Are You Sarcastic? Here’s Why That’s a Good Thing.
If you’re known for your sharp tongue and biting wit, it turns out that your sarcastic approach to life has a number of perks.
A new study shows that sarcasm is a form of intelligence, and directly correlates with creative thinking. It may not always seem this way, particularly when someone gets offended or fails to understand your joke, but it’s true!
Researchers at the Harvard Business School did a deep dive into sarcasm. They looked at the traits of sarcastic people, and found out how this approach to humor impacts our brains. They discovered that sarcastic people caused more conflict, yes, but also showed “enhanced creativity” and more pronounced abstract thinking abilities. They found that those who use sarcasm frequently are better able to creatively solve problems. In fact, they realized that the human brain has to work harder to understand sarcasm, so your snarky comments are actually serving as a mental workout for the people around you.
They discovered that sarcastic people caused more conflict, yes, but also showed “enhanced creativity” and more pronounced abstract thinking abilities. They found that those who use sarcasm frequently are better able to creatively solve problems. In fact, they realized that the human brain has to work harder to understand sarcasm, so your snarky comments are actually serving as a mental workout for the people around you.
Next time someone looks miffed or confused when you fire off a sarcastic comment, feel free to present the findings of this study to them. You can tell them that they should appreciate the brain calisthenics you just put them through, and then secretly feel a little bit smug when you realize that clearly, they’re not as creative as you are.
Lauren Levine is a freelance writer who has contributed to publications and websites including The Charlotte Observer, U.S. News & World Report, American Way magazine, The Huffington Post, Hello Giggles, Bustle, Thrillist, Thought Catalog, and others.
