This stereotype is shared by both men and women—but of course, just because it exists does not mean it is true.
We systematically reviewed all available studies that looked at differences in humor ability, and using the statistical tool called meta-analysis, we calculated the difference.
Humor is a complex phenomenon that involves social, emotional, physiological, cognitive, cultural and evolutionary influences, to name a few.
Humor production ability is a distinct cognitive ability that is largely uncorrelated with appreciation and enjoyment of humor.
We excluded studies where people evaluated their own humor ability, as most people believe they have an above-average sense of humor.
It means that to the best of our knowledge, on average, men appear to have higher humor production ability than women.
That means that over our evolutionary history, men likely had to compete harder with other men to impress women with their sense of humor. »