In the case of incongruity theory, not all instances of incongruity are necessarily humorous and often are distinctly unfunny (Morreall 1987 Martin 1987). Other criticisms of superiority theory point out that humor need not involve feelings of superiority or be derisive in nature (See Morreall 1987 Clark 1987). Superiority theory assumes that feelings of superiority are necessary for such humor, but as Smuts ( 2006) points out, such feelings are a not necessary condition for humor, nor is holding a superior position in social terms vis-à-vis another enough to always engender laughter in humorous situations. One of the common criticisms leveled at the three theories is a lack of unified explanation for all acts of laughter and humor.
Others note that feelings of superiority are not necessary for humor (Smuts 2006) and holding a superior position vis-à-vis another is not enough to always engender laughter. This theory is critiqued by those arguing that not all laughter results from amusement, and not all instances of humor are linked to repressed feelings (Morreall 1987 Clark 1987). This notion was developed by Freud, who argued that humor and the stimulation derived from it result from the release of unconscious repressed thoughts and the redirection of energy that is normally reserved to subdue these thoughts and feelings (Morreall 1987). Relief Theory focuses on the affective qualities of laughter and amusement, such as the physiological release of excess energy in laughter. Supporters of incongruity theory argue incongruity can be enjoyed for its own sake, as a form of aesthetic appreciation (Clark 1987, p. Critics such as Santayana assert that humans, as rational actors, do not have positive reactions to incongruity and the pleasure experienced is to be found in the physical, emotional, and cognitive stimulation and satisfaction from that stimulation (Morreall 1987 Martin 1987). It is this distinction of pleasure separating this form of incongruity from negative results such as confusion and emotional distress. These events entail a sudden shift in psychological state of being, encompassing elements of surprise, all the while maintaining a level of pleasantness at the new situation. Occurrences contradictory to preconceived notions, replete with newness, contrast, inconsistency and surprise, form the basis of amusement and humor (Morreall 1987 Rothbart 1976). Incongruity theory relies on human efforts to create abstract concepts and expected patterns in daily life. This view underscores that humor reinforces social roles promoted by dominant segments of societies, making it clear humor is part of the struggle for and maintenance of power. Hobbes went as far as to note that such behavior was not for great minds, as great minds would only compare themselves with the most capable. Hobbes was cognizant of the power of laughter and by extension, humor) to inflict emotional harm onto others. Traceable to the thinking of Plato and Aristotle, it was formally articulated by Hobbes (Morreall 1987). The idea that humor is a tool used to maintain an individual sense of superiority at individual and societal scales is found in superiority theory.
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