The Simple and the Complex Nature of Humor and Laughter in Finnish-Chinese Negotiations

Abstract

This paper explores humor and laughter as sites of search for common ground and power positioning in the context of Finnish-Chinese co-operation. It is mainly based on the data obtained by interviewing individuals who work either for local governments in Finland or one of the state agencies responsible for attracting foreign investment. The study uses Positioning theory by Harré (1991) and Politeness theory by Brown and Levinson (1987) when analyzing expressions regarding humor between the Finns and the Chinese. Humor and laughter are seen as integral to co-operation and at times can assist in finding common ground and improving the atmosphere at meetings. At the same time, perceived differences in the sense of humor and the complexities of Chinese ‘face’ may render the use of humor during negotiations difficult. According to interviewees, both sides make adjustments in their humorous expressions for the sake of co-operation. However, power positioning and autonomy may also be asserted.