Multiculturalism and Humor

Abstract

This study explores the evolving nature of ethnic humor within the context of multiculturalism in America. Traditionally marked by prejudiced and racist undertones, ethnic jokes have been a persistent feature in American society, with each immigrant group becoming the subject of mockery by established groups. The paper examines how the current climate of heightened cultural sensitivity has led to the unacceptability of such humor in public discourse. As an illustration, it references Senator Alphonse D'Amato's recent apology for making ethnic jokes about Judge Lance Ito, a Japanese-American magistrate. The study then delves into the emergence and evolution of multiculturalism as a response to discrimination, tracing its roots back to the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s. It discusses the impact of multiculturalism on American culture, particularly in terms of fostering cultural diversity and promoting equality. However, it also acknowledges the criticism levied against multiculturalism for becoming bureaucratically entrenched and overly Puritanical in its pursuit of tolerance and equality. Lastly, the paper explores the paradoxical role humor plays within the context of multiculturalism. While humor can sometimes perpetuate stereotypes and intolerance, it also has the potential to promote understanding and acceptance—key tenets of multiculturalism itself. 

(The abstract and keywords were prepared retrospectively for indexing purposes using AI-assisted tools and editorial review, based on the original article. They did not appear in the original publication.)