Laughing is not as much about humor as it is a bonding and rapport-building phenomenon. Moreover, when we lean toward or touch the other person during laughter, this effect is amplified (It's crucial however that before this leaning-in or touching takes place, there has to be some foundation of good rapport established).
Despite being behind glass this orangutan tried to touch the man who performed the "magic trick"
during his laughter. The orangutan knew the glass was there, yet he instinctively reached to touch him. This nonverbal behavior is deeply ingrained in our brains - and this is a beautiful example of just HOW deep it goes - for this body language is true for humans and other primates.
See also:
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3397: Close Encounter - Kate McKinnon, Cecily Strong, Ryan Gosling - SNL - Body Language
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3028: Chris Rock's (and other Comedians) Body Language Trick that Gets You Laughing Easier
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2887 Derek Jeter, Smiles, Laughter and Body Language Nuance
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2508: Anne Frank, Sincere Smiles and Emotional Comfort
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3229: Amy Poehler, Seth Meyers and a SNL Reunion - REALLY!?! - a Body Language Trick of Comedians
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3389: Vladimir Putin and Barack Obama meet in Paris - Body Language Faux Pas
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3387: Daniel Radcliffe, James McAvoy, The Graham Norton Show and Body Language
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3384: Donald Trump Repeats Controversial 9/11 Claims - Body Language Tells
_____________________________________________________________________________________
