A new study of great ape laughter also gives clues about how humans’ ancient ancestors started speaking.
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Ten comedians, one room, last comic to laugh wins. But what makes comedy – and not laughing – so funny?
You can’t make a fool of a joyful laugher.
Laughter is so fundamental that animals like chimps, rats and dogs share the ability with humans. But in people it serves more serious social functions than just letting others know you’re having fun.
Whether in the form of a discreet titter or a full-on roar, laughter comes with many benefits for physical and mental health.
Have you heard the one about the Victorian sense of humour?
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Senior Lecturer in History, Edge Hill University
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Associate Professor of French Literature and Thought, University of Exeter
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Assistant Professor of Psychology, University of Virginia
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Professor of Cognitive Psychology, Grinnell College
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Post Doctoral Research Fellow, University of Warwick
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Lecturer in English, University of Tasmania