Humor as Control

 A recurring theme I noticed in these two articles is the idea of humor as a bridge between groups of people. In this case, the test subjects used humor to create a more comfortable space to talk about death as they knew it. They all experienced loss--they already had this in common--but they used humor in clever ways to relieve tension. For example, they downplayed death itself, used narrative chaining, and even spoke poorly about the dead to make themselves feel more comfortable. In all of these uses I notice one thing: the subjects trying to gain control in this situation. When talking about death--an event we as humans have no control over--we used humor to regain our agency and demystify the event. 

In the results of the test, the researchers list the various modes of humor used throughout the experiment. Most notably, they state, "(chain humor' tension-relieving humor, and entertainment humor); to increase their own likeability or promote affinity within the group" (7). Considering that the main purpose of these jokes was to bring the group together, it is interesting to observe people trying to be likeable themselves instead of honoring the intentions of the group. Although, appearing more likeable or "save face"--a term used later in the study--helps others feel more comfortable around you and therefore promotes community. Similarly, to lessen the intense emotions brought up by death, participants used humor. Here, humor becomes an avoidance mechanism. 

Throughout this study, we see humor take on many forms. It promotes community, fosters avoidance, and gains control. In whichever form, we see humor as a release (8). For a moment, we are able to control the out-of-control emotions we feel when talking about death--something we also have no control over. We can express our feelings indirectly yet healthily--which is a rather interesting dichotomy. In our attempt to regain agency, we demystify death for ourselves.