Bernat Castany, philosopher: "Humor breaks down any hierarchy and makes us all the same"

Bernat Castany, a Spanish philosopher based in Barcelona, has released his latest philosophical work titled Una filosofía de la risa (A Philosophy of Laughter). Published by Anagrama in 2026, the book explores the role of humor in human society, arguing that laughter serves as a powerful equalizer, breaking down social hierarchies and fostering shared understanding among individuals. The work follows his previous book Una filosofía del miedo (A Philosophy of Fear), which examined the psychological and existential dimensions of fear. Castany’s new book traces the historical significance of laughter, highlighting its presence in ancient Greek and Roman cultures, as well as during the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods. He notes that while laughter was once regarded as a legitimate method of philosophical inquiry, it has largely been overshadowed in modern discourse. This shift, he argues, is partly due to political factors. He observes that right-wing and far-right politicians have increasingly used aggressive, sarcastic, and parodic forms of comedy to gain public attention and influence. These tactics, he suggests, have allowed such groups to dominate the public sphere in ways previously reserved for more progressive or left-leaning movements. In response to this dynamic, Castany emphasizes the importance of reclaiming humor as a tool for social equality rather than as a weapon of aggression. He distinguishes between humor and satire, suggesting that the former is more inclusive and constructive. According to him, humor acknowledges the shared imperfections and contradictions of all humans, thereby creating a sense of unity. “Humor always appeals to the intelligence of the other,” he says, referencing philosopher Raúl Gabás. This perspective aligns with the idea that laughter can celebrate our collective capacity for understanding and resilience. Castany acknowledges the value of satirical publications such as Mongolia and El Jueves, which employ biting wit and irony to critique societal norms. However, he maintains that these forms of humor should not replace the broader, more joyful aspects of laughter. Instead, he advocates for a philosophy of humor that encourages inclusivity and mutual respect. His argument is rooted in the belief that laughter, when used constructively, enhances individual and group power by dismantling rigid structures of authority. To illustrate his point, Castany offers an example involving the use of humor to challenge harmful beliefs. He describes how mocking superstitions that instill fear can empower communities by undermining oppressive ideologies. Similarly, he points to the historical practice of Enlightenment thinkers who used parody and satire to challenge authoritarianism and promote intellectual freedom. For Castany, the key difference lies in the tone and intention behind the laughter: it must be one that uplifts rather than divides. The philosopher also touches upon the psychological mechanisms behind laughter, citing theories that suggest we laugh because we feel superior or intelligent in a given moment. He explains that when we understand a clever wordplay or witty remark, we experience a sense of personal accomplishment. This form of laughter, he argues, is not just a reaction to humor, it is a celebration of our cognitive abilities and our ability to engage with others in a playful yet meaningful way. Ultimately, Castany calls for a return to a more holistic view of humor, one that recognizes its potential to bridge divides and foster solidarity. He believes that by embracing laughter as a universal language, societies can move toward greater empathy and understanding. As he concludes, the essence of his work is clear: humor, when practiced thoughtfully, has the power to unite rather than separate.