They Say I Say

1. Thomas Hobbes argues about superiority theory, by stating that “men laugh at mischances and indecencies” and that “men laugh at the infirmities of others.” Laughter results from the idea when one compares his or herself to others and feels that he or she is in a better position.

2. Immanuel Kant proposes relief theory  by bringing in the concept of health conditions; sensations and emotions are key factors that control our body, as Kant claims that “vibration of our organs [helps] restore their equilibrium and has beneficial influence on our health.”

3. Arthur Schopenhauer emphasizes the incongruity theory by asserting that “incongruity between a concept and real objects” is what causes the laughter– he also points out the significance of paradox which mainly starts one to laugh.

4. Herbert Spencer both argues about superiority and incongruity theory, explaining them through physiology. He starts the writing by a question stating “Why do we smile when a child puts on a man’s hat?” We laugh at that child because not only we see a visual mismatch, but also we feel more superior to that child.

Thomas Hobbes connects laughter to superiority theory. Many people think that laughter equals to positivity and joy, but according to Hobbes’ stance, it does not. We laugh at other people’s lack of physical or mental conditions. We mock at other people’s “mischances and indecencies.” We make fun of other people because we think, or more accurately, wish to feel that we are in a more superior position.