The Science of Dad Jokes
May 26, 2025
Why are dad jokes so painfully funny? Researchers have theories (and yes, they’ve suffered through the puns).
The "Groan Factor"
Dad jokes thrive on predictability. The worse the pun, the louder the groan—which, oddly, brings people together.
Evolutionary Advantage?
Some scientists argue that dads tell bad jokes to prepare their kids for life’s disappointments. Thanks, Dad.
World Record Holder
The longest recorded dad joke session lasted 8 hours. The audience survived, but their will to live did not.
Bonus joke: Why can’t you trust an atom? Because they make up everything.