more on this theme | more from this thinker
Full Idea
There are amusing buildings, but not amusing rocks and cliffs. If I were to propose a candidate for the formal object of amusement, then the human would be my choice, ...or at least emphasise its centrality.
Gist of Idea
The central object of amusement is the human
Source
Roger Scruton (Laughter [1982], §9)
Book Ref
Scruton,Roger: 'The Aesthetic Understanding' [Methuen 1983], p.163
A Reaction
Sounds good. Animal behaviour only seems to amuse if it evokes something human. Plants would have to look a bit human to be funny.
12169 | Since only men laugh, it seems to be an attribute of reason [Scruton] |
12174 | Only rational beings are attentive without motive or concern [Scruton] |
12170 | Amusement rests on superiority, or relief, or incongruity [Scruton] |
12172 | Objects of amusement do not have to be real [Scruton] |
12173 | The central object of amusement is the human [Scruton] |