George Orwell: 'Whatever is funny is subversive, every joke is ultimately a custard pie... a dirty joke is a sort of mental rebellion.'

Whatever is funny is subversive, every joke is ultimately a custard pie... a dirty joke is a sort of mental rebellion.

The quote by George Orwell, 'Whatever is funny is subversive, every joke is ultimately a custard pie... a dirty joke is a sort of mental rebellion,' encapsulates the inherent power and impact of humor. In a straightforward sense, Orwell suggests that humor possesses a subversive quality, as every joke is like a metaphorical custard pie, capable of challenging and disrupting norms. Furthermore, he contends that even a dirty joke can be seen as a form of mental rebellion, pushing the boundaries of societal expectations.Humor has long been recognized as a source of entertainment, joy, and relief from the hardships of life. However, Orwell's perspective goes beyond that, emphasizing how humor carries the potential to disrupt and subvert established ideologies and social structures. Comedy can act as a mirror to society, reflecting its flaws and contradictions in a way that allows people to question and challenge existing power dynamics. By turning serious subjects into the material for jokes, humorists can shine a light on topics that may be uncomfortable or taboo, fostering an environment for critical thinking and discussion.An interesting philosophical concept that can be related to Orwell's quote is the theory of incongruity. This theory suggests that humor arises from the unexpected clash of ideas or situations, violating our expectations and creating a sense of surprise. According to this perspective, the set-up of a joke introduces a predictable scenario, only to be resolved in an unexpected, often absurd, manner. The element of surprise disrupts our usual patterns of thinking and perception, leading to laughter as a release of tension.Drawing a parallel between incongruity theory and Orwell's notion of humor as subversive can shed new light on the significance of comedy. Both concepts highlight the disruptive nature of humor, challenging the status quo and pushing against established norms. Incongruity theory suggests that the unexpected resolution of a joke forces us to reevaluate our assumptions and consider alternative perspectives. Similarly, Orwell's perspective implies that humor provides a platform for mental rebellion, allowing individuals to question and critique prevailing ideologies in a non-confrontational manner.However, it is important to note that not all humor is inherently subversive. While comedy can serve as a tool for social commentary and resistance, it can also be used to reinforce existing power structures or perpetuate harmful stereotypes. The intention and context behind a joke play a crucial role in its ultimate impact. A joke that perpetuates prejudice or targets marginalized groups should not be celebrated as subversive but rather condemned for its potential harm.In conclusion, George Orwell's quote encapsulates the subversive nature of humor, suggesting that every joke, even dirty ones, carries an element of rebellion. By challenging societal norms and offering an alternative perspective, comedy can serve as a powerful force for change. When combined with the theory of incongruity, humor's ability to disrupt our expectations and provoke laughter becomes even more apparent. However, it is essential to consider the ethics of comedy and ensure that humor is not used to reinforce harmful ideologies. Comedy has the potential to be a catalyst for critical thinking and societal transformation, but it must be wielded responsibly and with sensitivity.