[Revised entry by John Morreall on September 19, 2024.
Changes to: Main text, Bibliography]
Although most people value humor, philosophers have said little about it, and what they have said is largely critical. Three traditional theories of laughter and humor are examined, along with the theory that humor evolved from mock-aggressive play in apes. Understanding humor as play helps counter the traditional objections to it and reveals some of its benefits, including those it shares with philosophy itself….

Read the full article which is published on Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (external link)