellectuals, who see them as politically biased or propagandistic in nature, particularly taking issue with the content and style of the artwork.

The response from the media has been sharply divided, with outlets such as Il Fatto Quotidiano labeling the cartoons as 'propaganda' that lacks depth, calling out their generic nature and denouncing the comparisons made in the imagery. The critique illustrates a broader societal tension over political expression and the line between satire and propaganda, particularly in a contentious context such as a referendum which touches upon significant legal reforms in Italy.

This debate not only highlights the challenges faced by artists and satirists in the current political landscape but also raises questions about the role of media in shaping public perception. The divide in reactions to Palmaroli's work underscores how deeply polarized Italian politics are, especially regarding issues of judicial reform and the perception of favor or opposition based on political affiliations. As the referendum approaches, the implications of such satire on public opinion and voter behavior remain to be seen.