The nation was at unrest. Goodman was part of a multiracial, multinational team to take a look at humor and creativity as tools for change. Since Goodman's first trip, Nelson Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and elected president of South Africa. Goodman made his second trip to South Africa in 1998. The interest in humor is a sign of the times.
Companies see a dose of humor as a remedy to reduce tensions and motivate workers.
On his way to the hospital where his father was to undergo surgery, author and educator Joel Goodman shared a hotel courtesy van with the anxious relatives of several patients. The driver began telling his stressed-out passengers a few jokes. In that five-minute ride he taught us that humor can relieve our stress. The surgery was successful, and Goodman was so moved by his experience that he researched laughter's power.