The study, conducted by researchers at Aberystwyth University, analysed the comic creativity of over 1,200 twins — both identical and non-identical. Each participant was asked to write funny captions for cartoons, allowing scientists to assess their humour skills
In a surprising twist for lovers of dad jokes and stand-up comedy alike, a new study has revealed that a person’s sense of humour isn’t inherited from their parents. Unlike traits such as intelligence or eye colour, comedic ability appears to be shaped entirely by environment, not genetics.
The study, conducted by researchers at Aberystwyth University, analysed the comic creativity of over 1,200 twins — both identical and non-identical. Each participant was asked to write funny captions for cartoons, allowing scientists to assess their humour skills.
Interestingly, researchers found no significant difference in comedic ability between identical twins, who share all their genes, and non-identical twins, who share only about half. This suggests that shared genetics do not influence one’s capacity for humour.
Lead researcher Dr. Gil Greengross said the findings challenge long-standing beliefs about inherited cognitive abilities. “Despite humour’s importance, relatively little is known about how we develop our sense of humour or why one sibling can be funny and another not,” he said.
“Our finding that comic talents are not inherited is surprising, as it contradicts most research on the heritability of cognitive traits such as creativity and mathematical skills. So, it’s really fascinating,” Dr. Greengross added.
He cautioned, however, that the study is the first of its kind, and further research is needed to confirm the findings. “These results should be interpreted with caution,” he said. The study is likely to provide comfort to those haunted by a parent’s corny puns, and inspiration for aspiring comedians worried they didn’t inherit the funny gene.
Ultimately, the research hints that humour may be more a product of life experiences, social influences, and individual personality than something passed down in our DNA. For now, it seems being funny is less about your family tree — and more about your environment.
