Presumption then Arrogance without exception precedes the disrespect thus disregard for the Singular Human Right to Consent or Dissent on all matters, as the latter inseparably manifested by the Peculiar Human Ability to Reason. Covetousness also without exception precedes the same Presumption then Arrogance... To State, as much the Singular Human Right is in constant motion thus operation as determined in thought, as denoted by word, as demonstrated by action regardless the breadth and depth of respect then regard extended versus motion thus operation as determined in thought, as denoted by depth of moderation then restriction self-imposed versus immoderation then facilitation self-roused.

The work includes many of Dr. Eckardt's own fanciful stories, essays, and verses as well as material derived from student malapropisms, from children, and from professional humorists and comedians. Appearing at a time of burgeoning scholarly and popular interest in the domain of humor, Sitting in the Earth and Laughing shows how humor and laughter lie within the realm of human mysteries--together with tragedy, suffering, and love--that can be comprehended and relished.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1882.