Henri Bergson: 'In laughter we always find an unavowed intention to humiliate and consequently to correct our neighbour.'

In laughter we always find an unavowed intention to humiliate and consequently to correct our neighbour.

Henri Bergson once famously said, "In laughter, we always find an unavowed intention to humiliate and consequently to correct our neighbor." This thought-provoking quote encapsulates the underlying and often hidden motivations that drive our laughter. Laughter, commonly regarded as an expression of joy or amusement, reveals a dual nature; it not only provides us with a momentary release of tension but also serves as a means to assert our superiority over others. Bergson's words shed light on the complex dynamic between humor, power, and the human need to correct and educate those around us.At first glance, the quote brings forth the notion that laughter can serve as a tool for humiliation, suggesting an intention to belittle and correct our neighbors. The act of laughing at someone's expense can be seen as an attempt to reinforce one's own superiority or to undermine the perceived flaws or shortcomings of others. It reflects our instinctive drive to establish dominance and exert control, subtly positioning ourselves as superior in comparison.However, to merely view laughter from this perspective would be to oversimplify its essence. While Bergson's words emphasize the intention to humiliate, it is crucial to recognize that laughter can also function as a powerful social bonding mechanism. It has the ability to unite individuals through shared amusement, creating a collective experience that fosters connections and strengthens social ties. Laughter, in this context, becomes a means of nonverbal communication that transcends language and cultural barriers, reinforcing our sense of belonging and community.To further explore the complexities of laughter, we can introduce the philosophical concept of incongruity theory. Developed by Arthur Schopenhauer and refined by Kant, this theory suggests that humor arises from the unexpected or incongruous elements present in a situation. Incongruity theory provides a lens through which we can examine Bergson's quote and delve into the nuances of laughter's intention to humiliate and correct.According to incongruity theory, our laughter is a response to the violation of our expectations. When we witness an incongruous event, our minds struggle to reconcile the discrepancy between what we anticipate and what actually occurs. This cognitive dissonance creates a humorous effect, leading to laughter. In the context of Bergson's statement, this incongruity can manifest as the sudden realization of another person's imperfect actions, leading to our desire to correct them.By juxtaposing the incongruity theory with Bergson's quote, we gain a deeper understanding of how laughter can simultaneously be rooted in both pleasure and correction. The unexpected or incongruous element in a situation exposes the imperfections or follies of our neighbors, prompting the desire to correct and educate them.It is important to note that while laughter may indeed contain elements of humiliation and correction, these aspects are not inherent to the act itself. The intention behind laughter can vary greatly amongst individuals and situations. Laughter does not always seek to damage or belittle others but can instead serve as a catalyst for self-reflection and personal growth.In conclusion, Henri Bergson's words highlight the multifaceted nature of laughter. Laughter, in its unavowed intention to humiliate and correct our neighbors, reflects our inherent desire to assert dominance and control. However, it is essential to recognize that laughter can also function as a force for bonding and connection. By exploring the philosophical concept of incongruity theory, we gain insights into the mechanisms behind laughter and its ability to expose the imperfections and prompt the desire to correct. Ultimately, laughter serves as a reminder of our shared humanity, providing moments of joy, introspection, and the potential for personal transformation.