1. Based on the research of Dr. Richard Taflinger
The Theory of Comedy
Based on the research of Dr. Richard Taflinger

2. #1 Intellect and Emotions
Comedy must appeal to the intellect and not to the emotions
Ethnic Humor
Lenny Bruce

3. #2 Mechanization Comedy must be mechanical Physical comedy Slapstick
Inability of a person to adapt/react to an environment

4. #3 Inherently Human
Comedy must be inherently human, with the capability or reminding us of humanity
Satire/Parody

5. #4 Action/Dialogue
Comedy must possess situations and component parts (action/dialogue) which are inconsistent or unsuitable to the societal norm

6. #5 Societal Norms
Comedy must have an established set of social norms with which the observer is familiar, either through everyday life or through an author’s expository form
Incongruities
Internal Norms  Author Provides
External Norms  Societal

7. Incongruities Literalization  Taking a figure of speech literally
Reversal  Reversing the normal
Exaggeration  Taking what is normal and blowing it out of proportion

8. Pain is Funny
Comedy must be perceived as harmless or painless to the participants