We like to help the mentally ill We do too THE ATLAS S CIETY by sterilizing and experimenting on them We do too
The humor in the sentence "We like to help the mentally ill We do too THE ATLAS S CIETY by sterilizing and experimenting on them We do too" largely hinges on the concept of irony, a rhetorical device or situation where the outcome is contrary to what was originally expected. The sentence initially leads us to believe that the dialogue engages in praising an empathetic approach towards mentally ill individuals, which is accurately represented through the opening phrase "We like to help the mentally ill."
However, the unexpected twist lies within the continuation of the sentence: “by sterilizing and experimenting on them.” This dramatic change of tone completely contradicts the initial intent. The proposed methods of “help”— sterilizing and experimenting —are viewed as inhumane and unethical in any context, let alone when applied to an already vulnerable group like the mentally ill. This jarring deviation transforms the conversation from seemingly compassionate and understanding to brutal and callous, making the sentence ironic.
Furthermore, the humor is amplified by the repeated affirmation "We do too." This simple phrase in the context creates a bizarre sense of camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for something that is, from a humanitarian perspective, repugnant. This type of humor is often referred to as dark or black humor, deriving amusement from situations that are typically considered serious or taboo.
Then there is the reference to The Atlas Society, named after the novel Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, which has been a source of social and political satire due to the stark contrasts presented in her philosophy of Objectivism. Objectivism essentially advocates for individualism and self-interest. The use of the name in this context can be seen as a satirical commentary on this ideology— "helping" people by exploiting them, in line with self-interest.
Moreover, the fertility and health of mentally ill people—one of the most marginalized groups—are being possibly stripped away under the guise of a supposedly altruistic behavior. This absurdity is what gives this sentence an undercurrent of dark humor. The irony is further intensified by the seemingly well-meaning entities affirming their 'commitment towards helping the mentally ill'. The unveiling of these vicious, imagined 'helping' methods—sterilizing and experimenting— is what evokes a perverse sense of humor.
Lastly, humor often lies in the surprise, in the unexpected. The alternation between these contrasting dialogues, the sudden revealing of uncanny intentions all delivered within a casual conversational tone, instigates irony and dark humor. It's the ridiculousness, the ludicrous inappropriateness of the implied actions that create the incongruity—yielding an ironic humor that leaves the reader in an awkward chuckle or a horrified disbelief. We like to help the mentally ill We do too THE ATLAS S CIETY by sterilizing and experimenting on them We do too
