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Articles on Humour

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We do not laugh at the other’s suffering or distress; we react to the other’s surprise, incongruity and bewildered expression, having deciphered that he or she is not in distress and has not really hurt themselves. (Shutterstock)

Why do we laugh when someone falls down? Here’s what science says

A clinical psychologist explains what has the potential to trigger our usually well-meaning laughter.
We discuss the politics of comedy with comedian Andrea Jin who recently made her late-night debut on ‘The Late Late Show with James Corden’ in October. (The Late Late Show with James Corden)

What’s so funny about race? — Podcast

Some comedians put race at the centre of their comedy, giving audiences a chance to release some tension. But how far is too far? Where is the line between a lighthearted joke and deep-rooted racism?
Canadian Howie Mandel is a veteran stand up comic. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Peter Power

Comedy should punch up, not kick down

At its best, comedy can bridge, unite and heal, rather than divide, bully and perpetuate the very ills that it is uniquely equipped to help us solve.
Illustration detail from the cover of Andy Griffiths’ international bestseller, The Day My Bum Went Psycho (Pan Macmillan).

Teacher sacked for reading bum book to students: the latest conservative book ban

A teacher was fired this month for reading his favourite picture book, I Need a New Butt, to kids. It’s an example of how US conservatives are focusing on school boards as weapons in the culture wars.

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