Description
What makes us laugh? Why is comedy so important? How does comedy affect our behaviour?
The Psychology of Comedy provides a unique insight into the role of laughter and humour in our lives. From the mechanics of comedy and what makes a good joke, to the health benefits of laughter, the book delves into different types of comedy, from slapstick to complex puns, and the physiological response it provokes. The dark side of comedy is also considered, confronting the idea that what is funny to some can be offensive to others, making this universal experience also highly subjective.
In a time when comedy continues to be one of the most popular and enduring forms of art, The Psychology of Comedy reminds us that laughter really is good for the soul.
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1
An Introduction to the Psychology of Comedy
CHAPTER 2
Theories of comedy and laughter
CHAPTER 3
Individual differences in humour-sex, personality, culture and intelligence
CHAPTER 4
Comedians and their personalities
CHAPTER 5
The uses of comedy i: health and therapy
CHAPTER 6
The uses of comedy ii: learning, marketing and advertising
CHAPTER 7
Funny bones? The physiology and neurology of comedy
