Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic

"Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic" by Henri Bergson is a thought-provoking exploration into what makes us laugh and why, written in the early 1900s. The book dives deep into the world of humor, presenting a fresh perspective on its origins, linking comedy to both our minds and how we relate to each other. Bergson looks at how comedy shapes what we do, suggesting laughter can act as a way to keep society in check. The book starts with a question: what is laughter at its core, and why do certain things strike us as funny? Bergson highlights that laughter is often a shared experience, tying us together and providing helpful insight into social situations. He notes that funny moments often stem from people acting stiff or being out of touch, framing the book for a study that relates comedy to big ideas about life and art. By pointing out that comedy mirrors human connection, he prepares us for a wider discussion of different kinds of comedy.