Funny? You just can't teach it

Comic ability is innate, says academic

Comic talent is something you’re either born with or you’re not, claims an academic who specialises in comedy.

Despite the recent boom in the number of comedy courses offering to teach people how to be funny, psychologist Professor Richard Wiseman says it’s not a skill that can't be learned like a language.

‘Comedians will talk about having funny bones,’ said Wiseman. ‘I don't think you ever can actually learn it. I think it is a natural ability.

‘It is very hard to teach somebody to be funnier, to be more light-hearted, because it is a way of looking at the world and if you don't have that, it is a bit like teaching them to be a better artist. It is not really going to happen.’

Wiseman, who will take part in a discussion on comedy at Edinburgh's International Science Festival next month, added that funny people – whether comics or not - enjoyed better personal and professional lives, as they were more likeable.

Tommy Sheppard, of the Stand Comedy Club, said there was some truth in Wiseman’s theory – but that some things could be taught.

He told Scotland on Sunday: ‘I don't think you can teach people wit. That said, you can learn how to express your wit and funniness. There are a lot of tried and tested techniques.’

Published: 21 Mar 2010

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