What Makes Something Funny?

The video explores various theories of humor, including superiority, relief, incongruity, and benign violation theories. Superiority theory suggests we laugh at others' misfortunes, while relief theory, expanded by Freud, posits humor as a release of pent-up energy. Incongruity theory focuses on surprise, but studies show predictability can enhance humor. The benign violation theory combines social norm violations with harmlessness to explain humor. Studies demonstrate how context and personal connection affect humor perception. Critics argue the theory's broadness, but it remains a leading explanation.

Which theory suggests that we laugh at others' misfortunes to feel superior?

• Incongruity Theory

• Superiority Theory

• Benign Violation Theory

• Relief Theory

What does the incongruity theory propose about humor?

• Humor comes from unexpected outcomes

• Humor is a violation of social norms

• Humor is a release of pent-up energy

• Humor arises from feeling superior

According to the benign violation theory, what makes something funny?

• It is a harmless violation of a social norm

• It is a predictable outcome

• It is a release of tension

• It is a demonstration of superiority

In the study about a woman donating money, what was found to be funnier when the woman was a stranger?

• Donating $50

• Donating to a friend

• Donating $2,000

• Not donating at all

Why might a joke about a current crisis be considered in bad taste?

• It is too surprising

• It is too predictable

• It is too harmless

• It is too serious and close to home