1Make 'em Laugh Amusing ourselves in the 21st century - But in an uptight politically correct age, do we really know what we should be laughing at? What do NZers find amusing these days? Have NZers lost their sense of humour? Has political correctness stifled our sense of humour? Why is there an absence of political satire? Should there be laughter in the workplace? Do we know how to laugh at ourselves in the new millennium? What do we find funny? What about the effects on our health and well-being? Reporter: Rob Harley Producer: Brett Cammell Assignment looks at the effect of humour in the lives of New Zealanders, how it affects us, how it's evolved, and in particular, how having a good laugh in the workplace can do wonders for employers and employees alike. In an age where political correctness has literally taken over the world, New Zealanders are no longer sure about how to laugh at themselves, their society and their institutions. We're just not sure "what we're allowed to laugh at." Rob Harley treads the fine line on Kiwi humour. Are the glory days of Fred Dagg and Billy T James a thing of the past? Why is it that we find smut so funny? Workplace humour is another issue. There's active research going on at Victoria University, where conversations are analysed, revealing that concepts like humour are conducive to a smooth and harmonious work environment. The programme also has some special and funny moments from two women who have made a great personal business out of impersonating Helen Clark and Jenny Shipley. So while many lament that we don't laugh at ourselves sufficiently, we've also seen the rise of a whole new series of humour genres that allow women, the disabled, ethnic groups and the gay community to tell jokes about themselves that were once taboo. Is laughter really the best medicine? [24/05/01]

2Preview of next week.