For Leslie Knope, the world of politics is a bright place. Her optimism about the world is charming, something the rest of us need to learn. This is just one of the many reasons Greg Daniels and Mike Schur’s “Parks and Recreation” is superior to their first show, “The Office”.

Overall, the characters in “Parks and Rec” are better than “The Office”.

Leslie Knope, the lead, is a bright ray of liberal sunshine whereas Michael Scott, her foil, is shallow, narcissistic and rude. Leslie’s actions are genuine in her want to help others–not only her loved ones, but also the complete strangers who live in the small town of Pawnee.

It’s also inevitable that characters are added into a show to keep it interesting and current. The additions in the later seasons of “The Office” are useless and forgettable such as Gabe Lewis and Nellie Bertram.

“Parks and Rec” became arguably better with the addition of the two main characters, Chris Treiger (Rob Lowe) and Ben Wyatt (Adam Scott).

“The Office’s” viewership was never consistent; the highs and lows were opposite ends of the spectrum. “Parks and Rec” has much more reliable viewership, consistently around 3 to 4 million viewers tuning in per episode.

The comedy of “Parks and Rec” definitely tops that of “The Office”. Instead of having to rely on cringey toilet humor, “Parks and Rec” utilizes slapstick humor and makes the show more upbeat and silly rather making awkward jokes, many that aren’t funny.
Much of this is perspective depends on the person. Both shows have won similar, if not the exact same, awards on comedy such as the American Comedy Award. “Parks and Rec” has also won Golden Globes, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Emmys for best comedy television show.

Contrary to “The Office”, the only cast member to win awards is not Amy Poehler, the lead. Although Poehler, has won dozens of awards as leading lady, the rest of the cast is not to be overlooked. Aubrey Plaza, who plays April Ludgate, has won multiple awards for her character along with Nick Offerman.

“Parks and Rec” also has a fully immersive world. The town of Pawnee, Indiana isn’t just simply mentioned; there are many locations, citizens, and town events that are mentioned frequently. Hundreds of characters are introduced, including some favorites Jean-Ralphio, Li’l Sebastian (rest his soul), Joan Callamezzo, and Brandi Maxxxx. Even the snobby, next-door neighbor of Pawnee, Eagleton, is often mentioned and visited.

“Parks and Rec” is a wonderful show, highlighting the good aspects of humanity while incorporating deeper topics such as political corruption, gay marriage, and abusive relationships.