• Question: why do we laugh?

    Asked by dudets to Lydia, Áine, Ciarán, Eoin, Victoria on 20 Nov 2014. This question was also asked by sullivan rules.
    • Photo: Lydia Bach

      Lydia Bach answered on 20 Nov 2014:

      Hey,

      scientists believed that during evolution laughter developed as a signal to show that danger had passed.
      Only in time it has become more of a social thing, helping people to share connections and build trust. Laughing therefore helps groups of people to bond with one another.Laughing also produces endorphins, happy hormones, which makes us comfortable.

      Scientists also found that laughing helps to distract from danger or difficult social situations. Imagine someone in an interview situation waiting to answer questions to a big boss. If the big boss joins the laughter or initiates it then the situation immediately appears more peaceful!

      Laughter is also a reflex – especially when tickled! Some scientists think that kids being and reacting to being tickled allowed them to develop defensive and combat moves!

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