When No Laughing Matter Is No Laughing Matter: The Challenges in Developing a Cognitive Theory of Humor

Abstract

This paper explores the current obstacles that a cognitive theory of humor faces. More specifically, I argue that the nebulous and ill-defined nature of humor makes it difficult to tell what counts as clear instances of, and deficits in, the phenomenon.Without getting clear on this, we cannot identify the underlying cognitive mechanisms responsible for humor. Moreover, being too quick to draw generalizations regarding the ubiquity of humor, or its uniqueness to humans, without substantially clarifying the phenomenon and its occurrences is not only unwise but can actually be a detriment to our study of humor. As such, these sorts of claims must be resisted. I conclude the paper by pointing the way forward to addressing these obstacles.

A Short Compilation on Theories of Humor and Laughter

“…Cognitive theories on humor exclusive to the elders differ markedly from those of children and youth. Humor appreciation is more a right-brain mediated than lefthemispheric activity (Hochstein, 2021;Foot, 2017). By Erickson's theory, older people are amused by humor that reaffirms the integrity of self despite many incongruities and imperfections or helps them confront the inevitability of their death.…”