What is fetish humour?
Fetish humour, also known as fetish comedy, is a type of humour that revolves around sexual fetishes. It can be seen in movies, television shows, books, jokes, and even everyday conversation. Fetish humour is often used to make light of taboo topics, such as BDSM, sex work, and kinks. While it may seem like an innocuous way to pass the time, it can actually have serious consequences.
The history of fetish humour
Fetish humour has been around for centuries. In fact, some scholars believe that it dates back to ancient Greece and Rome. The comic playwright Aristophanes wrote several plays that satirized homosexuality and pederasty, which were popular forms of fetishism at the time. In more recent years, fetish humour became more widespread in the United States during the early 20th century. This was due in part to the rise of vaudeville, which featured many performers who specialized in risqué material.
How does fetish humour affect society?
Fetish humour can have both positive and negative effects on society. On one hand, it can help break down social stigmas by making people feel more comfortable talking about taboo topics. For example, a joke about BDSM might make someone feel less ashamed about their own desires. However, fetish humour can also reinforce negative stereotypes about certain groups of people. Jokes about sex workers, for instance, can normalize the idea that they are objects rather than human beings with agency and worth. Additionally, fetish humour can glamorize dangerous or harmful activities, such as choking during sex.
What should you do if you encounter fetish humour?
If you encounter fetish humour, you may feel like laughing along to fit in. But it's important to remember that not everyone finds these jokes funny or appropriate. If you don't want to laugh at a joke, just say so! You don't need to justify your decision or explain why you find the topic offensive. Just move on to another conversation. And if you do find yourself laughing at a joke, ask yourself why. Is it because you agree with the sentiment behind the joke? Or is it because you're uncomfortable with your own sexuality?
Final thoughts on fetish humour
While fetish humour can be entertaining, it's important to remember that it can also be damaging. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes and can encourage unsafe behaviour. Instead of laughing along, try to educate yourself about the issues surrounding fetishes and kinks. You might even start a dialogue with friends about how we can change our society's attitudes towards sex. After all, there's nothing wrong with wanting to experiment - as long as you're safe, consensual, and respectful.