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About this quote

What does it mean?
This warns against sharing humor with those who lack it. Without shared humor, jokes become weapons used to criticize or attack.
In plain terms
Don't make jokes to people who don't get humor.
What can you take from it?
Humor requires a shared understanding to work safely.

Where it applies

  • making a joke
  • socializing with strangers
  • group conversation

Putting it to work

  • reading the room
  • choosing the right audience
  • avoiding conflict

Questions to consider

  • Who is safe to joke with?
  • Can humor be dangerous?

Another view

It oversimplifies how humor functions in all contexts.

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