Lin Yutang: 'This I conceive to be the chemical function of humor: to change the character of our thought.'

This I conceive to be the chemical function of humor: to change the character of our thought.

Lin Yutang once stated, "This I conceive to be the chemical function of humor: to change the character of our thought." In straightforward terms, this quote suggests that humor has the ability to alter our thinking patterns and transform our perspectives. It highlights the profound impact that humor can have on our mental state and ultimately the way we perceive the world. This recognition of humor's transformative power opens the door to an unexpected philosophical concept - the existential idea of absurdity.When we delve into the notion of humor changing the character of our thought, we can draw parallels to the idea of absurdity, a concept popularized by philosophers such as Albert Camus. Absurdity refers to the inherent meaninglessness and irrationality of existence, where life lacks any objective purpose or logical explanation. This philosophical framework prompts us to question the nature of reality and the validity of our thoughts and beliefs.Humor, with its ability to challenge established norms and subvert expectations, aligns itself with the concept of absurdity. Through comedic elements such as irony, satire, and incongruity, humor exposes the absurdity of some aspects of life. It disrupts our preconceived notions and compels us to view situations from alternative perspectives. By doing so, humor invites an existential reflection on the arbitrary nature of our thoughts and the ambiguity inherent in our interpretations of reality.However, while humor and absurdity may share some common ground, there are fundamental differences between the two. While absurdity often elicits a sense of despair or a feeling of existential dread, humor relies on the positive emotions of joy, amusement, and laughter. It brings lightness to existential questions and provides a temporary reprieve from the heavy burden of contemplating the absurdity of existence. In this sense, humor acts as a coping mechanism, allowing us to navigate the complexities of life with an enlightened mindset.Moreover, humor possesses the transformative power not only to change the character of our thought but also to influence our emotional state. Laughter, the physical manifestation of humor, stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood-enhancing neurotransmitters. This positive physiological response helps alleviate stress, enhance social bonding, and even promote overall well-being. Therefore, humor not only alters our perspective but also positively influences our emotional and mental health.In conclusion, Lin Yutang's quote aptly captures the transformative power of humor on our thought processes. Humor has the capacity to challenge our existing beliefs, expose the absurdity of life, and provoke a philosophical reflection on our interpretations of reality. By invoking joy and laughter, it not only changes our mindset but also provides a therapeutic release that positively impacts our emotional well-being. In this intricate dance between humor and absurdity, we find a precious tool for understanding and navigating the complexities of existence.