Humor is universal, but what’s funny in one culture might fall flat—or offend—in another. From Monty Python’s surrealism to Japan’s playful absurdity, comedic styles reflect cultural values, history, ...

Obama’s victory has not healed all the nation’s wounds. As far as comedy goes, there is a certain kind of irony that still divides us. To determine which side of the fence you’re on, ask yourself ...