incongruity theory of humor

an explanation of the ability of humor to elicit laughter that emphasizes the juxtaposition of incompatible or contradictory elements. For example, British-born U.S. comedian Bob Hope (1903–2003) once quipped in regard to a place he was visiting: “The mosquitoes here are huge. Last night I shot one in my pajamas. They were tight on him too.” Such theories have roots in the work of Immanuel Kant, Arthur Schopenhauer, Herbert Spencer, and Sigmund Freud. See also release theory of humor.

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Psychology term of the day

February 2nd 2025

incremental

adj. describing or relating to changes that take place in small, cumulative steps rather than in large jumps.