Science Weekly
The science of laughing
Dec 10, 2024
Sophie Scott, a professor of cognitive neuroscience at University College London, dives into the fascinating world of laughter. She reveals how laughter serves various social functions, enhancing bonding among humans and animals. Sophie discusses its contagious nature and the differences between voluntary and involuntary laughter, shedding light on the neurobiology behind this joyful expression. The conversation highlights the evolutionary importance of laughter and its potential to improve our well-being.
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Quick takeaways
- Laughter serves as a complex non-verbal communication tool that enhances social bonding and emotional connection among individuals.
- Physiologically, laughter triggers beneficial changes such as decreased stress hormone levels and increased endorphin release, promoting relaxation and well-being.
Deep dives
Understanding the Nature of Laughter
Laughter serves as a non-verbal emotional vocalization, primarily produced through large contractions of the intercostal muscles. This process results in a sound that is distinctly different from speech, consisting of short bursts of air. Notably, humans laugh during exhalation, contrasting with other apes, which can laugh on both inhalation and exhalation. The mechanics of laughter may seem primitive, but it plays a complex role in communication, eliciting various emotional responses and social bonding.
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