‘Prank Science’ explores the surprising science and psychology behind harmless practical jokes, arguing that their success stems from a careful balance of surprise, cognitive dissonance, and shared understanding. The book reveals how pranks, often dismissed as mere mischief, are actually carefully engineered social experiments that offer insights into human behavior.
For example, the element of surprise in a prank triggers specific neurological responses, while successful pranks often exploit cognitive biases to create humor.
The book begins by establishing the historical and social context of pranks, then moves to dissecting the psychological mechanisms behind different types of pranks using case studies and experimental psychology. It examines how timing, target selection, and the element of surprise contribute to a prank’s effectiveness.
Finally, the book considers the ethical dimensions of pranking, navigating the line between harmless fun and potentially harmful actions.
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