TIMES HONGKONG, JAKARTA – Laughter is something we all do, and it's been a source of fascination for scientists for a very long time. Even though it's something we do a lot, there's still a lot of debate about why we laugh. 

Laughter isn't just a reaction to something funny. It's a complex physical response. When we laugh, our abs tighten up pretty quickly, which changes how we breathe and makes our chest feel a bit tighter.

This makes us make sounds that can range from chuckles to hearty guffaws. Interestingly, this physical response can even lead to sensations of weakness in our legs and mild discomfort due to the exertion of muscles not typically engaged during speech.

Evolutionary Theories

Given that there is no archaeological evidence of laughter, it's tricky to pinpoint its exact origins. However, scientists have put forward a few different theories. One of the most popular ideas is that laughter evolved as a way of communicating with each other among early humans and their primate relatives.

Research shows that many mammals, including rats and primates, make sounds that are similar to laughter when they are playing. This suggests that laughter may have originally been used to communicate friendly intentions and reduce aggression during social play.

Furthermore, studies show that laughter may have developed further in humans as they formed larger social groups and advanced their linguistic capabilities. It became a way of expressing more than just joy. It also helped us convey complex emotions and meanings in conversation.

The Social Function of Laughter 

It's thought that this is linked to our brain's reward systems, which release feel-good neurotransmitters like endorphins during laughter. These chemicals help to reduce stress and promote feelings of happiness, which contribute to overall well-being.

Research shows that people laugh more when they are with others, even if they report similar levels of amusement when alone. This suggests that laughter plays a role in social bonding, strengthening connections between individuals within a group.

It's interesting to note that human laughter differs significantly from the vocalisations of other animals. While lots of other species use sounds mainly for communication during play or mating, human laughter has a wider range of uses.

It can show different emotions, from happiness to nervousness, which is an important part of how we interact with each other. Studies have shown that even babies as young as five months can tell the difference between familiar voices based on laughter alone.

The Health Benefits of Laughter

As well as its social benefits, laughter also has a positive effect on our health. There's evidence that laughing can help keep your heart healthy and boost your immune system. It helps to reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels in the body, making it an effective way to cope with the challenges of life.

So, in a nutshell, laughter is a complex behaviour that's deeply embedded in our biology and social structures. It's not just a reaction to humour, but also a vital way of communicating and connecting with others.

As research continues to unravel the mysteries behind this seemingly simple act, it's becoming clear that laughter plays a crucial role in enhancing our emotional wellbeing and fostering relationships within our communities. (*)