2007-03-08 03:43:46 · 7 answers · asked by Rhid 2 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Many years ago on the old Dick Van Dyke show he went to his son's school (after going through the episode of how Richie didn't want him to go because he was "just a comedy writer".) He did this really funny gag when he walked in and tripped. The kids cracked up and he went on to explain that the things we think are funny are things that are unexpected.
I think that's part of the answer, but certainly there are unexpected things that aren't funny in the least.
It's like watching America's Funniest Videos. The old "got hit in the crotch" routine isn't that funny any more because we expect it to happen, but it's still funny to see someone fall down. Maybe it's because even if you're expecting it to happen you don't expect the way the person will look in that instance of falling.
Interesting question!
2007-03-08 03:51:03 · answer #1 · answered by Behaviorist 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I was twelve, I was visiting my cousin. He and my uncle and I were eating breakfast when the seat of my chair gave way. I fell straight down. It didn't hurt. But to them it looked as though I'd simply dissappeared. I laughed in releaf. But I wish I could have seen it from their prospective; because they were crying with laughter.
2007-03-08 12:10:47 · answer #2 · answered by Handy man 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Everyone laughs at others peoples misfortune I think its because we know we arent suppose to. Everyone at work finds it hilarious when I fall over which is a regular thing as I am a bit clumsy.
2007-03-08 11:53:00 · answer #3 · answered by bez 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think its probably because its their own fault.
Their either leaning too far back, over reaching, or just plain didn't check to see where the chair was when they sat down.
I think we somehow feel they deserve it, so its funny.
2007-03-08 11:48:43 · answer #4 · answered by Bloke Ala Sarcasm 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i know wat u mean
i know sumone that was balancing a mug of hot coffee on their lap then they fell down it was hilaries n we were all laughing our heads off. lol i don't know y we find it funny but i think its just because we lik to see sumone else make a fool of themselves instead of us. lol
wat do u think n that was a gd question. well done!
2007-03-08 15:09:48 · answer #5 · answered by shilpa n 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i don't know but don't laugh untill you see if they are alright. then go with it
2007-03-08 12:03:54 · answer #6 · answered by michael_6446 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
not sure......I suppose because we have all done it
2007-03-08 11:47:44 · answer #7 · answered by rose_merrick 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋