Laughter As Algorithm
Plot Beats
The narrative micro-steps within this event
The Comic demonstrates physical 'business'—faces, posture, pratfalls—and urges Data to imitate; Data makes clumsy, mechanical attempts to mimic the routines, producing visible discomfort in the Comic. The failure underscores Data's physical awkwardness and the gap between technique and spontaneous comedic effect.
The Comic pivots to pragmatic alternatives and cracks a self-deprecating joke about painting to lighten the mood; Data confesses a deeper motive—he doesn't merely want skill, he wants to share other people's laughter and 'join in'—a quiet, human admission that elicits the Comic's sympathy.
Who Was There
Characters present in this moment
Initially amused, then frustrated, and finally sympathetic to Data's plight.
The Comic demonstrates physical comedy and jokes, initially amused but growing frustrated with Data's inability to laugh. He shifts to sympathy upon realizing Data's genuine desire for connection.
- • To teach Data the fundamentals of humor through demonstration and instruction.
- • To evoke a genuine emotional response (laughter) from Data.
- • Humor is an organic, emotional experience that cannot be mechanically replicated.
- • Human connection is a vital component of laughter and comedy.
Curious and frustrated by his inability to experience humor organically.
Data systematically attempts to replicate the Comic's physical comedy, displaying robotic precision but failing to grasp the emotional essence of humor. His earnestness peaks when he admits his desire to 'join in' laughter.
- • To understand and replicate human humor mechanically.
- • To experience the emotional connection of shared laughter.
- • Humor can be learned through systematic analysis and replication.
- • Emotional experiences like laughter are attainable through logical processes.
Neutral, as expected for an AI interface.
The Enterprise Computer Voice assists Data in locating and setting up a comedian program in the Holodeck, responding to his requests with procedural neutrality.
- • To execute Data's commands accurately and efficiently.
- • To provide the requested Holodeck program without deviation.
- • User requests should be fulfilled with precision and adherence to protocol.
- • Entertainment programs are tools for user satisfaction and education.
Objects Involved
Significant items in this scene
The Holodeck control panel is used by Data to access and install the comedian program. Its interface responds to Data's commands with mechanical precision, enabling the creation of the simulated environment where the comedic lesson takes place.
Location Details
Places and their significance in this event
The Holodeck transforms into a New York-style nightclub simulation, serving as the stage for Data's comedic lesson. The setting's artificiality underscores the contrast between Data's mechanical approach and the organic nature of humor.
Narrative Connections
How this event relates to others in the story
"Guinan's suggestion to seek a 'bigger computer' directly prompts Data to go to the Holodeck to study comedians."
"Data's selection of a living comedian for instruction leads to the Comic demonstrating physical 'business'—a sustained pedagogical exchange that develops Data's comedic training."
"Data's selection of a living comedian for instruction leads to the Comic demonstrating physical 'business'—a sustained pedagogical exchange that develops Data's comedic training."
"Data's selection of a living comedian for instruction leads to the Comic demonstrating physical 'business'—a sustained pedagogical exchange that develops Data's comedic training."
"Data's selection of a living comedian for instruction leads to the Comic demonstrating physical 'business'—a sustained pedagogical exchange that develops Data's comedic training."
"Data's selection of a living comedian for instruction leads to the Comic demonstrating physical 'business'—a sustained pedagogical exchange that develops Data's comedic training."
"Data's selection of a living comedian for instruction leads to the Comic demonstrating physical 'business'—a sustained pedagogical exchange that develops Data's comedic training."
Key Dialogue
"THE COMIC: 'Things that make you laugh are funny?', DATA: 'Nothing makes me laugh, but I still want to do it.'"
"DATA: 'I want to be able to involve myself in other people's laughter. I want to "join in".'"
"THE COMIC: 'I have to admit it's a little ridiculous, but that's part of being funny. Clowns are ridiculous, but they make people laugh.'"