Baby Laughing Hysterically at Ripping Paper (Original)

This video earned its unprecedented fame back in 2011, yet it never fails to crack me up. Baby humor is timeless and can always put a smile on my face no matter my mood. In the video, a dejected father is seen ripping up a job rejection letter, which for some unknown reason, sends his 8 month old son into hysterics. The reason for which we find such great amusement in baby laughter is rather unknown, however, it could be one of a few. Most people would simply explain their pleasure by pointing out the cuteness of the baby. Admittedly, the baby is adorable, but the reason for our laughter could be much deeper. It could be attributed to the incongruity theory of humor. Most of us wouldn't expect someone to laugh at his or her parent's failure. The father's anger about being rejected and the baby's hysterical laughter are two incongruous events. The baby's reaction catches us off guard, which then brings on the laughter. One may also find this funny because the baby is clearly oblivious to his father's feelings.