Title: Think Sarcasm is Funny? Think Again | Psychology Today
Headings: Think Sarcasm is Funny? Think Again
Clifford N. Lazarus Ph.D.
Think Sarcasm is Funny? Think Again
Is sarcasm really just hostility disguised as humor?

Content: After all, when you come right down to it, sarcasm can be used as a subtle form of bullying —and most bullies are angry, insecure, or cowardly. Alternatively, when a person stops voicing negative comments, especially sarcastic and critical ones, he or she may soon start to feel happier and more self-confident. Also, the other people in his or her life benefit even faster because they no longer have to hear the emotionally hurtful language of sarcasm. Now, I’m not saying all sarcasm is bad. It may just be better used sparingly—like a potent spice in cooking. Too much of the spice, and the dish will be overwhelmed by it. Similarly, an occasional dash of sarcastic wit can spice up a chat and add an element of humor to it. But a big or steady serving of sarcasm will overwhelm the emotional flavor of any conversation and can taste very bitter to its recipient. So, tone down the sarcasm and work on clever wit instead which is usually devoid of hostility and thus more appreciated by those you’re communicating with. In essence, sarcasm is easy (as is most anger, criticism and meanness) while true, harmless wit takes talent.