Developing a personal philosophy of life is a thoughtful and meaningful process. One concept that often arises in this exploration is the importance of laughter in the philosophy of Henri Bergson. While many are aware of this idea, its deeper significance is not always fully understood. Understanding Bergson’s views on laughter can have a profound impact on shaping one’s own philosophy of life. This article examines Henri Bergson’s philosophy, his perspective on laughter, and how these ideas contribute to the broader development of a life philosophy.
Key features of Henri Bergson’s philosophy
Henri Bergson’s philosophy revolves around the ideas of time, creativity, and change, offering a unique perspective on how we understand reality. One of his key concepts is duration (or la durée), which refers to the subjective experience of time as a continuous flow, rather than as a sequence of static moments. Bergson believed that this kind of time, experienced directly by consciousness, is more fundamental than the measured, clock-based time used in science.
Another central idea in his philosophy is élan vital, or the vital force, which he used to describe the creative principle that drives evolution and life itself. Unlike the mechanistic views of evolution, Bergson emphasized that life is dynamic, unpredictable, and marked by creativity and freedom.
Bergson also distinguished between two ways of knowing the world: intellect and intuition. While intellect analyzes and divides reality into static concepts, intuition allows us to grasp things in their fluid, evolving nature. He argued that intuition is essential for understanding life and change at a deeper, more authentic level.
Overall, Bergson’s philosophy challenges rigid, mechanical views of reality and celebrates the fluid, creative, and dynamic qualities of existence. His ideas have influenced not only philosophy but also art, literature, and even science, encouraging new ways of thinking about time and life.
What is laughter?
Henri Bergson viewed laughter as a social phenomenon deeply connected to human nature and interaction. According to Bergson, laughter arises from situations that highlight a kind of rigidity or mechanical behaviour within human actions or characters. He believed that laughter is inherently connected to the human experience, as it often stems from observing something that deviates from societal norms or expectations. For Bergson, this deviation usually involves a lack of adaptability or flexibility, where individuals or situations lose their natural, fluid quality and instead mimic something lifeless or automatic.
Bergson emphasized that laughter is intellectual rather than emotional, meaning it requires a certain level of detachment to occur. People laugh when they can observe and analyze the incongruities or contrasts in behaviour without being emotionally involved. Furthermore, Bergson suggested that laughter serves a corrective purpose in society. It often acts as a way to address behaviours or characteristics that disrupt social harmony or conflict with the natural flow of life. By drawing attention to these rigid or awkward traits, laughter indirectly encourages greater adaptability and vitality.
Overall, Bergson’s perspective highlights the intricate relationship between human behaviour, society, and the phenomenon of laughter. He saw it as more than just a reaction—it is a reflection of how individuals and groups maintain balance and vitality within a dynamic and ever-changing social world.
This example highlights this philosophical perspective. Imagine a group of friends witnessing someone slip on a patch of ice but recover in a humorous and exaggerated manner, avoiding any harm. The group erupts into laughter, not out of malice, but because the situation seems unexpected and comically out of place. The scene creates a moment where the natural flow of life is temporarily disrupted, and the person’s movements appear mechanical or rigid compared to the fluidity usually associated with human actions. This contrast generates amusement as the friends observe the situation together. Their shared laughter forms a bond, drawing attention to the absurdity of the moment rather than any serious consequence. Such an example captures how everyday events can evoke laughter in ways that reflect a deeper connection to the human experience, as explored through this lens.
Challenges to Henri Bergson’s view about laughter
Some philosophers object to Henri Bergson’s ideas about laughter because they feel his explanations are too narrow and fail to capture the full complexity of this human experience. One common criticism is that laughter cannot be so easily reduced to a single cause or purpose. While Bergson offers one perspective, other thinkers argue that laughter arises in diverse situations, such as joy, discomfort, or social bonding, making it difficult to define its origins or functions through one lens alone.
Additionally, some philosophers challenge the notion that laughter serves a corrective or societal purpose, as Bergson suggests. They believe this view overlooks how laughter is often unpredictable or disconnected from any clear moral or educational intent. For instance, people laugh at absurdity, irony, or even randomness, which may not have any deeper goal or meaning. By focusing too much on a particular explanation, Bergson’s critics worry his approach diminishes the richness and spontaneity of laughter in human life.
Another significant objection is that Bergson’s view may lack cultural sensitivity. Philosophers have pointed out that the triggers for laughter can vary significantly across different cultures and contexts. What one culture finds humorous, another might find offensive, or simply fail to appreciate as funny. This variability suggests that laughter is shaped by social, historical, and personal factors, which might escape the scope of Bergson’s analysis. His critics argue that limiting the understanding of laughter to certain frameworks neglects its diverse expressions and meanings.
Finally, some think that Bergson does not adequately address the emotional and psychological aspects of laughter. Rather than being purely social or corrective, laughter is deeply linked to human emotions like happiness, surprise, or even relief. Critics note that any perspective on laughter should consider this layer of complexity and how it influences human relationships and personal well-being.
Overall, objections to Bergson’s views about laughter often stem from his focus on a specific interpretation, which some think is too restrictive or incomplete. Laughter, according to these critics, is a multifaceted experience deserving a broader and more inclusive approach.
Why laughter is important to Henri Bergson’s philosophy
These are some of the primary reasons why grasping the concept of laughter is essential to comprehending Henri Bergson’s philosophy.
- Laughter as a Social Phenomenon
Laughter plays a significant role in understanding social behaviours and relationships. It often emerges in response to certain actions or situations that deviate from societal norms. By studying laughter, one can explore how individuals collectively maintain or challenge societal expectations. It highlights the unwritten rules that guide behaviour and shows how humour can act as a form of social correction, gently pointing out inconsistencies without direct confrontation. This perspective deepens our understanding of human interaction and the subtle ways people influence each other, helping to shape the society they live in.
- Laughter and Human Creativity
Laughter is a direct reflection of human creativity and imagination. The act of finding humour in a situation often involves seeing something familiar in an unexpected way. This demonstrates the rich ability of the human mind to think beyond literal or practical interpretations of the world. Laughter invites people to connect through shared understanding and to find new perspectives on life’s complexities. By examining why something is funny, one learns about the inventive ways humans think, communicate, and solve problems collectively.
- Laughter and Emotional Connection
Laughter has a unique ability to build emotional bonds between people. It often arises in moments of shared joy or understanding, creating a sense of unity and empathy among individuals. By studying laughter, we gain insight into how people form connections and foster positive relationships. This understanding extends to larger communities, as humour can transcend language and cultural barriers. Laughter reminds us of the emotional aspect of being human, offering a glimpse into how shared experiences shape collective identity.
Contrasting Henri Bergson’s philosophy with Sigmund Freud’s philosophy
Henri Bergson’s perspective on laughter offers a sharp contrast to Sigmund Freud’s approach to the topic, highlighting key differences in their philosophical frameworks. Bergson views laughter primarily as a social phenomenon, something that arises when human behaviour becomes mechanical or rigid in a way that contrasts with the flexible vitality of life. For him, laughter serves as a corrective tool, encouraging people to adapt and reintegrate into the fluidity of social norms. It is less about individual psychology and more about maintaining the cohesion of a community.
On the other hand, Freud’s analysis of humour and laughter is deeply rooted in his psychoanalytic framework. He ties laughter to the release of psychic tension, often stemming from suppressed desires or unconscious conflicts. Freud emphasises the role of individual experiences and internal processes, seeing humour as a mechanism to find relief or satisfaction in navigating the complexities of the human mind. This makes Freud’s view more personal and introspective compared to Bergson’s socially focused outlook.
Ultimately, while both thinkers address the subject of laughter, Bergson places it in the context of societal dynamics and its relationship to life’s adaptability. Freud, in contrast, situates laughter within the realm of the unconscious, highlighting its role in the inner workings of the human psyche. Their differing perspectives reflect the broader divide between their philosophies, one centred on collective social function and the other on individual psychological processes.
Laughter, Henri Bergson’s philosophy and the philosophy of life
Reflecting on Henri Bergson’s views about laughter, regardless of whether one agrees with him or not, holds significant practical importance in the context of shaping a personal philosophy of life. Laughter, as an expression deeply ingrained in human behavior, serves as more than just a response to humor. It can offer insights into human nature, social dynamics, and the ways people connect with each other. Thinking critically about laughter and its place in life allows us to explore a broader understanding of how we approach emotions, relationships, and challenges.
One reason this reflection is important is that laughter often highlights shared experiences and emotions. It draws attention to the balance between individuality and community, a concept that’s central to building a meaningful life philosophy. By considering why people laugh, what they laugh at, and whether laughter unites or divides, individuals can grow a deeper awareness of their values and priorities. This, in turn, informs how we choose to live, interact with others, and interpret the world around us.
Another way reflecting on laughter contributes to personal growth is by encouraging mindfulness and observation. Pausing to consider what triggers laughter and its implications can lead to a more thoughtful approach to life. For instance, laughter might be a way to cope with difficulties or to energize relationships, showcasing its potential role in navigating life’s ups and downs. Furthermore, examining laughter as part of human experience helps develop empathy and understanding, key elements in creating a fulfilling and well-rounded life perspective.
Finally, reflecting on any philosophical view challenges individuals to engage in critical self-examination. It pushes us to question assumptions, analyze motivations, and refine our beliefs. Whether one fully embraces Bergson’s ideas or not, grappling with his perspective presents an opportunity to explore the complexities of human existence. Ultimately, this fosters a clear and intentional philosophy of life that aligns with our values while remaining open to new insights.
By taking the time to ponder concepts like laughter and its significance in human life, we open doors to deeper understanding and personal growth. This process helps us move one step closer to living with intention and purpose—qualities that define a philosophy of life worth pursuing. The act of reflection itself becomes as meaningful as the principles we adopt.
Further reading
Bergson, H. (1911). Laughter: An essay on the meaning of the comic (C. Brereton & F. Rothwell, Trans.). Macmillan.
Carroll, N. (2014). Humour: A very short introduction. Oxford University Press.
Critchley, S. (2002). On humour. Routledge.
Morreall, J. (1983). Taking laughter seriously. State University of New York Press.
Morreall, J. (2009). Comic relief: A comprehensive philosophy of humour. Wiley-Blackwell.
Provine, R. R. (2000). Laughter: A scientific investigation. Viking Press.
Sanders, B. (1995). Sudden glory: Laughter as subversive history. Beacon Press.
Stott, A. (2005). Comedy. Routledge.