Comedy of Error: why evolution made us laugh

The desire to laugh is universal, but why do we find some gags hilarious and others fall flat? Professor Jonathan Silvertown investigates why we laugh in his book "The Comedy of Error," exploring the evolutionary origins of laughter, similarities and differences in humor across cultures, and the benefits of being funny.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Scribe Publications

Humour is a universal human phenomenon that involves the expression of amusement or amusement through laughter. It serves as a means of communication, social bonding, and stress relief. Laughter can be triggered by a wide range of factors, including jokes, puns, sarcasm, irony, and unexpected situations.

The root of a good joke is often attributed to error, as it involves a misperception, misinterpretation, or miscommunication. This misstep creates a discrepancy between what is expected and what actually occurs, resulting in a humorous outcome. The ability to exploit errors for comedic effect is a hallmark of skilled comedians and humorists.

One of the reasons why we find some gags hilarious is because they tap into our shared human experiences and cultural references. Jokes that are relatable and familiar tend to resonate with us more strongly, causing us to laugh out loud. For example, jokes about family, relationships, work, or everyday observations can strike a chord with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Explaining a joke can actually diminish its amusement rather than enhance it. This is because the act of explaining takes away the element of surprise and anticipation that is essential for laughter. When we know the punchline or the setup, we lose the sense of discovery and the unexpectedness that triggers laughter.

Laughter is contagious because it is a social behavior that is influenced by the people around us. When we see others laughing, we are often motivated to join in, as laughter is often seen as a sign of approval and acceptance. This contagious nature of laughter can create a positive social atmosphere and promote bonding among individuals.

The evolution of laughter is a complex topic that has been studied by researchers and psychologists for centuries. Laughter is believed to have evolved as a response to certain survival advantages. For example, laughter may have evolved as a way to signal danger or threat, as it can disorient and distract predators. Laughter may also have evolved as a way to relieve stress and promote social bonding, as it can create a sense of relaxation and well-being.

Understanding how humour works can provide endless entertainment and enjoyment. It can help us to better communicate with others, reduce stress, and enhance our social interactions. By exploring the roots of humour, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the comedic arts and the power of laughter to bring joy and happiness into our lives.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 157 x 364 x 2 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913348182