Ha! : the science of when we laugh and why / Scott Weems.

  • Weems, Scott
Date:
[2014]
  • Books

About this work

Description

"Humor, like pornography, is famously difficult to define. We know it when we see it, but is there any way to figure out what we really find funny? In this fascinating investigation into the science of humor and laughter, neuroscientist Scott Weems uncovers what's happening in our heads when we giggle, guffaw, or double over with laughter. Beginning with the premise that humor arises from inner conflict in the brain, Weems explores such issues as why surprise is so important for humor, why computers are terrible at recognizing what's funny, and why cringe-worthy stereotypes make us laugh the hardest. From the role of insult jokes to the benefit of laughing for our immune system responses, Ha! reveals why humor is so idiosyncratic, and why how-to books alone will never help us become funnier people. Packed with the latest research, amusing anecdotes (and even a few jokes), Ha! is a delightful tour of why humor is so important to our daily lives."--Publisher information.

Publication/Creation

New York : Basic Books, a member of the Perseus Books Group, [2014]

Physical description

xvii, 230 pages : illustrations ; 25 cm

Contributors

Bibliographic information

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Contents

"What is?" The elusive concept of mirth : Cocaine, chocolate, and Mr. Bean ; The kick of the discovery ; Stopover at the Empire State Building -- What for?" Humor and who we are : Specialization is for insects ; Our computer overlords -- "So what?" Becoming a more jovial person : The Bill Cosby effect ; Humor dances ; Oh, the places you'll go.

Languages

Where to find it

  • LocationStatus
    Medical Collection
    BF575.L3 2014W39h
    Open shelves

Permanent link

Identifiers

ISBN

  • 9780465031702
  • 0465031706