Title: The Surprising Benefits of Sarcasm - Scientific American
Headings: The Surprising Benefits of Sarcasm
The Surprising Benefits of Sarcasm
Sarcastic comments boost creativity, a study finds
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Content: The Surprising Benefits of Sarcasm - Scientific American
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The Surprising Benefits of Sarcasm
Sarcastic comments boost creativity, a study finds
By Francesca Gino on November 17, 2015
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Instead of avoiding sarcasm completely in the office, the research suggests sarcasm, used with care and in moderation, can be effectively used and trigger some creative sparks. Credit: ©iStock
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“Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit but the highest form of intelligence,” wrote that connoisseur of wit, Oscar Wilde. Whether sarcasm is a sign of intelligence or not, communication experts and marriage counselors alike typically advise us to stay away from this particular form of expression. The reason is simple: sarcasm expresses the poisonous sting of contempt, hurting others and harming relationships. As a form of communication, sarcasm takes on the debt of conflict. And yet, our research suggests, there may also be some unexpected benefits from sarcasm: greater creativity. The use of sarcasm, in fact, promotes creativity for those on both the giving and receiving end of sarcastic exchanges.