On the tradition of mathematics of counting-out

Article Abstract:

Henry Carrington in 1888 attempted to trace the origins of "the Counting-Out Rhymes of Children." He faced difficulty establishing connections between counting-out and ancient customs of sacrifice. A survivalist approach produced the assumption that it was a form of lotteries of chance. Counting-out is similar to roulette since both explain an impartial way of choosing. Despite these studies, folklore and mathematics have not resulted in any fruitful collaboration.

Psychological aspects, Children, Rites, ceremonies and celebrations, Counting

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Risky business: Political jokes under repressive regimes

Article Abstract:

Joking is a risky which is not merely socially hazardous but physically dangerous under conditions in which jokers and audiences recognize the perilous circumstances of their humorous collaboration. Such joking is most predictably risky under totalitarian regimes with authoritarian rulers, press censorship, secret police, informers and summary or extra-judicial trials as found in Nazi Germany, the former Soviet Socialist Republics and their socialist allies.

Germany, Evaluation, Wit and humor, Humor, Joking, Humour

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On the future of American folklore studies: a response

Article Abstract:

Folklorists agree that their discipline is in need of better definition and methodology. The papers presented at this conference reflect that unanimity. Folklore's image problem among the public and in the universities stems from its lack of methodology and its practitioners' proclivity for borrowing methods and ideas from other fields. Despite these problems, however, participation in the field continues to grow.

Study and teaching, Folklore

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