Want to be funny? Unless you’re Dane Cook’s mother I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t.
I ran across a formula for humor a few years back which has continually proven itself true. Since then, I’ve seen everything that makes me chuckle, giggle, or Smomn abides by this formula. So let’s get straight to it.
Scott Adam’s (this formula’s brilliant creator) describes it as the 2 of 6 rule. Essentially, there are 6 elements or devices of humor. The key to making people laugh is to combine at least 2 of these. Here are the 6 devices for your viewing pleasure:
- Cuteness – Example: fluffy bunnies, stuffed animals, babies, etc.
- Cleverness – puns, analogies, surprise, timing, etc.
- Meanness – sarcasm, violence, slapstick, etc.
- Familiarity – celebrities, nostalgia, pop culture, stereotypes, etc.
- Bizarreness – talking animals, quirky personalities, random, etc.
- Naughtiness – dirty words, well…you get it…
None of these devices in themselves are funny. A baby generally doesn’t make you laugh. However, a British, talking baby plotting evil against his mother is pretty funny. Stewie Griffin from Family Guy is funny because of cuteness, meanness, and bizarreness.
A mime trapped in an imaginary box isn’t funny. But a mime trapped in an actual box is hilarious. The bizarreness of a mime wasn’t enough to be funny, but a little meanness sure did the trick.
Now try to create your own great humor with 2 or more of these devices. This is my attempt:
Q: What do you call a dog with dynamite strapped to his chest?
A: A terrierist!
Cuteness, meanness, bizarreness, and cleverness.
Now analyze your favorite jokes or humorous moments and tell me what devices they use.
