auto-tickling

Updated: May 23, 2025

If deep tickling of the ribs is known to be malicious, it will excite physical resentment and not laughter. Self-tickling rarely causes laughter for the reason that auto-tickling can cause only a known degree of stimulation, so that there results no excessive integration which requires relief by the neutral muscular activity of laughter.

George W. (Washington) Crile - Origin and Nature of Emotions