No Joke: There's Science behind Sarcasm

by Edward G. Guest Blogger

Sarcasm is the art of using irony to mock the other person or convey contempt — it's essentially thinly veiled meanness that uncovers creative benefits. It's easily the highest form of intelligence for both the giver and receiver on either end as it conveys the true meaning while using words opposite that of the literal sense. The more sarcasm you experience through expression or reception, the more creative and more abstractly you'll be able to think.

Regardless, sarcasm should be used in moderation and with care to avoid the poisonous sting of contempt that can harm relationships. But because there's science backing up sarcasm, we'd like to say go ahead, be sarcastic for the following reasons:

Promotes Abstract Thinking

The latest research has forced neuropsychologists to agree with Oscar Wilde's statement, "Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit but the highest form of intelligence." Neuropsychologists now encourage colleagues not to avoid or condemn the use of appropriate sarcasm in the office as it reaps more tremendous benefits. It's a catalyst amongst people who trust each other as it promotes abstract thinking in the expresser and the recipient.

Exercises Brain Muscles

Sarcasm exercises the brain to a greater extent than sincere statements ever could. The brain has to work twice as hard to process the information, translate its 'hidden' meaning, comprehend, and formulate an equally witty response. For this reason, it's a good workout for your brain muscles that significantly reduces the impact of negative feelings — such as that of anger. Problems are dealt with better when framed sarcastically rather than in a plain angry tone.

Healthy Cognitive Function

When someone is snarky, you can easily tell that they demonstrate healthy cognitive function. In comparison, the inability to identify sarcasm could demonstrate diseases such as dementia, schizophrenia, autism, or other health problems that diminish the ability to perceive irony. In a parallel universe, the inability to comprehend sarcasm is because a region of the brain has gone dark — this region is essentially the one that handles the task of decoding hidden meanings. Integrating humor into the insult or the embarrassment is no joke, but balancing it out calls for greater responsibility.

Being Affectionate

Many people believe that sarcasm is a source of disruption in relationships; it can indicate a healthy ability to show affection. This follows the same ideology as teasing the ones we love or care for. However, remember to be kind as what may be seen as playful to some, might turn hostile for others; for example, "I like how you cleaned up your room" is a teasing remark that softens the element of criticism in a loving way to help deliver the message. Those who are sensitive tend to find sarcasm slightly abrasive.

Elicits Confessions

The sarcastic quip prompts individuals to think and respond differently. The what-ifs that continue to take on a negative toll on our lives can be replaced with humor to have a positive impact on us. Think about you telling someone about your job burning you out without having the other hate their job equally. Some clear befits of integrating humor in the workplace include a higher probability of working, lesser burnout, increased work effectiveness, faster recovery from stressful situations.

Escapism

Alternatively, it could also be an easy way to sum the whole of your position in a simple way; for example, someone who has a hard-to-explain designation at a content creation company could just say, "Basically, I sell words." Speaking fluently in sarcasm also makes you a better friend as your blunt and honest nature will continue to make them less combative in a distressful situation. Researchers have found that since sarcasm has become more widely accepted, nearly all conversations enjoy the air of humor.

Winning Arguments

Competitiveness and a sarcastic tone go hand in hand. When you utilize sarcasm as your primary tool, it gets easier to get the last word on the feat because it exposes strengths and weaknesses. When someone fails to deflect the effectiveness of your wit, they shall quietly leave assessing their inadequateness to keep up with the argument. All in all, sarcasm takes the opportunity from your opponent to respond with even the simplest purpose or reason. Not to forget the 'sauce' sarcastic people bring to the gathering because humans lack the capability to experience two emotions together — if you're having a hearty laugh due to the subtle sarcasm integrated into the conversation, it's nearly impossible to feel pressured under the same instance.

"My level of sarcasm has extended to the point where I don't even know if I'm kidding anymore or not," says Reid Champagne (rightly the Sultan of Satire). In literature, satire is a genre that holds human nature up for criticism as it uses exaggeration, humor, and irony.

Follow Reid Champagne, an American writer, humorist, comedian, and author known for his work, the An American Walkabout. He talks about long-distance relationships and drafts the funniest travel books while living the best days of his life with just a hint of sarcasm. Reid and his wife, Carol, are currently headed to Iceland for their first summer vacation as a couple after their paper marriage.