I think humor is used a lot of the time to keep people from getting too close. Humor side-steps and shifts the meaning.

Bruce Nauman’s quote, “I think humor is used a lot of the time to keep people from getting too close. Humor side-steps and shifts the meaning,” reflects his view of humor as a defense mechanism in social interactions. Nauman, an artist known for his work that often explores human behavior and communication, suggests that humor can act as a barrier, preventing people from forming deep or meaningful connections. By using humor, individuals can deflect attention or shift focus away from personal vulnerability, effectively keeping others at a distance emotionally.

The idea that humor “side-steps and shifts the meaning” implies that humor can alter or obscure the true nature of a conversation or interaction. Rather than addressing a difficult subject directly, humor allows people to avoid uncomfortable or intimate topics. This can be seen as a way to protect oneself from emotional exposure, using laughter or jokes to navigate situations without confronting the underlying feelings or issues at play.

Nauman’s perspective on humor also touches on the complexity of human communication. While humor can be an effective tool for easing tension or making light of a situation, it can also prevent honesty and authentic exchange. In this way, humor can be both a shield and a way of manipulating the flow of conversation, making it harder for others to truly connect on a deeper level.

Ultimately, Nauman’s quote suggests that humor, while often seen as an enjoyable or harmless trait, can sometimes be a way for people to maintain emotional distance and avoid the vulnerability that comes with genuine interaction. By recognizing the functional role humor plays in communication, we gain insight into how people use it to navigate relationships and protect themselves from emotional intimacy.