Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic' is a philosophical work written by Henri Bergson. In this influential essay, Bergson explores the nature and significance of laughter in human life. Bergson argues that laughter is a uniquely human phenomenon and seeks to uncover its underlying causes and social functions. The author delves into the comedic elements present in various situations, such as comic characters, wordplay, and incongruity. Through a blend of wit, analysis, and anecdotal examples, Bergson examines how laughter arises from the tension between rigid social norms and the inherent flexibility of human behavior. The book also addresses the psychological and physiological aspects of laughter, exploring its release of pent-up energy and its role in social bonding.
Henri Bergson (1859-1941) was a renowned French philosopher and writer, known for his insightful and original contributions to the fields of philosophy, psychology, and aesthetics. Born in Paris, Bergson's philosophical ideas greatly influenced 20th-century thought and continue to resonate today. Bergson's work emphasized the importance of intuition and lived experience over purely rational and intellectual analysis. Through keen observation and philosophical analysis, Bergson examines the social, psychological, and physiological aspects of humor, offering profound insights into the nature of comedy and its role in human society. Bergson's philosophical ideas and writing style had a profound impact on a wide range of disciplines, including literature, psychology, and film theory. He received numerous accolades for his work, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1927.
