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Laughter Research

In the Laughter Research Podcast, I explore the phenomenon of laughter, from the fascinating science of laughter research, to the joys of laughing until you cry. The show is a mix of interviews and commentary by me - Glen Duggan. I've a Ph.D. in psychology, with a specialisation in laughter, so you could say that I have a serious interest in the topic.

My guests vary from academics, such as psychologists and sociologists, to entrepreneurs and comedians. In each episode I explore the role which laughter plays in our daily lives and I examine the truths and the myths around laughter. Is laughter purely a physiological response, or is it a social and culturally mediated means of communication?

Music by jasonshaw@audionautix.com

Jul 29, 2021

Why is it that we laugh at stuff that's not 'funny', like walking straight into a pole? What kind of person does it make us if we laugh at someone else walking into a pole, but it's not funny when we do it? 

In this episode I explore how laughter is but one of a variety of tools that we use in our everyday lives to help...


Jun 25, 2021

Who is the Laughter Research podcast for? 

Maybe you're a performer and you want to understand more about why people laugh, or maybe you're a school teacher and you're wondering how laughter might benefit your students.

You may be working in a dangerous or stressful environment and you're wondering if laughter can help...


Jun 21, 2021

What is the purpose of laughter? Is it simply a physiological response to humour? If so, why do people find themselves laughing at extremely 'unfunny' moments, such as when they find themselves involved in a car crash, or when watching a distressing video? 

In this episode, I introduce the idea that laughter is more...


Jun 9, 2021

Since the last episode (It's been a while), I've done the research on the ways in which people use laughter to help them get through the trials and tribulations of life and I earned a PhD for my troubles. 

I've also lived through a number of life changing challenges, including breaking my spine, and laughter has served...