An Essay on Laughter: Its Forms, Its Causes, Its Development and Its Value

"An Essay on Laughter: Its Forms, Its Causes, Its Development and Its Value" by James Sully is a scientific exploration of laughter's various forms, causes, and significance, written from philosophical and psychological perspectives in the early 20th century. Sully wanted to connect humor with serious questioning, suggesting people need to understand laughter as essential to human life. The essay starts with Sully's view that laughter is often rejected as a topic worth studying. He addresses opposing thoughts on it suggesting that some people hate laughter and view it as unimportant, whilst others see its value in life. In the beginning, Sully introduces his investigation by understanding counterarguments to the study of laughter. He thinks that laughter is a vital part of human experience and deserves thought, which is why he wants to explore it comprehensively while discussing physiological processes, social effects, and the psychological environment surrounding it.