Why We Laugh at Inappropriate Humor: A R-Rated Psychology Post
What's Funny About 9/11, Columbine, Jeffrey Dahmer, Race, and Sex
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Humor is a strange thing. It’s a coping mechanism, a social signal, and often, a defense against uncomfortable truths of our existence. Consider it a variant of the human meaning-making machine (source). This is why we sometimes laugh at funerals, during awkward silences, or when the timing is so wrong that it becomes right - and of course, the ick (link).
Even though it’s when the world feels the most unbearable that we need humor - the loudest political extremists try to shut down this pressure valve when things get intense.
Reflecting on the Worst Day in Human History
After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, we were told it was a time of mourning with no room for laughter or joy - 164 songs were banned from radio stations including these beauties that help me get through my own difficult days:
For the full list - click here.
Then Gilbert Gottfried, in true unapologetic fashion, stepped on stage at the Comedy Central Roast of Hugh Hefner and cracked, “I think the Statue of Liberty should be changed to a woman holding a plane.” Silence fell—until the entire room exploded in claps and cheers. That’s how tight the tension had gotten. And it wasn’t just 9/11.
After Columbine, when society demanded mourning and quiet respect, a comedian chose a different tactic.