The Benign Violation Theory of Humor

What is one reason why humor is important in our lives?

• It helps us make decisions about our financial investments.

• It influences our entertainment choices and social interactions.

• It prevents us from experiencing stress.

• It has no significant role in daily life.

What sparked the author's research into humor?

• A humorous movie scene.

• A lecture on the mechanics of laughter.

• An audience laughing at a moral violation example.

• A joke about tickling.

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According to the Benign Violation Theory, humor occurs when:

• Something feels wrong, but is harmless.

• There is a serious injury.

• Social norms are strictly followed.

• No violation occurs.

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Which of the following is NOT a condition for humor in the Benign Violation Theory?

• Violation.

• Malign violation.

• Benignity.

• Psychological distance.

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CCSS.L.11-12.5

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How is psychological distance related to humor?

• It makes the violation more personal and severe.

• It can make a violation feel benign if it happens to someone else or occurred in the past.

• It eliminates humor altogether.

• It causes confusion, making humor impossible.

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Why is self-tickling not funny according to the Benign Violation Theory?

• There is no violation.

• It is psychologically distant.

• It is perceived as a malign violation.

• There is no benignity.

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CCSS.RI.11-12.4

What is an example of a purely benign situation that is not funny?

• A stranger falling down stairs.

• Walking down stairs without any incident.

• A comedian telling a joke.

• Tickling someone else.

According to the theory, what makes falling down stairs potentially funny?

• The person is injured.

• The person falling is a friend.

• The person remains unharmed, making it a benign violation.

• It happens in a private setting.

What might make a pun humorous according to the Benign Violation Theory?

• It violates moral norms.

• It disrupts linguistic norms but is perceived as acceptable.

• It is psychologically distant.

• Puns are inherently funny.

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CCSS.L.11-12.5

What does the Silverman Strategy involve?

• Creating humor by bringing mild violations closer.

• Using psychological distance to make violations benign.

• Making humor from everyday situations.

• Removing all violations from a situation.

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