Not really, just remember what made the news at the time of the episode you want to see. 2000? Y2K. Anywhere in the 90s? Gulf War. I personally don't think that The Simpsons have gotten worse, but more that most people have grown out of the period that requested the humor they provide, myself included. I can see myself returning to it when I have kids of my own, as it's one of the few comedy shows that I can imagine both children and adults enjoying.