The Many Facets of Humor

Dr. Robert V. Gerard
Sep 3
3 min read

By Bureau of Reclamation - https://www.flickr.com/photos/usbr/53633995519/, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=147249290

Humor encompasses a broad spectrum of meanings, ranging from comic expressions or the use of carefully crafted quirkiness to generate a particular state of mind that makes others laugh. Humor is contagious, and comedians are experts at incorporating humor into their scripts. Some employ a more abstract approach to tap into your subconscious thoughts or memories. A good example is how comedians often joke about their spouse’s peculiar mannerisms. For me, hearing a stand-up comedian reveal the humor of his own life experiences with his wife and children is enjoyable. It’s because I can relate to most of it.

Sometimes, humor is used to highlight a crucial point of view. Many people get lost trying to keep centered on their plans but fail. A good example for religious-minded people is: Do you know how to make God laugh? [Answer] You tell him your plans. You can take it one step further and ask: Do you know how to make God cry hysterically? [Answer] Tell him how you are going to do it.

Recently, watching political humor use satire as a form of humor has struck a deep chord within me. Why? Satire may help reveal truths within the political arena. Over the past ten months, a significant amount of misinformation has been disseminated to the public. Since people trust their elected officials, they become subject to what is being imposed upon them. Additionally, repeated lies can become entrenched beliefs, a widely used political strategy that often remains unchecked. However, using humor might be a good thing in getting people to think more deeply about what is being said.

In the USA, California Governor Gavin Newsom has employed a form of political humor that has taken the media by surprise. Newsom mimics, that is, ridicules his opponents by mimicking them on personal and social levels. Using cartoon characterizations of his opponents to undermine them is amusing. That implies that what other political leaders broadcast as their own uniqueness and power, Newsom also claims for himself, which derails the intent of his opponent. Example: If a dictator claims to be king, so does Newsom. Obviously, you can’t have two kings, mitigating the effectiveness of the first claim.

The topic of humor is profound; there are many aspects or facets of humor, and it deserves more attention and respect. If you're more inclined to explore the many elements of humor, I recommend visiting a website that clearly outlines the diverse nature of humor. Use this link to find out: https://cleancomedians.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-humor/

I sense that the attractiveness of humor is in its application. In my opinion, it is an underused creative power. For the most part, there are no specific rules or laws governing its application, but common sense is advised, taking into account the audience. Topics on sex, politics, or ethnicity may require some restraint, but a good speaker should be prepared to convey ideas that the audience can assimilate.

I remember how serious my mother was to me one week before my marriage when she asked: “Bobby, do you know about the birds and the bees?” Obviously, I had a good idea how birds, bees, and people keep things going. But I don’t remember if my mom was serious or simply joking with me.

I hope this article has opened your mind to the potential that can be unlocked by incorporating humor into your conversations. We all need a good laugh. Humor loosens the anchors of hardened and mundane facts, bringing light to what is being conveyed. Humor adds excitement to the conversation. Laughter is the by-product of humor. It can instantly convert a pucker face into a smile. Sometimes humor hurts a stiffened face and brings tears rolling down for you to wipe in laughter.

Understand, applying humor without conscience is a catastrophe. Applying well-thought-out humor is an art form.