Dr. Jarno Hietalahti is the world's first docent of philosophy of humor. He wrote his doctoral dissertation on the possibility of humane humor based on the thinking of Erich Fromm. Furthermore, he was the first Erich Fromm Fellow at the Tübingen Institute (2014-2016). Jarno lives and teaches in Finland.

In his presentation, Jarno Hietalahti approaches humor as a dynamic concept and examines how Erich Fromm's critical social psychological framework helps us understand the significance of humor for individuals and societies. Drawing from the few hints Fromm has formulated about humor in his written works, he will argue that Fromm's concept of social character is particularly important for understanding the meaning and function of humor.

We are looking forward to welcoming you at the meeting on 10^th of January, 2026 at 3 pm (CET) via zoom.