Bob Mankoff: Anatomy of a New Yorker cartoon

The video explores the nuances of humor, particularly in the context of The New Yorker magazine. It discusses the subjective nature of humor, the process of selecting cartoons, and the concept of 'idea drawings' that require cognitive engagement. The speaker also delves into the idea of benign violation in humor, the challenges of using humor in sensitive contexts, and the importance of incongruity. The video emphasizes that humor is not universal and is heavily influenced by context and audience expectations.

What is the main challenge in creating humor for a wide audience?

• Using complex language

• Making it politically correct

• Avoiding controversial topics

• Ensuring everyone finds it funny

What is the typical outcome for most cartoons submitted to The New Yorker?

• They are archived

• They are revised

• They are rejected

• They are published

What term does The New Yorker use instead of 'cartoon' in their contracts?

• Illustrative humor

• Visual jokes

• Idea drawings

• Comic sketches

What is a key element of humor according to the concept of benign violation?

• It must be universally accepted

• It must be completely okay

• It must be both wrong and okay

• It must be completely wrong

How does The New Yorker approach humor differently after sensitive events like 9/11?

• By using humor to target enemies

• By reflecting humor back on the audience

• By using more provocative humor

• By avoiding humor altogether

What does the concept of bisociation in humor involve?

• Combining ideas from the same frame of reference

• Combining ideas from different frames of reference

• Using humor to criticize others

• Using humor to entertain without thought

What is the role of incongruity in humor according to the speaker?

• It simplifies humor

• It forms the basis of humor

• It makes humor predictable

• It creates a logical narrative

What type of humor does The New Yorker primarily focus on?

• Provocative humor

• Slapstick humor

• Self-reflective humor

• Dispositional humor

What is the significance of context in humor?

• It determines the appropriateness of humor

• It simplifies the humor

• It removes the need for cognitive work

• It makes humor universally funny

What does the speaker suggest about the nature of humor in The New Yorker?

• It is meant to be easily understood

• It avoids controversial topics

• It requires cognitive engagement

• It is purely for entertainment