Even Today, Humor Has a Place in Our Public Discourse
Lighthearted, nonpartisan humor serves as more than just a distraction
As Inauguration Day in the US approaches, public concern over right-wing extremist attacks is mounting. Many Americans worry about a peaceful transfer of power and whether the fabric of our democracy will be torn asunder. These are serious times.
On the day of the US Capitol attack earlier this month, I shared a silly humor piece I had written called “I’m Never Taking Off My Wearable Blanket” to my personal Facebook page. My Facebook post said, “Sharing some silliness by yours truly! I know things are heavy right now, and I hope this brings some momentary lightness,” by way of introduction.
Immediately, I received a private message from an acquaintance. “Just FYI, now is not the best time to be posting your humor. The country is in crisis, and it’s insensitive,” it read.
After a wave of indignation passed, I asked her to explain. From her perspective, humor serves as a dangerous distraction from the pressing social and political issues of our time. It leads us to bury our heads in the sand. Our conversation led me to reflect: What is the role of lighthearted, nonpartisan humor during a time of national crisis?
