Backwards Quote by Charles Darwin
“Describing laughter: The sound is produced by a deep inspiration followed by short, interrupted, spasmodic contractions of the chest, and especially the diaphragm... the mouth is open more or less widely, with the corners drawn much backwards, as well as a little upwards; and the upper lip is somewhat raised.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Descent of Man, 1871
Laughter involves a deep inhale, rapid chest and diaphragm contractions, and an open mouth with raised lips and drawn‑back corners.
In simple terms: Laughter is a deep breath with quick chest movements and an open mouth.
Key Takeaway
Notice how breath shape affects expression.
Themes
physiology
expression
communication
Mood
joyful
analytical
Type
descriptive
scientific
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- comedy performance
- social bonding
- stress relief
Key Concepts
respiratory dynamics
facial musculature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does breath influence emotional expression?
- When does laughter become inappropriate?
A Different Perspective
Laughter can be suppressed by social norms or health issues.
![“I am quite conscious that my speculations run beyond the bounds of true science…It is a mere rag of an hypothesis with as many flaw[s] & holes as sound parts.” quote by Charles Darwin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/958/charles-darwin-507_bounds_i-am-quite-conscious-that-my-speculation_35382.jpg)
