Accepted Quote by E. B. White
“Every American, to the last man, lays claim to a "sense" of humor and guards it as his most significant spiritual trait, yet rejects humor as a contaminating element wherever found. America is a nation of comics and comedians; nevertheless, humor has no stature and is accepted only after the death of the perpetrator.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The American Character", 1935
Americans cherish humor as a core identity but often reject it when it challenges social norms, only accepting it after the source is gone.
In simple terms: People value humor but silence it when uncomfortable.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and protect humor even when it unsettles.
Themes
identity
humor
social norms
freedom of expression
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
observational
social commentary
When to use this quote
- political satire
- stand‑up comedy
- media commentary
- workplace meetings
Key Concepts
cultural paradox
self-censorship
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your culture treat humor that critiques power?
- When have you accepted humor only after its source was gone?
A Different Perspective
Humor can be suppressed by fear of offending, limiting its social impact.
![“We have reached a situation where a theory has been accepted as fact by some, and possible contrary evidence is shunted aside. [This is] mythology rather than science.” quote by Robert Shapiro](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c31/robert-shapiro-26969_accepted_we-have-reached-a-situation-where-a-theo_19120.jpg)
