What are we allowed to laugh at?

«What Are We Allowed To Laugh At?» is a collection of essays by the Ukrainian culturologist, publicist, translator and founder of the Komubook publishing house Pavlo Shved. This book invites readers to embark on a captivating exploration of dark humor, delving into its depths, examining its ethical implications, and uncovering its significance within society. The author goes beyond mere theoretical discussions, masterfully employing a diverse range of tools, from philosophical musings and psychoanalytical theories to literary citations and examples drawn from popular culture. Although the essays were written at different times and for various occasions, they are united by the author's longstanding fascination with Lacanian psychoanalysis of the Ljubljana School and the ideas of Slavoj Žižek. Pavlo Shved analyzes the works of authors such as Franz Kafka, Samuel Beckett, and Tadeusz Kantor, alongside depictions of dark humor in cinema and other art forms. The author explores the role of humor in political satire, protest movements, and everyday communication. This profound study offers a rich examination of the human psyche, societal norms, and the boundaries of what is considered acceptable.