Browsing Tag
Humor
24 posts
The Allure—and Danger—of Comedy Roasts
Deprecating humor is satisfying because it helps make people feel superior, but it can also help produce a social environment more accepting of intolerance.
The Long History of Satire in the Middle East
Contrary to a recent popular claim, Muslims—of course—believe in the freedom of expression. And they’ve been using it to some extraordinary ends.
Aziz Ansari vs. Rupert Murdoch: More Than Just Humor
Anziz Ansari's lengthy criticism of Rupert Murdoch over Twitter supplies more than laughs, research shows.
Darkness Laughable: The Comic Genius of Cormac McCarthy
As one of our greatest living writers has his work lifted into the ivory tower, let’s reflect on how it’s the light, not the darkness, that keeps us going back for more.
A Social Scientist’s Plea for Humor
A new paper provides an epic theoretical defense of humor in sociological research.
The Secret of Comedy Really Is Timing
New research suggests we do find humor in tragedy, but only during a specific, limited window of time.
Are Politicians Getting Funnier? Or Just Relaxing?
Australian PM Julia Gillard’s formal address today announcing the end of the world (“Whether the final blow comes…
Kidding Yourself Is No Laughing Matter
New research finds people who deny their darker impulses laugh less frequently.
A Scientist and Ewe Walk Into a Bar …
It's no joke: Researchers give Viagra to pregnant sheep and find that the drug boosts vital nutrients needed for fetal development.