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Laughter, Inclusion, and Exclusion in the Twentieth Century: German and European Perspectives

Ivan Turgenev

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Published in The Politics Of Humour: Laughter Inclusion And Exclusion In The Twentieth Century (German And European Studies)

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The Politics of Humour: Laughter, Inclusion, and Exclusion in the Twentieth Century (German and European Studies)

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Laughter is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can have both positive and negative effects on social relationships. In the twentieth century, laughter was used as a tool for social control, exclusion, and resistance in both Germany and Europe. This article explores the complex interplay between laughter, inclusion, and exclusion in the twentieth century German and European context.

Laughter as a Tool for Social Control

In the early twentieth century, laughter was often used as a tool for social control. This was especially true in Germany, where the government used laughter to ridicule and humiliate its political opponents. For example, in 1933, the Nazis produced a propaganda film called The Triumph of the Will that featured footage of Hitler and his followers laughing at and mocking their opponents. This film was used to create a sense of unity among the German people and to demonize their enemies.

Laughter was also used as a tool for social control in other European countries. For example, in the Soviet Union, laughter was used to ridicule and humiliate those who were considered to be enemies of the state. This was especially true during the Stalinist era, when laughter was used to create a climate of fear and paranoia.

Laughter as a Tool for Exclusion

Laughter can also be used as a tool for exclusion. This is because laughter can create a sense of belonging among those who share the same sense of humor. However, it can also create a sense of exclusion among those who do not share the same sense of humor. This can be especially harmful to those who are already marginalized or excluded.

For example, in the United States, black people have often been the target of racist jokes. These jokes can be very hurtful and can make black people feel excluded and unwelcome. Similarly, in Europe, Jews have often been the target of anti-Semitic jokes. These jokes can be very hurtful and can make Jews feel excluded and unwelcome.

Laughter as a Tool for Resistance

Laughter can also be used as a tool for resistance. This is because laughter can be a way to challenge authority and to express dissent. For example, during the Nazi era in Germany, many people used laughter to resist the Nazi regime. They would tell jokes about Hitler and the Nazis, and they would laugh at the Nazis' propaganda films. This laughter was a way to show that they did not support the Nazi regime and that they were not afraid of them.

Laughter has also been used as a tool for resistance in other European countries. For example, in the Soviet Union, many people used laughter to resist the Stalinist regime. They would tell jokes about Stalin and the Communist Party, and they would laugh at the regime's propaganda. This laughter was a way to show that they did not support the regime and that they were not afraid of it.

Laughter is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can have both positive and negative effects on social relationships. In the twentieth century, laughter was used as a tool for social control, exclusion, and resistance in both Germany and Europe. This article has explored the complex interplay between laughter, inclusion, and exclusion in the twentieth century German and European context.

Laughter can be a powerful force for good, but it can also be a powerful force for evil. It is important to be aware of the different ways in which laughter can be used, and to use it wisely.

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