"Are We Still Allowed to Really Laugh?"

"Are We Still Allowed to Really Laugh?"
With Dr. Alfie Bown

Summary
Comedians have been cancelled, old shows have been taken off streaming platforms and bad jokes have seen people get fired - but has comedy really changed, and why? This talk explores the history of comedy and its edginess and asks whether something is really different today about the way we laugh and joke together and whether there might be some lessons to be learned from the history of comedy.


Bio
Alfie Bown is a Senior Lecturer in Digital Media Culture and Technology at King’s College London, and author of Dream Lovers, Post-Comedy, and The Playstation Dreamworld. His writing appears in The Guardian, New Statesman, Paris Review and beyond.

He is a resident speaker at Pints of Knowledge which is awarded to our best speakers who come and speak every other month. 

Venue:
Big Penny
1 Priestley Way,
London
E17 6AL


Event Running Time:
(we recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 6pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet friendly?

Yes, we allow pets to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.