I’ve recently published a book describing the first truly comprehensive theory of laughter. WHY WE LAUGH: A NEW UNDERSTANDING reveals the essential qualities that make some thing or event appear amusing. It explains why we spend so much time and energy soliciting the laughter of others; why we are attracted to those who inspire our own; and why the laugh response varies among individuals and cultures, as well as over the course of an individual’s lifetime. The theory offers new insights into laughter’s most probable evolutionary origin. And it answers difficult questions pertaining to the ridiculing humor of bullies, laughter’s contagious quality, our sense of humor, and what laughter says about us—-both as individuals and as a species.

To find out more, see http://www.whywelaughbook.com

The Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor is an international organization dedicated to supporting our members as they advance the benefits of laughter and humor. AATH spreads the message that humor and laughter do have a place in creating healthier, more effective environments in which to live and work and play! The five primary “communities” served by AATH are; Health & Wellness, Seniors & Aging, Education, Spirituality & Faith Communities, and Business. AATH members includes doctors and nurses, researchers, caring clowns, psychologists, therapists, social workers, teachers, administrators, clergy, expert speakers and authors, and a wide variety of businessmen and women.

A real benefit of AATH is that it provides an updated research base for members through our newsletter. Our conference is DYNOMITE and will be a cruise from San Diego in January 2008. AATH is cruising full steam ahead toward the capstone event of our 20th anniversary celebration! From January 31 to February 4, 2008, Carnival’s “Elation” will be our “AATH Laugh Boat!” We would love to have you join us for our celebration.

Check us out at http://www.aath.org