Humor and the Law: Laughter as Critique/The Limits of Laughter

In this introduction, we outline several approaches to the role humor might play in relation to the law through the six articles contributed to this special issue and through important and more recent theories that have guided discussions of humor. We take up two aspects in particular when addressing the efficacy of humor: its ability to serve as a diagnostic tool and even cure; and its weaknesses, limitations, and shortcomings. Finally, we outline the specific contributions this special issue makes to the study of humor and the law and some new directions for research into humor and the law around affect, ethics, aesthetics, and politics.