Week 1

Humor

A broad term representing anything perceived as funny, involving mental processes of creation and perception, and emotional responses expressed through laughter.

Social Phenomenon

Humor is fundamentally a social activity characterized by playful incongruity and the positive response of mirth.

Incongruity

The perception and appraisal of unexpected elements in a non-serious mindset that triggers laughter.

Laughter

A concrete behavior that expresses enjoyment of humor and is a fundamental human experience.

Universal Experience

Humor occurs in nearly every person, in various interpersonal relationships, and across all cultures.

Inborn Response

Laughter is a natural human vocalization that occurs even in children who are deaf and blind.

Pervasive Emotion

Laughter is displayed more frequently than any other emotion, averaging 15-20 times a day.

Brain Circuit

Evidence suggests there is a specialized brain circuit for processing humor and laughter.

Etymology of Humor

The term "humor" has evolved from ancient concepts of bodily fluids to its modern meaning related to amusement.

Philosophical Roots

Influential thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and Freud have explored humor and laughter long before empirical studies.

Plato's View

He viewed humor negatively, fearing it would corrupt youth and disrupt societal order.

Aristotle's Contribution

He recognized that unexpected events trigger laughter and was more favorable towards humor than Plato.

Hobbes' Theory

Laughter is linked to feelings of superiority over others, reflecting a struggle for power.

Social Standards

Historical views on laughter were often derisive, influenced by societal norms of the time.

Kant's Perspective

Laughter arises from the sudden transformation of expectations, highlighting the psychological aspect of humor.

Schopenhauer's Theory

Laughter results from the mismatch between physical perception and abstract representation.

Nietzsche's Insight

Humor serves as a coping mechanism for existential loneliness, allowing individuals to assert power over difficulties.

Freud's Analysis

Laughter is a release of tension and a way to express repressed thoughts through humor.

Bergson's Contribution

Laughter is inherently social, requiring a human context to retain its meaning and significance.