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Can laughing at jokes and satire actually help bridge racial gaps and misunderstanding?

Newhouse Impact: Showcasing the research and creative activity of faculty and students at the Newhouse School

We often laugh at comedy and satire. But can these forms of entertainment be effective in spreading understanding about serious topics and issues, such as race and diversity?

On this episode of Newhouse Impact Dr. Charisse L'Pree and Prof. Luvell Anderson discuss their work breaking down the messages that can be embedded in satire and humor. Their PoSH Lab - Psychology, Philosophy and Pedagogy of Satire and Humor can help students examine serious topics and inform their own work.

Anderson and L'Pree also point out humor has long been a place where race and differences have been discussed, and in some cases it's a way to call out stereotypes and break down barriers.

(Music: New Ideas by Till Paradiso, freemusicarchive.orgcc by-nc license )