Question

In research by Provine (1993) on the topic of laughter among groups of people, which of the following was found?

a) Laughter is always associated with humor.
b) Laughter is primarily a conscious response.
c) Women laugh more often than men in social settings.
d) Laughter serves as a social bonding mechanism.

Answer 1

Research by Provine found that women laugh more often than men in social settings, signifying laughter's role in social bonding and human interaction. Option c is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

In research by Provine (1993) on the topic of laughter among groups of people, it was found that c) Women laugh more often than men in social settings. This research indicates that laughter serves various social functions beyond being a mere response to humor.

For instance, cultural universals such as jokes are instrumental in fostering group unity and easing social tensions, as suggested by anthropologist George Murdock. Similarly, sociologist Durkheim highlighted the role of social integration in reinforcing group identity, and laughter plays a part in this through shared experiences.

Furthermore, Mary Douglas’s work implicates humor as a social mechanism that can release pressure from thoughts and behaviors that might threaten the social order. It's not just about comedic value; laughter and humor are integral to human interaction and social cohesion.