Tag: Comedy

The Science of Humor: Understanding What Makes People Laugh

Humor is a universal aspect of human experience that transcends cultures and borders. It plays a crucial role in social interactions, providing a way to connect with others and navigate complex social landscapes. Despite its ubiquitous presence, the mechanisms behind humor and what makes people laugh can be surprisingly complex. This article delves into the science of humor, exploring various theories and the psychological underpinnings that contribute to our sense of amusement. From the incongruity theory to the relief theory, understanding the science of humor sheds light on why we laugh and how humor influences our lives both physically and emotionally.

Incongruity Theory

One of the foundational theories of humor is the incongruity theory. This theory posits that humor arises when there is a discrepancy between what is expected and what actually occurs. The surprise element triggers laughter as we recognize the incongruity between the setup and the punchline. For example, a classic joke often involves a setup that leads the listener to anticipate a certain outcome, only to be met with an unexpected twist that defies logic or common sense.

Incongruity not only stimulates amusement but also engages our cognitive faculties. It challenges us to reconcile conflicting ideas and nuances, promoting higher-order thinking skills. This may explain why some forms of humor, such as irony and satire, are often appreciated for their intellectual complexity, allowing us to find joy in the mental gymnastics they provoke. Research these steps on how to be funny and you’ll surely understand more about incongruity theory. It can be a valuable tool in crafting jokes and comedy routines that elicit genuine laughter from others.

Relief Theory

Relief theory offers another perspective on why we laugh. According to this theory, humor serves as a mechanism for releasing psychological tension. Sigmund Freud was a significant proponent of this idea, suggesting that jokes and comedic situations help us vent uncomfortable or suppressed emotions in a socially acceptable way. Think of laughter as a pressure valve for the mind, offering a release from stress and anxiety.

This theory can also explain why taboo topics and dark humor often elicit laughter. When a joke broaches sensitive subjects, it can provide relief from the tension surrounding the topic, allowing us to address the otherwise unmentionable in a less threatening context. As such, humor can play a healing role, offering respite and emotional recovery in challenging times.

Superiority Theory

The superiority theory posits that humor often arises from feelings of superiority over others. This theory suggests that we laugh at the misfortunes or shortcomings of others because it momentarily elevates our own status. The humor in slapstick comedy or the punchlines delivered at another’s expense often falls under this category, where the viewer or listener finds amusement in another’s blunders or misfortunes.

While this form of humor can be controversial, as it builds amusement from another’s flaws, it also serves social functions. It can be a means of subtly enforcing social norms and hierarchies, acting as a tool for social regulation. On the flip side, such humor can also be a means of bonding among friends, where teasing and jesting are signs of camaraderie rather than malice.

The Social Connection Aspect

Humor plays a significant role in social cohesion. When people laugh together, barriers break down, leading to stronger interpersonal bonds and improved communication. Shared laughs can serve as ice-breakers in new social situations, creating an instant connection between individuals. This is why humor is often utilized in group settings, from casual gatherings to professional environments, to foster a sense of unity and collaboration.

In a more intimate context, humor is crucial in romantic relationships as well, often cited as a desirable trait by many. Shared humor can contribute to the longevity and quality of relationships by aiding in conflict resolution and enhancing mutual understanding. By laughing together, partners can navigate through complex emotions and situations more comfortably, reinforcing their bond.

The Physiological Benefits of Laughter

Beyond the psychological and social impacts, laughter also offers numerous physiological benefits. It has been scientifically proven that laughter can reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Additionally, a good laugh can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, fostering an overall sense of well-being and happiness.

Laughter can contribute to cardiovascular health. The act of laughing causes an increase in heart rate followed by a period of muscle relaxation, resembling the process of physical exercise. This cardiovascular workout can improve circulation and help maintain a healthy heart. In essence, humor and laughter are not only a balm for the soul but also a tonic for the body, promoting holistic health and well-being.

The science of humor is a complex and multifaceted subject that continues to be studied and analyzed by psychologists and comedians alike. It serves as a powerful tool for social interactions, emotional regulation, and physical health. As we continue to unravel the mysteries behind what makes us laugh, let us not forget the simple joy that comes from sharing a good joke or a hearty laugh with others.

 

Why Dollface Is One Of My Favorite Binge worthy Shows

Dollface came out in 2019– and I finally checked it out. I binged through the series pretty quick, because it was so spot on and hilarious. Dollface stars Kat Dennings, from Wanda Vision and 2 Broke Girls (also co-producer), who plays Jules, a loyal girlfriend recently dumped by her boyfriend after a five year relationship. She embarks on a journey to reconnect with her friends that she left behind when she was in her relationship. If this story sounds familiar you are either that friend who ditches their pals when they are in a relationship or you have been ditched by a friend in this manner.

Jules is not the enemy here, but her role is so familiar and very binge worthy. How many times have you had conversations with your girlfriends about not losing yourself in your relationship? Countless times for most of us. What make the show even easier to digest, we get to look inside the mind of Jules, and her creative self effacing thoughts come to life for us. You never know when she is going into her mind so these moments become surprising an enjoyable.

In comes the squad

Jules longtime and lost friend Madison reenters the picture as her close type A friend. Stella is Madison’s bestie who is part hippie, part model, part business school student in the making. She is a true chic Nomad.  Izzy from work joins the quad squad as the quirky friend who’s loyalty overrides her weirdness any day. These friendships blend perfectly as Jules learns to live life without a boyfriend. Her dutiful gal pals keep her from rebound relationships and getting back together with her ex. They also challenge her on what being a true friend means. A reminder to us all that friendships take work.

The Parody

Jules is a web designer at an all girl marketing firm that parodies Goop to perfection. Woom, run by Celeste who is played by the witty Malin Akerman sets the tone that the show is for women, about women and in favor of all women.

Selfish Is Good

We talk at length in our society of men having an identity crisis. Women want the chairs pulled out for them and the doors open, but they want to be independent and self sufficient when it suits them. Which is completely true. As a woman I am constantly sending mixed messages to my partner. Women are still discovering what it means to prioritize their own desires. The level of good selfish behavior requires us to evaluate how we prioritize our friends and our relationships.

The Joke Is On Us

The show is witty and smart and full of sass. Dollface manages to empower women by making fun of them at the same time in a way that does not come off as insulting. Unless of course you believe that as women we have actually figured out what we want from our empowerment. The stereotypical jokes poke fun at both genders. And it is not afraid to go there.  The bus driver being the crazy cat lady in Jules very vivid imagination, and Margot Robbie, executive producer who brings the juice and sound bowls as Malibu Yogi Imelda, a guru with wide eyes and eccentric spiritualism, goats included.

Don’t get me wrong, the men are picked on too, but they are not the point of the show. Jeremy, the atypical ex played by Connor Hines both hurts and helps heal Jules with his actions.

Single Is Self Discovery

The show is about finding healthy relationships and striking that balance between dating and friendships. Through comedy, the show strives constantly to remind the viewer that this is Jules journey to independence and self fulfillment as a single gal. The show never promises the audience that it understands women or Jules for that matter. What it does do though, is it promotes the idea of  self discovery, female solidarity and some solid laughs. (If you can laugh at yourself that is.)

Check out Season 1 on Hulu. Binge quickly. Season 2 starts Feb 11th. Watch the Hulu trailer here.

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10 Arrested Development Moments That Made Us Love the Bluths

If you’ve watched Arrested Development, you’ve seen the too-relatable family moments from the Bluth family. From arguments to critical parents to sibling rivalry, the Bluth’s have shown us that they’re like every other family – except there’s also a dad who committed treason, a father and a son both liking the same girl without knowing it, and a surprisingly-successful banana stand.

Arrested Development is laid out like a documentary, which is shown more during the last season or so. Much like The Office, there is no laughing track and the characters are much more casual on camera.

In that sense, the show is already leaps and bounds ahead of other sitcoms, if that’s the vibe you’re going for.

The show is TV14 for some language and innuendos here and there. That being said, it’s family-friendly for teens and up – which seems hard to find with truly hilarious comedies nowadays. It’s binge-worthy, good to have on in the background, and funny in a sometimes unfortunately-relatable sense.

It makes it seem like our “crazy” family might not be so crazy after all.

The show is available to stream with Netflix and Hulu subscriptions and is available to purchase on Vudu, Amazon Prime, and other online options. Whatever the price – I’ll tell you that it’s worth it. Arrested Development is the type of show that will have you crying laughing even after a 14-time watch through.

1. George started the 6 feet apart rule before COVID-19.

2. Their dancing may just be worse than ours.

3. They remind us that dating can be messy.

4. They (sometimes) admit their faults.

5. They understand that not everyone can be a good cook.

6. They go through bad self-esteem moments, too.

7. Dramatics can get the best of them.

8. Their poor financial skills and a little too relatable.

9. They can get caught in awkward moments.

10. Their depressed moments can get the best of them.

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About The Author

Emmie Pombo is a latte and tattoo-loving Tennessean who specializes in mental health and beauty writing. She holds a degree in Journalism and a certification in Makeup Artistry and Airbrushing. Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Pete Davidson Ripped Apart A Fan For Making A Mac Miller Joke At His Show

Comedian Pete Davidson was working on some new material at the South Orange Performing Arts Center in NJ on Monday night when one of his fans tried to make a joke of rapper Mac Miller’s death. Let’s just say it did not go well for the fan.

Miller was found dead at the age of 26 on September 7 in his California home. His death was ruled an accidental overdose of fentanyl, cocaine, and alcohol, according to People.

The late Miller had dated Ariana Grande before she dated Pete Davidson, and his death seems to have played a factor in her and Davidson’s breakup, at least if you go by the lyrics to her song “Ghostin.”

So it was in really, really bad taste when, after Davidson began a joke with “My friend died in my apartment,” someone in the audience clearly yelled out “Mac Miller,” according to audio obtained by TMZ.

Right after the dude yelled it out, Davidson asked, “Jesus Christ, who’s that guy?” He then said, “We’re getting him out. Point out the guy who’s a f*ckface.” He completely stopped the set and waited for the crowd to out the guy so security could remove him, saying, “I’ll wait. I will wait. I will not continue until that guy’s gone.”

“I’ll leave, so if you want the show to continue, call out the person who did it,” he said. He also asked that the venue give the guy his money back because he didn’t want it.

“I don’t deal with that sh*t at my show,” he said, later adding, “I have to deal with that enough.”

In recent weeks, Davidson has been spotted with Kate Beckinsale, so maybe that’s a thing? People reported that the pair were together first at Netflix’s Golden Globes afterparty and then they were spotted holding hands leaving the West Hollywood, CA, venue Largo at the Coronet after Pete Davidson had done a set.

You can check out the full audio of Davidson kicking the fan out here.

h/t: People and TMZ

Nickelodeon Announces They’re Bringing Back ‘All That’ With Kenan Thompson As The Lead Producer

With many people in society trying to bring back the iconic ’90s, kids and teens who grew up during the time will be glad to hear that an epic TV show from their childhood is making a major comeback. According to Variety, the sketch comedy show All That is being brought back to Nickelodeon as part of a new venture. The company announced the big news on Twitter by sharing the link to the Variety article.

According to the network, Kenan Thompson—who was part of the original cast—will be the executive producer of the revamp. Additionally, it makes perfect sense as the show was a “kid’s version” of Saturday Night Live, where Thompson has been an active cast member for several years.

Not only did All That launch a career for Thompson, but it also helped jumpstart the career of many other cast members—such as Amanda Bynes and Nick Cannon, who both ended up with spin-off shows on the network. Additionally, Thompson himself landed a spin-off with co-star Kel Mitchell. In several interviews, Thompson said he “owed his entire career to All That.”

Brian Robbins, President of Nickelodeon, told Variety:

“We think there’s a great opportunity to find the next pool of stars. We want to bring the show back in a real fun way. This summer, we are going to bring back a lot of the original cast and the cast through the years, and let them introduce the new cast of ‘All That’ to the world.” He suggested the program would be “a sort of mash-up of some of the old sketches and a lot of new sketches.”

After the news hit social media, people online were celebrating the return of a classic.

https://twitter.com/SouthernFLASH/status/1096175961723289606

https://twitter.com/Official_RJ96/status/1096133941642305537

https://twitter.com/iBeLdHawkinsXxx/status/1096147409221181440

h/t: Variety.

10 Best Standup Comedians At The Moment

Stand-up comedy is a comic style in which the comedian performs in front of the live audience, where the comedian tells a humorous joke, one liner (monologue) or perform an act. The origin of  standup comedy can be traced back to Parrhesia in 400 BC, where it was the medium to express reality without censorship.

Whatever the origin, standup comedy has flooded our TV sets recently, even though, a decade ago there would be ten to twelve televised hours of standup comedy; the number has raised to eighty last year. Therefore, we have made a list of ten best standup comedians at the moment for the fans of standup comedies.

1. Kyle Kinane

If you are a fan of standup comedy, you may have heard and seen these works of Kyle Kinane and if you have, these comic materials must have made it to your top five lists every year. Yes, he is that good. He is the best of the best right now and is one of the most prolific comedians of his generation.

His works have his own personal touch, is relatable and feels universal. These coupled with a specificity of language and point of view merits him the top ten position in this list. Loose in Chicago must be on your bucket list, watch it now and experience the comedy world full of hilarious jokes.

2. Bill Burr

William Frederic Bill Burr, an American comedian, writer, and actor is one of the best standup comedians right now. Characterized by the prominent Boston accent and jaunty moving way, his materials are direct, brimming with bravado and distinct from many other standup comedians.

This comedy genius is charismatic on stage and builds the comedic moment with his magnetic voice. His standup comedy covers a vast array of topic ranging from women, guns, Chinese driver and everything that infuriates you. In his works, he sounds like a frustrated person, who doesn’t like to be judged or told to do things and surprised by the tyranny of nerds.

Married to wife Nia Renee  Hill since 2013, he is absolutely hilarious and if you haven’t watched his works, go see some of his acts, ordering sandwich, punching muffins on table and find for yourself how good he is.

3. Jim Jefferies

Jim Jefferies was born in Perth, Western Australia, Australia as Geoffrey James Nugent. He is an actor and writer, whose notable works include Legit, Jim  Jefferies: I Swear to God and Jim Jefferies Alcoholocaust. The slurred Australian accent in addition to his use of foul languages in standup shows are trademarks of his works.

His works are available on DVDs but to do justice to him and his works, you must watch him live in action. Currently, he is doing Freedumb, which includes his stances on gun control to the president election of USA and his efforts to be a good dad.

4. Janeane Garofalo

Janeane Garofalo is one of the most popular female  standup comedians, who revolutionized the form in the ‘90s, pioneering Alternative Comedy, the world where originality and honesty became as important as hard jokes.

If you want strict setups and like punches in the comedy, scroll on as this uncompromising comedian covers many topics; some personal, some political and some reality TV shows. Her work is her identity and gives you an insight about her as the person at the moment. She is creating the waves in standup comedy world with If I May right now.

5. Pete Holmes

Most of the standup comedy fans may know him due to his work on popular podcast You Made  It Weird but he is back with faces and sounds where he talks about anything and everything. Whether it is complicated issues like fear or prenotion of the society that man thinks about sex all the time, he is hilarious  all the time.

6. Kevin Hart

Born and raised in  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kevin Darnell Hart is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer. He began his career by winning several amateur comedy competitions at clubs throughout New England, who broke mainstream through the recurring role on TV series Undeclared.

His materials are strong, and his impersonations and facial expression are out of the world. He can tell long stories yet make you laugh in every twist and turn by keeping it fresh. His only flaw is he tends to rush things a little with the facetious beat. Apart from that, he is the best and a very hot property right now in standup comedy world. His mild controversies have certainly helped his popularity. He recently married Eniko Parrish amidst allegations of black celebrities opting for white girls after attaining stardom from his ex-wife Torrei Hart .

7. Ali Wong

Alexandra “Ali” Wong is an Asian American actress, stand-up comedian, and writer. She is the first artist to sell out 6 shows at the Theater at the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles, which proves how popular she is right now.

The words don’t do justice to her exceptional abilities and nothing stops her. Watch the Baby  Cobra which was shot when she was seven  months pregnant, where she managed to make the gross body fluid mechanism hilarious and what’s more? Everyone loved it.

8. Hannibal Buress

Hannibal Buress was born in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He is an actor and writer, known for The Eric Andre Show, The Secret Life of Pets and The Angry  Birds Movie. He began his journey of standup comedy in 2002 while attending Southern Illinois University.

His laid back style of  delivery and uncontrollable fits of laughter occasionally is sure to impress you. Comedy Camisado, his work on 2016, is enough alone to propel him to the top ten positions.

9. Joe Rogan

If you are an avid fan of UFC, you may have known him as the commentator on UFC pay per view. However, Joe Rogan is also one of the funniest  standup comedians at the moment. This American standup comedian hosts podcasts, television shows, and acts on the films besides making you laugh with his comic punches.

Known for his works like Joe Rogan: Triggered, Joe Rogan: Rock Mountain, Joe  Rogan: Live from Tabernacle and much more, his material has an inquisitive and intense comedic style.

Go and watch his live shows, you are definitely going to like them. However, don’t muster a courage to criticize him, this is highly injurious to your health as he knows taekwondo and knows how to throw punches in his real life as well.

10. Laurie Kilmartin

Can the death of dad make a good comedy material? If you think, it doesn’t, then  watch 45 Jokes About My Dead Dad. I will ensure you that you won’t be able to stop laughing. Born in California, USA, Laurie Kilmartin is one of the most popular female comedians currently.

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