Lars Forssell’s insightful essay on Chaplin, published in 1953, stands as a testament to the enduring power of comedic analysis. Forssell draws compelling parallels between Chaplin and Kafka, noting Kafka’s purported tendency to collapse into laughter while reading his own darkly comedic works aloud. This underscores the complex interplay between humor and the macabre, a theme that has intrigued philosophers throughout history. Even the most serious thinkers, like Plato and Kant, have grappled with the nature of laughter, though often relegating it to a secondary concern. This historical context highlights the significance of Ingemar Hedenius’ assertion that art is inherently serious, further emphasized by his labeling of Beckett’s dramatic work as ”grotesque comedy.” This backdrop sets the stage for Stina Bäckström’s contemporary exploration of humor.
Bäckström’s book, ”On Humor: Essays on Those Who Are Funny and What Is Fun,” signals a fresh perspective on the philosophy of laughter. As a docent in philosophy at the Center for Practical Knowledge at Södertörn University, Bäckström brings a pragmatic approach to her analysis, grounding her arguments in everyday experiences. She masterfully illustrates the nuances of humor through relatable examples, such as the challenge of joking with a resistant four-year-old amidst the morning rush to daycare. This relatable scenario highlights the importance of timing in humor delivery and the potential for misfires in comedic attempts. Bäckström’s approach contrasts sharply with the often abstract and theoretical nature of traditional comedic analysis, offering a more accessible and grounded perspective.
Traditional theories of comedy often fall into the trap of oversimplification. Henri Bergson’s prominent theory, which posits that laughter arises from the disruption of life’s organic progression by something mechanical (as seen in slapstick), serves as a prime example. René Girard, an anthropologist and literary scholar, counters this by arguing against rigid distinctions between comedy and tragedy, citing the blurred lines between Sophocles’ tragic ”Oedipus Rex” and Molière’s comedic ”The Bourgeois Gentleman.” Girard emphasizes the inherent complexities of life, challenging the notion of an entirely organic existence. Bäckström skillfully navigates these theoretical pitfalls by focusing on concrete observations and real-world scenarios.
Bäckström’s analytical approach distinguishes itself through a grounded perspective, evident in her use of real-life examples like the aforementioned four-year-old and a sensitive case study from elder care, incorporating sociological and psychological insights. This multifaceted approach underscores the delicate balance between humor and offense, demonstrating the potential for comedy to both uplift and wound. The recurring motif of the ”glipa” (gap or crack) in Bäckström’s writing adds a layer of nuance to her exploration of humor. This concept, akin to grace, evokes notions of gifts, forgiveness, and mercy, suggesting that humor can offer glimpses of hope and connection even in the face of imperfection.
Bäckström’s invocation of the Graces, the ancient Greek goddesses of joy and positive qualities, further reinforces the connection between humor and grace. This allusion highlights the potential for humor to serve as a source of delight and positive human connection. Bäckström’s work can be viewed as a ”gift of grace” to the philosophy of laughter, particularly in its timely message about finding joy despite human fallibility. Her insightful analysis offers solace and perspective in a world often marked by complexity and uncertainty.
In essence, Bäckström’s contribution to the philosophy of humor lies in her ability to bridge the gap between abstract theory and lived experience. She avoids the oversimplifications that often plague traditional comedic analysis, opting instead for a nuanced approach that acknowledges the complexities of human interaction and the delicate balance between humor and offense. The use of relatable examples, combined with insightful reflections on the nature of grace and the human condition, elevates Bäckström’s work beyond mere academic discourse. It offers a fresh and accessible perspective on the power of humor to illuminate the human experience, reminding us of the potential for joy even amidst our imperfections.
