Humour can be pretty subjective. While it’s great to have a laugh, some topics are best left untouched.
It should go without saying that using someone else to get laughs is a no-go, as is anything that might be offensive, rude, or bigoted. You shouldn’t need to make anyone feel bad just to get a laugh (and chances are, you’ll only get blank stares and some angry responses, anyway). The next time you’re playing stand-up comedian, avoid making jokes about these things.
1. Someone’s physical appearance is not a laughing matter.
Making fun of how someone looks isn’t just mean, it’s hurtful. Whether it’s about weight, height, skin colour, or any other physical trait, these jokes can really damage a person’s self-esteem. Anyway, we can’t control many aspects of our appearance, so it’s best to keep these comments to yourself.
2. Mental health struggles are serious business.
Mental health issues affect millions of people worldwide. Joking about conditions like depression, anxiety, or OCD trivialises real struggles that many face daily. Instead of making light of these challenges, try to be understanding and supportive of those dealing with mental health issues.
3. Someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity should never be the butt of a joke.
Source: Unsplash Everyone deserves respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Making jokes about these aspects of a person’s life can be deeply hurtful and contribute to harmful stereotypes. It’s important to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels accepted for who they are.
4. Disabilities are not a source of amusement.
Source: Unsplash Joking about disabilities, whether physical or intellectual, is insensitive and ableist. People with disabilities face enough challenges in their daily lives without having to deal with hurtful humour. Instead, focus on treating everyone with equal respect and dignity.
5. Racial or ethnic jokes are never acceptable.
Source: Unsplash Humour based on racial or ethnic stereotypes is offensive and can perpetuate harmful prejudices. These jokes can make people feel marginalised and unwelcome. Embrace diversity and celebrate our differences instead of using them as material for cheap laughs.
6. Religious beliefs should be off-limits for mockery.
Source: Unsplash Faith is a deeply personal matter for many people. Making fun of someone’s religious beliefs or practices can be extremely hurtful and disrespectful. Even if you don’t share the same beliefs, it’s important to show respect for other people’s spiritual choices.
7. Domestic violence is a serious issue that shouldn’t be joked about.
Domestic violence affects countless people and can have devastating consequences. Joking about it downplays the severity of the issue and can be triggering for survivors. Instead of making light of it, raise awareness and support those affected by this traumatic experience.
8. Sexual assault and harassment are never funny.
Jokes about sexual assault or harassment can be incredibly harmful, especially to survivors. These comments normalise abusive behaviour and contribute to a culture that doesn’t take these issues seriously enough. Always treat these topics with the gravity they deserve.
9. Someone’s financial situation shouldn’t be a source of humour.
Money troubles can be a significant source of stress for many people. Poking fun at someone’s financial situation, whether they’re struggling or well-off, can be insensitive and hurtful. It’s best to avoid making assumptions or jokes about other people’s finances.
10. Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions, not joke material.
Source: Unsplash Eating disorders are complex mental health issues that can have severe physical and emotional consequences. Joking about them trivialises the struggles of those affected and can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Instead, promote body positivity and healthy relationships with food.
11. Someone’s intelligence or education level should not be mocked.
Everyone has different strengths and abilities. Making fun of someone’s intelligence or education level can be incredibly hurtful and discouraging. Instead of putting people down, try to appreciate the unique skills and knowledge that each person brings to the table.
12. Tragic events or disasters are not appropriate comedic material.
Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other tragic events cause immense suffering and loss. Making jokes about these situations is insensitive to those affected and can reopen emotional wounds. Show empathy and respect for the gravity of these events instead.
13. Someone’s job or career choice is not a punchline.
Source: Unsplash Every job has value, and people often take pride in their work. Mocking someone’s profession or career choice can be demeaning and disrespectful. Instead of making fun of what people do for a living, try to appreciate the diverse roles that keep our society functioning.
14. Age-related jokes can be hurtful to both young and old.
Whether you’re poking fun at someone for being “too old” or “too young,” age-related jokes can be offensive and ageist. Everyone deserves respect, regardless of their age. Instead of making assumptions based on someone’s age, try to appreciate the unique perspectives that people of all ages bring to the table.
15. Family tragedies or personal losses are not fodder for humour.
Loss and grief are deeply personal experiences. Making jokes about someone’s family tragedies or personal losses can be incredibly hurtful and insensitive. Respect people’s pain and offer support rather than trying to find humour in their difficult situations.
