With just a week left until my summer internship begins, I find myself wandering through the library, alternating between the science and philosophy sections, confused, which book to pick first in order to make the most of my time. Recently, I had the pleasure of reading a fascinating book titled "The Importance of Being Funny: Why We Need More Jokes in Our Lives." Besides learning countless jokes from its pages, what truly captivated me was the difference in laughter dynamics between men and women.
Have you ever wondered why are professional clowns mostly males? Researchers have looked into this and found some interesting differences between how men and women use and respond to humor. A study from 1996 showed that women often want a partner who can make them laugh, while men tend to offer their own sense of humor more than they seek it in a partner. This suggests that men and women have different expectations when it comes to humor in relationships. Studies have also found that men don't necessarily prioritize a funny partner, but women tend to choose men who can make them laugh. It seems that women interpret a "sense of humor" as someone who can make them laugh, while men want someone who appreciates their jokes.
It's important to understand that just because people say on average men are funnier than women, it doesn't mean every single man is funnier than every single woman. People need to understand the correct meaning of “average”. There are many incredibly funny women out there, who are funnier than most men.
So, why do some people think men are funnier on average? One possibility is that this belief is so widespread that it discourages girls and women from developing and expressing their sense of humor. This can make it harder for women to be seen as funny. However, there isn't much evidence to support the idea that society actively suppresses women's humor.
It all goes back to the evolution. Scientists believe that humor is a sign of intelligence and good genes. Women, who are more selective in choosing a partner due to the burdens of pregnancy, may be attracted to funny men because it suggests they have strong genetic traits that could benefit their potential children. Interestingly, research has shown that women in their high-fertility phase are more attracted to creative men who may not have a lot of money. This preference is mainly for short-term relationships, suggesting that humor and creativity can play a role in certain types of relationships.
Both men and women find laughter attractive because it shows enjoyment, interest, and a connection with others. Studies have shown that women tend to laugh more than men, and both genders find men funnier overall. However, this doesn't mean that men are inherently funnier than women. Men and women often have different ways of being funny. Women tend to share funny stories, use wordplay, and engage in self-deprecating humor. Men, on the other hand, often use quick one-liners and physical comedy like slapstick. Of course, these are just general trends, and there are many exceptions.
Ending with a *funny* joke from the book "The Importance of Being Funny: Why We Need More Jokes in Our Lives."
“Two strangers meet.
Texan: Hi, where are you from?
Harvard Graduate: I come from a place where we do not end sentences with prepositions!”
“Texan: Okay—where are you from, Asshole”
See you next Saturday, Until then, have a great time :)
Cheers!
What’s cooking on twitter?