Question: Why do we laugh?

Claire Donald answered on 19 Jun 2018:

Hopefully because someone has told a hilarious joke!

Researchers believe that once upon a time, laughing signalled relief after the passing of danger- like avoiding a predator. They also believe that it helps to build and strengthen bonds in social groups. Its been suggested that our brains respond to laughter and are triggered to produce more laughter which is why laughter can be infectious! Other species, like dogs and chimpanzees have been shown to make unique sounds in response to pleasure which is their equivalent of laughter.