Humor has historically been tied to the mores of the day. The Yellow Kid was predicated on what people thought was funny about the immigrant Irish. When you're different in a society, you're funny.

Summary

This quote highlights the connection between humor and societal norms throughout history. It mentions how humor, like the portrayal of the immigrant Irish in "The Yellow Kid" comic, often derives from what people find amusing about those who are different. In societies, individuals who deviate from the norm or belong to minority groups often become subjects of humor. This understanding sheds light on how humor can both reflect and perpetuate social biases, emphasizing the role of social context in shaping what is considered funny.

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