Question

A. Identify a profession b. In not more than 60 words, describe the "art" and "science" of such profession in (a).

Answer 1

Answer:

Comedy as a Profession is a great example.

Explanation:

The science of it is related to the psychology of what makes people laugh.

If studied, one would realize that there are certain things that are bound to make people laugh (all things being equal). An example is when a person makes fun of themself to an audience.

To explain this, scientists have stated that it is inherent in humans to laugh at the misfortune of others. However, this is just a theory and does not explain why we laugh at other kinds of comedy.

A plausible explanation (which is more recent in the parlance of psychology) is that people also laugh when certain expectations are defied in a very witty manner.

As a professional stand-up comedian, knowing all the rules and tricks is just one part of the coin. Being able to, either by practice or repeated efforts during practice, internalize these principles, practice them and effectively use them is the artistic part of the picture.

There those who are gifted naturally with a principle thought process that elicits laughter from others, would be termed hilarious. However, to make a living out of comedy, one would need to fully understand the principles and practice to deliver them as naturally as possible.

Another paradigm to the art of comedy is that, it has to be very witty. Wit many times may come with an element of suprise... a new angle that was previously "unthought" of.

Cheers!