Wisecracks

A philosopher's case for the importance of good—if ethically questionable—humour.

A good sense of humour is key to the good life, but a joke taken too far can get anyone into trouble. Where to draw the line is not as simple as it may seem. After all, even the most innocent quips between friends rely on deception, sarcasm, and stereotypes and often run the risk of disrespect, meanness, and harm. How do we face this dilemma without taking ourselves too seriously?

In Wisecracks, philosopher David Shoemaker examines this interplay between humour and morality and ultimately argues that even morally suspect humour is an essential part of ethical life. Shoemaker shows how improvised "wisecracks" between family and friends—unlike scripted stand-up, sketches, or serials—help us develop a critical human skill: the ability to carry on and find the funny in tragedy.

In developing a new ethics of humour in defence of questionable gibes, Wisecracks offers a powerful case for humour as a healing presence in human life.