阅读练习之ASenseOfHumor

Biologically， there is only one quality which distinguishes us from animals： the ability to laugh. In a universe which appears to be utterly devoid of humor， we enjoy this supreme luxury. And it is a luxury， for unlike any other bodily process， laughter does not seem to serve a biologically useful purpose. In a divide world， laughter is a unifying force. Human beings oppose each other on a great many issues. Nations may disagree about systems of government and human relations may be plagued by ideological factions and political camps， but we all share the ability to laugh. And laughter， in turn， depends on that most complex and subtle of all human qualities： a sense of humor Certain comic stereotypes have a universal appeal. This can best be seen from the world-wide popularity of Charlie Chaplins early films. The little man at odds with society never fails to amuse no matter which country we come from. As that great commentator on human affairs， Dr. Samuel Johnson， once remarked， Men have been wise in very different modes; but they have always laughed in the same way.

A sense of humor may take various forms and laughter may be anything from a refined tingle to an earth quaking roar， but the effect is always the same. Humor helps us to maintain a correct sense of values. It is the one quality which political fanatics appear to lack. If we can see the funny side， we never make the mistake of taking ourselves too seriously. We are always reminded that tragedy is not really far removed from comedy， so we never get a lop sided view of things.