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fresnelly · 08-17-2006, 12:39 PM

Perhaps the answer can be found in American Humour's shift towards observational and ironic self reference, and away from wit. I would guess this trend began to take root in the 80's, with the mainstreaming of standup comedy on Evening at the Improv and the irreverence of The Simpsons.

These modes of comedy depend entirely on a shared experience and the ability to relate to the comic or character. Maybe this trend is a factor in the political polarization of America; myth or not.

A witty turn of phrase or pun can be funny to anyone, but a bit such as "What's the deal with SUV's?" is bound to shut out someone.

We're conditioning ourselves to prejudge humour by topic. Now we have niche comedy just like we have niche politicians.

08-17-2006, 12:39 PM	#13 (permalink)
fresnelly Functionally Appropriate Location: Toronto	Perhaps the answer can be found in American Humour's shift towards observational and ironic self reference, and away from wit. I would guess this trend began to take root in the 80's, with the mainstreaming of standup comedy on Evening at the Improv and the irreverence of The Simpsons. These modes of comedy depend entirely on a shared experience and the ability to relate to the comic or character. Maybe this trend is a factor in the political polarization of America; myth or not. A witty turn of phrase or pun can be funny to anyone, but a bit such as "What's the deal with SUV's?" is bound to shut out someone. We're conditioning ourselves to prejudge humour by topic. Now we have niche comedy just like we have niche politicians. __________________ Building an artificial intelligence that appreciates Mozart is easy. Building an A.I. that appreciates a theme restaurant is the real challenge - Kit Roebuck - Nine Planets Without Intelligent Life Last edited by fresnelly; 08-17-2006 at 12:43 PM..