Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Is sense of humour learned or innate?
Position1 of 2›

A sense of humor is learned

This position holds that a sense of humour is acquired rather than inborn. Proponents argue that what counts as funny varies sharply between cultures and eras, that children learn comic timing by imitation, and that humour depends on knowledge a person must first absorb.

Supporting arguments · 2

  1. What people find funny varies by culture and era, so humour must be taught
  2. Comic skill is acquired by imitation and practice like any other skill