In a curious move, politicians in Japan’s Yamagata prefecture have passed a law encouraging citizens to laugh at least once a day, citing research from a local university that highlights laughter’s potential health benefits in reducing the risk of heart attacks.
The legislation, proposed by the Liberal Democratic Party which holds a majority in the assembly, emphasizes that residents should recognize the positive impacts of laughter on both mental and physical well-being. It aims to promote habits that contribute to better health outcomes through daily laughter.
However, the law has sparked controversy among critics who argue that such matters should not be legislated by politicians.
Toru Seki, an assemblyman from the Japan Communist Party, voiced concerns over the law, asserting that laughter is a personal choice and should be protected as part of individual freedoms guaranteed by the constitution.
