Description
We’re accustomed to seeing humour as a diversion from the serious side of life, but humour also permeates some of the most troubling political developments in recent years. From the resurgence of white nationalism to the erosion of democratic norms, jokes force-feed us objectionable ideologies while we gasp and splutter at all the side-splitting shenanigans. This book explores the relationship between humour and offensiveness in contemporary society. Drawing on examples from philosophical thinkers and popular culture, it invites readers to consider the dark side of humour. Weaving together cultural analysis, political discussion and philosophical reflection, the book provides an antidote to positive thinking about laughter and a roadmap for navigating different types of offensive humour.We’re accustomed to seeing humour as a diversion from the serious side of life, but humour also permeates some of the most troubling political developments in recent years. This book explores the relationship between humour and offensiveness in contemporary society. Drawing on examples from philosophical thinkers and popular culture, it invites readers to consider the dark side of humour. Weaving together cultural analysis, political discussion and philosophical reflection, the book provides an antidote to positive thinking about laughter and a roadmap for navigating different types of offensive humour.Table of ContentIntroduction 1. Content Warning 2. Laugh Track 3. Prankster Diplomacy 4. Evil Clowns 5. Body Double 6. Gender Reveal ConclusionBiographical NoteNick Butler is Associate Professor of Organization Studies at Stockholm University, Sweden.“Butler's provocative work challenges the widespread assumption that humour is naturally a progressive force for good. In doing so, he provides a key frame for understanding the appeal of far-right cultural forces and how we might combat them." Matt Sienkiewicz and Nick Marx, co-authors of That's Not Funny: How the Right Makes Comedy Work for Them“A panorama of the uses and abuses that comedy and laughter are put to in nearly all aspects of contemporary culture, politics and society. From the history of the laugh track on sitcoms to their uncanny reappearance in troll and lulz culture on social media, through the clownishness of our politicians and the seriousness of politicians who were once clowns, Butler takes the reader on a ride through the topsy-turvy world of contemporary jokes, provoking the question: Why is laughter today seemingly everywhere, but answers are nowhere to be found?” Daniel Smith, Cardiff University• Invites readers to recognise the broader political implications of jokes, laughter and comedy and highlights the effect jokes have on ourselves and others, which are anything but innocent. • Deals with themes that are at the forefront of contemporary cultural and political analysis – such as racism, sexism and authoritarianism. • Draws on a range of philosophical thinkers to provide readers with a roadmap for navigating different types of offensive humour.
