Many Sitcoms on TV Use Canned Laughter

question 45

Multiple Choice

Many sitcoms on TV use canned laughter. Research has shown that jokes are rated as funnier when they are accompanied by canned laughter than when they are not, even though most people have negative opinions about canned laughter and most people say it is easy to detect canned laughter. Which social influence principle is involved here?

• A) Commitment and consistency
• B) Reciprocity
• C) Social validation
• D) Scarcity
• E) Authority

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Definitions:

Ghost Dance Movement

A spiritual movement that emerged among Native American peoples, which prophesied an end to European American expansion and a revival of the Native American way of life.

Religious Revival

A renewal of religious enthusiasm and commitment within a community or society, often characterized by large public meetings and new spiritual vigor.

Native Americans

The indigenous peoples of the United States, including the mainland and Alaska Natives, with diverse cultures, languages, and histories.

Social Darwinism

Application of Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection to society; used the concept of the “survival of the fittest” to justify class distinctions and to explain poverty.