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Post by Admin on Jan 28, 2013 21:24:16 GMT -5
Saw this on Wikipedia...a theory i'd never heard before. What do you think?
In 2011, three researchers, Hurley, Dennett and Adams, published a book that reviews previous theories of humor and many specific jokes. They propose the theory that humor evolved because it strengthens the ability of the brain to find mistakes in active belief structures, that is, to detect mistaken reasoning.[27] This is somewhat consistent with the sexual selection theory, because, as stated above, humor would be a reliable indicator of an important survival trait: the ability to detect mistaken reasoning. However, the three researchers argue that humor is fundamentally important because it is the very mechanism that allows the human brain to excel at practical problem solving. Thus, according to them, humor did have survival value even for early humans, because it enhanced the neural circuitry needed to survive.
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Post by Admin on Jan 28, 2013 21:24:59 GMT -5
I like this...it also fits in with Bergson's "social corrective" model.
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Keep
New Member
Posts: 4
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Post by Keep on Jan 29, 2013 20:23:43 GMT -5
I really like this one, haven't heard it before but it makes sense.
It's a weird thing that humour is often connected to truth. "It's funny because it's true" or the saying "Only the jester is able to be honest before the King".
But this is a neat way of explaining that. We seek jokes out because they guide us onto the path of "good beliefs".
Still though, it doesn't explain how we recognise something as a joke. If I make a satirical quip about Joe Biden's habit of putting his foot in his mouth, how do you know that's funny in the first place? You must already appreciate that Joe Biden does that. But if you do already appreciate that...then what's the joke done for your beliefs? Nothing. And if you don't already appreciate it...then how would you know whether or not to laugh at its "truthfulness"?
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