Humour and evolution

[Qilue]

Originally posted by Whaleboy
I'm not sure about that, it varies so much. For some girls, a guy who's artistic and expressive is a big +ve. I think you have a point about it being a "generally attractive quality" and perhaps a measure of an individuals ability to cope with difficult situations but is that something that is a result of society, or a result of genetics?

Remember that which is considered "attractive" is changed by society. In neolithic times, a beard (a sign of maturity) and a strong scent of male pheremones (read B.O.) would be a lure for women.

Of course, it's been over 6000 years since linux geeks were considered to be sex gods

Actually, back in neolithic times, the most attractive man was the front runner to be the next chief.

Surely some of you didn't think Monica's attraction to Bill was for his sax play? (not a type :P)

[johncmcleod]

Yeah, I'd have to agree that humor is just an advanced social skill, and social skills are evolutionarily desirable. However, I don't think humor is an instinctively attractive trait. People like to laugh, and so it makes perfect sense that people want to be with people who are funny. I like to have friends that are funny because they are fun to be around. I'd like a girl to be that way for the same reason, however, I'd like more a girl who actually thinks I'm funny because I like it when someone thinks I'm funny.