Why do humans exhibit the bizarre, involuntary physical reflex we call laughter?
In short: Laughter triggers a strange sequence of physical reactions, from baring teeth to altered breathing and muscle weakness. Sasha Winkler explores the scientific theories behind this universal human behavior and what it reveals about our evolutionary history.
Laughter is a complex reflex that remains difficult to trace because it leaves no archaeological record. Despite this, researchers have developed several theories to explain why humans evolved to laugh. The behavior is not unique to humans; vocalizations associated with positive emotional states have been documented in other species, such as the New Zealand parrot.
Understanding laughter requires looking at the physiological changes it induces, including involuntary muscle fatigue and respiratory shifts. By examining these responses, scientists hope to uncover the origins of this social signal and its role in human interaction.
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