We are informed this person has constructed a formidable mystique around himself emphasizing his invincibility and utter fearlessness. In short, this two bit thug has made a career of convincing gullible malcontents he is some sort of god on earth. It was not my fault. I did not do it. Laughter is a multifaceted tool.
Laughter can be an expression of uninhibited merriment.
Laughter can also be an expression of derision, a tool of mockery, a weapon against a coward who would portray himself in the false light of courage to uncritical disciples. It is one thing to consent to sacrifice one's life to a holy cause at the demands of a death defying leader who is himself ready to give his own life should the occasion arise. It is quite the other should one suspect the leader in question runs screaming in terror from any threat to his own well being and safety. I came to an awareness of bin Laden late. His name began to crop up as the U. S. Government's most recent bogey man.