A Cognitive Study of Humor: A Pragmatic and Sociocultural Approach

Authors

  • Nimra Noor BS Scholar, Department of English, National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad, Faisalabad Campus.
  • Dr. Aniqa Rashid Assistant Professor, Department of English, National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad, Faisalabad Campus.
  • Tuba Latif BS Scholar, Department of English, National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad, Faisalabad Campus.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53057/linfo/2024.6.1.2

Keywords:

Humor, Cognitive Processes, Pragmatics, Sociocultural Influences, Relevance Theory, Incongruity Theory

Abstract

This research conducts a comprehensive examination of humor through a cognitive, pragmatic, and sociocultural lens. Guided by a theoretical framework integrating Relevance Theory, Incongruity Theory, and Script-based Semantic Theory, the study employs a mixed-methods approach including online survey as well as collection of facts from already published articles. All the mentioned theories are interrelated as they provide a multifaceted exploration of humor’s cognitive processes, pragmatic elements, and sociocultural influences. The participant sample for this research is 80 students at the National University of Modern Languages, Faisalabad. Ethical considerations underscore the commitment to respectful research practices. The findings revealed that humor is a pervasive element in Faisalabad's daily life, predominantly manifested through verbal, visual, and situational forms. Notably, preferences for sarcasm and irony were prevalent, though individual responses varied, highlighting the influence of personal cognitive differences. The findings also underscored the embedded nature of humor within cultural norms and its complex role in communication. The study reveals that humor in Faisalabadi society is deeply influenced by cultural contexts and individual cognitive differences, serving as a dynamic tool for social interaction and cultural understanding.

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Author Biographies

Nimra Noor, BS Scholar, Department of English, National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad, Faisalabad Campus.

Nimra Noor is currently pursuing her BS degree in the Department of English at NUML, Faisalabad Campus, Islamabad. Her academic interests are broadly centered around the study of English literature and linguistics, aiming to deepen her understanding and application of English in both theoretical and practical contexts.

Dr. Aniqa Rashid, Assistant Professor, Department of English, National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad, Faisalabad Campus.

Dr. Aniqa Rashid is an Assistant Professor in the Department of English at NUML Islamabad, Faisalabad Campus. With a strong commitment to teaching and research, Dr. Rashid specializes in English literature and linguistics, contributing to academic discourse through her extensive knowledge and expertise in these fields. Her role at NUML involves both teaching upper-level courses and mentoring students pursuing their studies in English.

Tuba Latif, BS Scholar, Department of English, National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad, Faisalabad Campus.

Tuba Latif is currently pursuing her BS degree in the Department of English at NUML, Faisalabad Campus, Islamabad. Her academic interests are broadly centered around the study of English literature and linguistics, aiming to deepen her understanding and application of English in both theoretical and practical contexts.

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Published

2024-03-30

How to Cite

Noor, N., Rashid, D. A., & Latif, T. (2024). A Cognitive Study of Humor: A Pragmatic and Sociocultural Approach. Linguistic Forum - A Journal of Linguistics, 6(1), 16–37. https://doi.org/10.53057/linfo/2024.6.1.2