An international summer school looking at humour and laughter will be hosted by Sheffield University this week.
Psychologists, sociologists, computer scientists, and academics studying culture and politics will all give lectures on what humour is and how it works.
Dr Elena Hoicka, from the university psychology department, said: “Humour is so important in everyday life.
“It allows us to bond with friends, think in more open and creative ways about the world, and deal with stress, among many of its uses.”
Topics will include how children develop their sense of humour, historical and cultural perspectives on humour and sociological perspectives on comedy.
The event has attracted students and academics from across the world.