Redeeming Laughter : The Comic Dimension of Human Experience

Peter L. Berger

ISBN 10: 3110353938 / ISBN 13: 9783110353938

Published by De Gruyter Aug 2014, 2014

About this Item

Neuware - Amid the variety of human experiences, the comic occupies a distinctive place. It is simultaneously ubiquitous, relative, and fragile. In this book, Peter L. Berger reflects on the nature of the comic and its relationship to other human experiences. Berger contends that the comic is an integral aspect of human life, yet one that must be approached and analyzed circumspectly and circuitously. Beginning with an exploration of the anatomy of the comic, Berger addresses humor in philosophy, physiology, psychology, and the social sciences before turning to a discussion of different types of comedy and finally suggesting a theology of the comic in terms of its relationship to folly, redemption, and transcendence. Along the way, the reader is treated to a variety of jokes on a variety of topics, with particular emphasis on humor and its relationship to religion. Originally published in 1997, the second edition includes a new preface reflecting on Berger's work in the intervening years, particularly on the relationship between humor and modernity.

Seller Inventory # 9783110353938

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Redeeming Laughter : The Comic Dimension of Human Experience
• Publisher: De Gruyter Aug 2014
• Publication Date: 2014
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 3110353938
• ISBN 13: 9783110353938
• Binding: Taschenbuch
• Edition: 2nd Edition
• Condition: Neu
• Dimensions: 230W x 155H x 13D millimeters 230 millimeters width by 155 millimeters height by 13 millimeters depth
• Weight: 340 grams

About this title

Synopsis

Amid the variety of human experiences, the comic occupies a distinctive place. It is simultaneously ubiquitous, relative, and fragile. In this book, Peter L. Berger reflects on the nature of the comic and its relationship to other human experiences. Berger contends that the comic is an integral aspect of human life, yet one that must be approached and analyzed circumspectly and circuitously. Beginning with an exploration of the anatomy of the comic, Berger addresses humor in philosophy, physiology, psychology, and the social sciences before turning to a discussion of different types of comedy and finally suggesting a theology of the comic in terms of its relationship to folly, redemption, and transcendence. Along the way, the reader is treated to a variety of jokes on a variety of topics, with particular emphasis on humor and its relationship to religion. Originally published in 1997, the second edition includes a new preface reflecting on Berger’s work in the intervening years, particularly on the relationship between humor and modernity.

About the Author

Peter L. Berger, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.