ABC Radio
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Humour me: why we laugh and what counts as funny
Humour me: why we laugh and what counts as funny
Humour me: why we laugh and what counts as funny
Sunday 8th January 2023
Explore the science behind laughter with experts in psychology and neuroscience. Discover what makes humour tick.
30 minutes
Informative
Entertaining
Eye-opening
Engaging
Educational
About this podcast
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ABC Radio
Overview:
Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
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Get the buttons here!Why We Laugh: The Science and Art of Humour
Episode Overview
- Humour can be categorised into different styles, each reflecting personality traits.
- Laughter is more likely in social settings than when alone.
- Incongruity and superiority are key theories explaining why we find things funny.
- Comedians exhibit unique brain activity when creating jokes.
- Humour enhances social bonds and can be used as a tool for social acceptance.
When you get that laugh, basically a wave, it feels like a wave of acceptance sort of washing over you.
Ever wondered why certain jokes tickle your funny bone while others leave you scratching your head? This episode of 'All In The Mind' takes a humorous dive into the psychology and neuroscience behind what makes us laugh. With insights from psychologist Neil Martin, neuroscientist Ori Amir, and satirist Mark Humphries, listeners are treated to a lively discussion on humour's evolution from Aristotle's buffoons to today's comedic geniuses.
Neil Martin shares intriguing theories on why we laugh, including incongruity and superiority, while Ori Amir reveals what happens in the brain during comedic creativity. Mark Humphries adds a dash of satire, illustrating how incongruity shapes his sketches. This episode is not just about chuckles; it explores how humour enhances social bonds and reflects personality traits. You'll also learn about the humour styles questionnaire, which categorises humour into affiliative, self-enhancing, self-defeating, and aggressive styles. So, what's your style?
Tune in to find out and perhaps discover a new appreciation for the art of laughter. And remember, laughter is contagious, so share the joy with others!