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Can An Algorithm Discover The Key To Laughter?

By Alex Schmidt

Published January 1, 2013 at 1:43 AM EST

Some web-based companies are trying to use academic studies of humor to write an algorithm for what is funny, and use it to sell an app. Humor, however, is notoriously tough to study.

Alex Schmidt

Stories From This Author

Reflections From A Jew At A Mock-Jewish Restaurant

Alex Schmidt

On a trip to explore her Jewish-Ukrainian roots, one writer made a stop at a controversial Jewish-themed restaurant, where guests are served matzo at every meal and invited to haggle over the check.
Smen Is Morocco's Funky Fermented Butter That Lasts For Years

Alex Schmidt

Like Indian ghee, smen evolved as a way to keep a tasty cooking fat around for a long time. But smen is blessed with a flavor and aroma that's a lot like blue cheese.
Sometimes You Feel Like A Nut; Sometimes You Just Drive One

Alex Schmidt

After graduation, a group of college students landed a nutty job — quite literally. For the next year, they will don the monocle of Mr. Peanut and drive the Planters Peanut Nutmobile.