From: The Funniest Person Ever: Who's the Best Comedian of All Time?
perspectivescientific

Research into what makes something funny suggests that it's often about surprise and relief. Comedians like Pryor and Murphy were masters at setting up a story and then subverting expectations, making us laugh.

controversy

Supporting arguments

  • Surprise is a key component of humor
  • Relief theory also plays a role
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What else is in this exploration
3 evidence blocks3 visualizations2 insights8 media resources5 rabbit holes
evidence
Eddie Murphy's early stand-up career was incredibly successful
evidence
Richard Pryor is widely regarded as one of the greatest stand-up comedians
evidence
George Carlin was a pioneer of observational comedy
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The Funniest Person Ever: Who's the Best Comedian of All Time?
Evidence, perspectives, rabbit holes, and more