Meyer presents a brief, accessible discussion of the role humor plays in communication as defined by the various humor theories. Relief, superiority, and incongruity each make a rather different but related statement about the basic messages of opinion and emotion. The resulting laughter can be affiliating and bonding or aggressive and divisive—that is, the laughter can be 'with' or 'at.' As a result, where humor might be expected to always have a positive effect and open up new avenues of understanding and agreement, it may alienate and block change. If the recipient takes a serious rather than a playful approach, personal relations, organizations, and even cultures may be taken as silly and suffer a negative impact. By contrast, a positive, playful attitude can lead to a warm, close interaction resulting in pleasure and friendship. That is the answer to the question the author poses, 'Why be funny, anyway' Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals.

Choice Reviews

John C. Meyer thoroughly covers many of the classical and philosophical works in humor studies. However, Meyer’s most meaningful contributions are his explanations of humor functions and the communicative implications of humor usage. This book is a must read for communication scholars and people interested in studying humor.

Matthew C. Ramsey, Shippensburg University

The study of humorous communication has truly expanded and grown into its own. Meyers’ book illustrates the array of diverse humor-related topics, pulled together in one source. A great resource for anyone beginning to study humor and communication processes.

Melanie Booth-Butterfield, West Virginia University

Understanding Humor through Communication does an excellent job of summarizing and expanding upon his work on humor functions. Meyer demonstrates the range of contexts where humorous communication contributes to important outcomes. This book is a welcome addition to the field of Communication studies.

Nathan Miczo, Western Illinois University