Ha! The Science of When We Laugh and Why

Summary: An entertaining tour of the science of humor and laughterHumor, like pornography, is famously difficult to define. We know it when we see it, but is there any way to figure out what we really find funny? In this fascinating investigation into the science of humor and laughter, neuroscientist Scott Weems uncovers what's happening in our heads when we giggle, guffaw, or double over with laughter. Beginning with the premise that humor arises from inner conflict in the brain, Weems explores such issues as why surprise is so important for humor, why computers are terrible at rec.

Record details

ISBN: 9780465080809 (electronic bk.)
ISBN: 0465080804 (electronic bk.)
Physical Description: electronic resource
remote
1 online resource (257 p.)
Publisher: New York : Basic Books, 2014.

Content descriptions

General Note:

Description based upon print version of record.

Formatted Contents Note:

Introduction; PART I: ""What Is?"" The Elusive Concept of Mirth; 1. Cocaine, Chocolate, and Mr. Bean; 2. The Kick of the DIscovery; 3. Stopover at the Empire State Building; PART II: ""What For?"" Humor and Who We Are; 6. Specialization Is for Insects; 5. Our Computer Overlords; PART III: ""So What?"" Becoming a More Jovial Person; 6. The Bill Cosby Effect; 7. Humor Dances; 8. Oh, the Places You'll Go; Conclusion; Acknowledgments; Notes; Index