‘Humour as a Human Right’ delves into the often-overlooked intersection of humour and human rights. This special collection explores humour’s multifaceted role in expressing, challenging, and negotiating individual and collective rights. Its varied contributions bridge disciplinary gaps, drawing insights from fields like Humour Studies, Human Rights Discourse, Philosophy, Literature, Law, Technology, Political Science, History, Sociology, Media Studies, Gender, and Disability Studies.

The originality of this project lies in its comprehensive and collaborative approach, filling a gap in current scholarship. While existing studies treat humour and human rights separately, this collection brings them together, offering a perspective that enriches individual disciplines and contributes to the development of new humanities studies frameworks.

The collection’s societal relevance is evident in its exploration of topics such as humour in paediatric palliative care or zones of war, and its use as a resilience tool by marginalised groups. It not only informs healthcare practices and policymaking but also challenges societal attitudes. On a broader scale, this collection stimulates public discourse, challenging traditional notions of the role of humour in human rights. It not only addresses academic gaps but also holds the potential to make a substantial impact on society, fostering inclusivity and equity.

Editors: Benjamin Nickl (Guest Editor), Rodney Taveira (Guest Editor)


Humour as a Human Right

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Special Collections