The article explores why individuals, even those highly ticklish, do not laugh when they attempt to tickle themselves. Multiple theories have been proposed without consensus, leading to confusion among scholars. The article introduces the Mutual Vulnerability Theory of Laughter, positing that laughter arises from a sense of vulnerability, often triggered by social interaction or empathy. Self-tickling lacks this necessary element of vulnerability, explaining why it fails to produce genuine laughter, even among the most sensitive individuals.
A new theory of laughter suggests that self-tickling won't generate a sense of vulnerability, necessary for true laughter to occur.
Despite many theories over the years, scholars are still puzzled why tickling oneself doesn't elicit genuine laughter.
Mutual Vulnerability Theory underscores that laughter necessitates a feeling of vulnerability, which self-tickling lacks.
Children and great apes can initiate tickling, implying that laughter is more complex than a simple reflex.
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